25 best Vans Checkerboard sneakers

Vans Checkerboard sneakers

Vans is recognized as arguably the quintessential skater shoe brand of our time. Back in 1966, siblings James and Paul Van Doren started a small shop located in Anaheim, California. Their vision was to make shoes that display minimal style but filled with features for skaters and casuals. As one of the first Vans sneakers released to the public, the Vans style #98 sneaker became an integral part of its success that still stands up to this day.

The “Vans style #98,” later known as the Vans Slip-On, was released in 1977. The design quickly became famous for its hassle-free slip-on aspect and laidback design. Steve, the son of PauStevel Van Doren, observed that youngsters and skaters that wear the Vans Slip-On are customizing it. They used black pens to color the midsole of their Vans sneakers and draw checkerboard patterns. Realizing this trend, Steve applied the pattern to the canvas of the silhouette. Through this, the Vans Checkerboard was born.

As decades go by, the checkerboard pattern has become one of the trademarks of Vans, similar to the elephant pattern on the Jordan brand. It spawned a collection of its own, as it resonated well with the consumers. Below we listed some of the exceptional Vans Checkerboard sneakers and other relative topics. The price and size availability of all the Vans Checkerboard shoes mentioned here may not always be accurate.  Also, all sizes are in US sizing.

Notable Vans Checkerboard shoes

1. Vans Checkerboard Authentic

The Vans Authentic series has been one of the brand’s top-tier collection due to its modest yet versatile silhouette. Previously known as Style #44, there has been a multitude of versions and collaborations that are attributed to it. The public's clamor for the Authentic skyrocketed when it was featured with the checkerboard pattern in the movie Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Since then, it has been a staple casual shoe for many due to its budget-friendly price and timeless style.

• Regular price: $50
• The Vans Checkerboard Authentic is available in men’s sizing, from 6 to 13. Ladies could also sport this low-top, but has to order 1.5 sizes down from their regular.
• Colorways such as Black / White / Gum and Pewter / Marshmallow are popular with the shoppers.

2. Vans Checkerboard Slip-On Pro

Design-wise, the Checkerboard Slip-On Pro is pretty much consistent with its original version, except for the Duracap reinforcement rubber underlays and UltraCush HD sockliner. Because of these upgrades, this model offers more durability and support compared to its siblings. Whether on skates or during long walks, several wearers attested that this low-top delivers with flying colors.

• Regular price: $60
• The Vans Checkerboard Slip-On Pro is available for both men and women. 6.5 to 13 are the sizes for men while 5 to 14.5 for women. The majority of its wearers claimed that its sizing is accurate.
• Some of its color options are Black / White and Adriatic Blue / White.

3. Vans Checkerboard Old Skool

Initially marketed for skaters in the 70s, the Old Skool was introduced under the name Style 36. Vans didn't foresee that this low-top skateboarding footwear would later become a staple in casual fashion for both men and women. The Old Skool features a minimal but versatile style, which makes it a favorite among skaters and casuals who are looking for a dependable everyday shoe. One of its versions, the Vans Checkerboard Old Skool, has the suede material on the heel, toecap, and the tongue for additional durability.

• Regular price: $50
• The Vans Checkerboard Old Skool is available in men’s sizes from 3.5 to 13. Ladies have to deduct one size and a half from their regular measurement to get the best possible fit.
• The colorways Black / Expresso and Pewter / Marshmallow seemed to be favored by a lot of shoppers.

4. Vans Checkerboard SK8-Hi

The SK8-Hi features well-celebrated design elements from the vintage Old Skool such as the trademark waffle sole and the blend of canvas and leather upper. It is considered more compatible for skating in contrast to the Authentic and the Slip-On due to its high-top construction, added stitching, and enhanced padding. One of its signatures is the leather jazz stripe which is situated along the heel and tongue. The Checkerboard SK8-Hi is among its celebrated reiterations.

• Regular price: $65
• Men and women can sport the Vans Checkerboard SK8-Hi. Sizes for men start from 6 to 13 while females can have theirs from 5 to 14.5.
• The Black / White is the most popular color option.

5. Vans Checkerboard Old Skool Lite

The Old Skool is among the vintage silhouettes of the brand that was first introduced in 1977. One of its versions, the Vans Checkerboard Old Skool Lite, is designed with a sturdy toe cap to withstand strenuous movements. It has a high-quality padded collar for additional foot support. Many of its wearers have complimented this low-top's durability. It is one of the recommended Vans checkerboard skate shoes for women because of its slim construction.

• Regular price: $65
• This model is offered for both men and women. Gentlemen can order a pair from 6.5 to 13 and ladies could get the Vans Checkerboard Old Skool Lite from 5 to 14.5.
• Notable color options are Black / White and Baby Blue / True White.

6. Vans Checkerboard Authentic Platform 2.0

Platform versions of the Vans all-timers, notably Old Skool, Authentic, and SK8-Hi, has resonated well with the consumers. One of them is the Checkerboard Authentic Platform 2.0, which could be worn for every casual event or everyday activities. It has a sturdy canvas upper that features the checkerboard pattern, metal eyelets, and the ever-reliable rubber waffle outsoles.

