Hey guys! Ever wondered if those sweet Vans Old Skools you're eyeing are the real deal? With so many fakes floating around, it's super important to know what to look for. Don't stress, though! This guide will walk you through all the key things to check so you can rock your Vans with confidence. Let's dive in!

1. Overall Look and Shape

When doing a legit check on Vans Old Skool, start with the overall appearance of the shoe. Counterfeit Vans often miss the mark when it comes to getting the shape and silhouette right. Authentic Vans Old Skools have a distinctive, streamlined profile. Fake pairs might look clunky, too rounded, or oddly shaped. Pay close attention to how the shoe looks from the side, front, and back. Look for smooth curves and clean lines that define the classic Old Skool aesthetic.

Another vital aspect is the sole's construction. Authentic Vans have a seamlessly bonded sole to the upper part of the shoe. Check for any visible gaps, excess glue, or unevenness. These are immediate red flags. Also, the angle of the toe box matters. It should have a gentle upward curve. Fakes sometimes have a toe box that's too flat or too sharply angled. The heel counter should be firm and supportive, maintaining its shape even when you press on it. In summary, an authentic Old Skool should have a sleek, well-proportioned shape that reflects Vans' commitment to quality craftsmanship. Remember, the devil is in the details, so take your time and carefully assess the overall look and shape.

2. The Sidestripe (Jazz Stripe)

The sidestripe, often called the "jazz stripe," is an iconic element of the Vans Old Skool. Inspect this stripe meticulously. On authentic Vans, the sidestripe is cleanly and evenly stitched onto the shoe's upper. The edges should be smooth and consistent, without any frayed threads or uneven lines. Counterfeit versions often have poorly attached stripes with sloppy stitching or jagged edges.

Another critical aspect is the stripe's material and texture. The sidestripe should be made of high-quality leather or a durable synthetic material that feels substantial to the touch. Fake stripes might use cheaper, thinner materials that look and feel flimsy. The color of the stripe should also be consistent and match the authentic Vans color palette. Check the stripe's placement. It should be positioned correctly on the shoe, running parallel to the sole and maintaining a consistent distance from the laces and the collar. Any deviation in placement is a sign of a potential fake.

3. The Heel Tab

Next up in our legit check is the heel tab, which is a small but crucial detail. On authentic Vans Old Skools, the heel tab is a rubber or vulcanized patch with the Vans logo. The logo should be crisp, clear, and well-defined. Look for any blurring, smudging, or inconsistencies in the logo's lettering. The color of the heel tab should be consistent with the rest of the shoe's design. The texture of the rubber should be smooth and slightly raised, providing a tactile feel to the logo.

Also, pay close attention to the placement of the heel tab. It should be centered and securely attached to the heel of the shoe. There should be no loose edges, gaps, or signs of adhesive. The stitching around the heel tab should be neat and uniform, without any visible flaws. Counterfeit Vans often have heel tabs that are poorly made, with faded logos, incorrect fonts, or misaligned placements. Sometimes, the heel tab might be glued on instead of stitched, which is a clear indication of a fake. Make sure to examine the heel tab closely to ensure it meets Vans' standards of quality and precision.

4. The Sole and Outsole

The sole and outsole of Vans Old Skools are key indicators of authenticity. Authentic Vans have a distinctive waffle pattern on the outsole, providing excellent grip and traction. This waffle pattern should be deep, well-defined, and consistent across the entire outsole. Counterfeit versions often have shallow, poorly defined waffle patterns that wear down quickly. The rubber used for the outsole should be durable and flexible, allowing for comfortable movement.

Examine the sidewalls of the sole. They should be clean, smooth, and free of any imperfections. Look for any signs of bubbling, cracking, or unevenness. The bonding between the sole and the upper should be seamless, without any gaps or excess glue. The insole should be cushioned and comfortable, providing adequate support for your feet. Check for the Vans logo on the insole. It should be clear, crisp, and properly aligned. The overall construction of the sole should feel solid and well-made, reflecting Vans' commitment to quality and durability. A genuine Vans Old Skool will have a sole that stands up to wear and tear, maintaining its shape and grip over time.

5. The Laces and Eyelets

Let's talk about the laces and eyelets. Authentic Vans Old Skools come with durable, high-quality