• Regular price: $55
• Similar to several Vans footwear, the Vans Checkerboard Authentic Platform 2.0 looks great on both men and women. It is available in women’s sizes from 5 to 11.5. Men need to add one and a half size to their regular sizing to compensate.
• Fab colorways are Medieval Blue / True White and Racing Red / True White.

7. Vans Mix Checker Old Skool

Released in 2018, the Old Skool Mix Checker design boasts a vintage silhouette and an iconic design. It has a balanced appearance that showcases small and large checkers on its upper. The Jazz Stripe on the lateral sides divides the checker patterns. Most of its wearers praised the design nuances of this low-top.

• Regular price: $60
• The Vans Mix Checker Old Skool comes in unisex sizing, ranging from 3.5 boys/5.0 women up to 13.0 men/14.5 women.
• The Black / White is the only color option.

8. Vans Primary Check Old Skool

One of the modern updates of the classic Old Skool is the Vans Primary Check Old Skool. This low-top features a suede and canvas upper with checkerboard pattern that gives a distinguished look. Since its release, the Primary Check Old Skool became a vintage footwear thanks to its style, reinforced toecaps, and padded collars.

• Regular price: $60
• The Vans Primary Check Old Skool is offered in men’s sizes, from 3.5 to 13. Women could also order it by reducing a size and a half from their normal measurement.
• A couple of its colorways are Racing Red / White and Black / White.

9. Vans Cherry Checker Old Skool

Being one of the brand's signature classics, the Old Skool has been reiterated countless times. Among its recent versions is the Vans Cherry Checker Old Skool. Its upper showcases the timeless checkerboard pattern with cherry illustrations all across it. The rubber Duracap on the toe's edge and the double stitching at the high-abrasion areas offer durability. A significant number of its users mentioned that the Cherry Checker Old Skool is a comfortable shoe that can be utilized for all-day walking.

• Regular price: $60
• The Vans Cherry Checker Old Skool is offered for both women and men. Ladies sizing ranges from 5 to 11.5. Males could have theirs from 3.5 to 10.
• It is only available in the Black / Gum colorway.

10. Vans Checker Floral Old Skool

Among the latest Old Skool version is the Vans Checker Floral Old Skool. It showcases the checkerboard pattern at the signature Sidestripe with butterfly, cherry and floral embroidery on top of it. Similar to the majority of its siblings, it has a sturdy canvas and suede upper. It also has re-enforced toecaps to sustain repeated wear while padded collars are there for support and flexibility. The trademark rubber waffle outsole delivers grip and traction.

• Regular price: $65
• The Vans Checker Floral Old Skool is available in both men's and women's sizing. Men's sizing starts from 6 to 10 while ladies can get it from 5 to 11.5.
• The Black colorway is currently the only available option.

11. Vans Checker Flame SK8-Hi

Released in 2018, the SK8-Hi Checker Flame upper exhibits the timeless SK8-Hi with a blend of white flames overlays and the checkerboard pattern. Its trademark upper, canvas and suede never gets out of style. The iconic Vans Sidestripe is made of leather. On its ankle collar, the triple stitching adds distinction while the cotton drill lining and die-cut EVA insert provides additional comfort. Some of its skater wearers mentioned that this high-top delivers great board feel.

• Regular price: $65
• Like the majority of the shoes listed here, the Vans Checker Flame SK8-Hi is available for both ladies and males. Size range starts from 5 to 14.5 for women while 3.5 to 13 for men.
• The Classic White / True White is so far the only available colorway.

12. Vans Multi Checker Era Pro

The Multi Checker Era Pro is a modern take on a Vans classic, which is updated for exceptional performance. It showcases a 10 oz canvas upper with the checkerboard print. The UltraCush HD sockliner and single-wrap foxing tape give outstanding cushioning while securing the foot close to the board. For grip and traction to be possible, it exhibits the original Vans rubber waffle outsole. Additionally, the Pro Vulc Lite construction provides outstanding board feel and flexibility.

• Regular price: $60
• Sizes for the Vans Multi Checker Era Pro are available for both men and women. Men's sizing starts from 6.5 to 13. Females sizes range from 8 to 14.5.
• There is only one color option so far, the Dress Blues / Port Royale.

13. Vans Mega Check UltraRange Gore

The Vas Mega Check UltraRange Gore features a hassle-free wear with its slip-on construction. This footwear has a sock-fit bootie construction which delivers an elevated fit. Its upper consists of a blend of gore strap, textile, and synthetic combined with the checkerboard pattern. The Mega Check UltraRange Gore also showcases an enhanced UltraCush midsole which offers the optimal cushioning and lightweight comfort. It is constructed with glues and water-based ink.

• Regular price: $95
• Sizes for both males and women are offered for the Vans Mega Check UltraRange Gore. Sizes range from 5 to 14.5 for women while 7 to 13 for men.
• The Black / White is the only color option so far.

14. Vans Checkerboard Style 205

Offered only in the brand's official site, the Checkerboard Style 205 is a low top lace-up footwear that features 6 oz canvas upper. The padded collars deliver support and flexibility while the rubber waffle outsole is there for traction.

• Regular price: $60
• The Vans Checkerboard Style 205 is offered in men’s and women’s sizes. 6.5 to 13 for men while 8 to 14.5 for ladies.
• Currently, the Black / True White is the choice of color.

Other Vans shoes with the checkerboard pattern

These are sneakers that do not have the checker/checkerboard on its name but features the signature pattern.

1. Vans Gum Block Slip-On

One of the recent versions of the timeless Slip-On is the Vans Block Classic Slip-On. Most of its materials and design are similar to many Checkerboard Slip-On sneakers, except for the two-toned midsole and elastic side accents.

• Regular price: $55
• The Vans Gum Block Slip-On can be ordered in men’s and women’s sizes. Males could have it from 6.5 to 13. For women, it ranges from 5 to 14.5.
• The colorway’s name is Checkerboard Black / White, which is the only option for now.

2. Vans Hi Standard LL DX

The HI-Standard Linerless DX Snowboard Boot is a new and innovative shoe that is designed for the streets. Despite its rigid appearance, the upper's volume is reduced, which results in a lighter weight. Exceptional traction is guaranteed due to the V1 Waffle Lug outsole. Its lightweight build delivers a skate-like feel, while also giving impressive cushioning and support features.

• Regular price: $149.95
• The Vans Hi-Standard LL DX is offered in men’s sizes from 7 to 13. It is one of the exclusive Vans checkerboard shoes for men.
• Black / Checkerboard is currently the only color option.

3. Vans Golden Coast Authentic

The Vans Golden Coast Authentic is a modest low-top shoe that features the iconic checkerboard pattern. Its materials and style are consistent with the original Vans Checkerboard Authentic, but with a slimmer profile.

• Regular price: $55
• The Vans Golden Coast Authentic is offered for both males and females. Sizes start from 6.5 to 13 for men and 5 to 14.5 for ladies.
• It is available in one colorway, Black / White Checker.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Which events or occasions that wearers can use Vans Checkerboard Slip-On shoes?

For every casual workday, going to the mall, summer activities, or just doing everyday errands, Vans Checkerboard shoes delivers style, comfort, and durability.

2. Where to buy Vans Checkerboard Slip-On sneakers?

Probably the easiest way to look for Checkerboard skate sneakers from Vans is via its official site. Some major retailers also have them, but it is recommended to check first the Vans website.

3. How to clean Vans checkerboard shoes?

Here are the steps to appropriately clean your Checkerboard sneakers:

1. Remove dirt by using a soft brush or cloth.
2. Make a solution out of laundry detergent and warm water.
3. Dip the soft brush or old toothbrush in the solution and start scrubbing the shoe’s surfaces gently.
4. Utilize a soft cloth soaked in warm water to wipe the shoe of the soapsuds.
5. Dry the shoe via room temperature.

4. When did the checkerboard pattern become popular on Vans shoes?

Its mainstream popularity solidified when Sean Penn’s character Spiccoli featured the Checkerboard Slip-On in the movie Fast Times at Ridgemont High.

5. Do Vans checkerboard sneakers fit true to size?

For the most part, the sizing of these sneakers is accurate. Being aware of the return policy is recommended, just in case that the sizing of the shoe you purchased is off.

6. How to know if the Vans checkerboard skate shoes are authentic?

Probably the most accurate way to know if the shoe is fake or not is by reading the barcode using a smartphone. There are many barcode reader apps available that can scan the barcode by using the phone’s camera. If there is no result, most likely the shoe is fake.

7. Is it ok to wear men's Vans checkerboard skate shoes with no socks?

While it is a matter of preference, wearing socks is highly recommended. By wearing socks, wearers could avoid sweaty feet and possible dirt on the insole. If you want to appear sockless, going for invisible socks is the way to go.

8. Is there a difference between men’s and women’s sizes for Vans checkerboard shoes?

Mostly, all Vans shoes are unisex. Men's sizes are smaller by one and a half when compared to the women's version.

9. Which clothing can be paired with men's checkerboard Vans shoes?

Regarded as one of the most versatile patterns seen in shoes, practically any casual attire imaginable can be paired with Vans shoes that showcases the checkerboard pattern. Pairing it with a plain colored shirt and denim jeans is probably the easiest and the most common way to sport these sneakers.

10. Are Vans shoes vegan?

There are many shoes from Vans that are considered vegan. Some examples are Classic Authentic Canvas, Classic Slip-On Canvas, and Custom Slip-On.

Author

Danny McLoughlin

Danny is a sneakerhead turned sneaker industry expert that believes a good outfit begins from the feet up. His aunt currently isn't speaking to him for wearing a pair of kicks at his cousin's wedding. He spends most of his time trying to keep on top of the latest releases, hitting up his contacts and doing what needs to be done to secure his next pickup. Danny has been featured in prestigious publications such as The Washington Post, The Irish Times, Footwear News and the like.

daniel@runrepeat.com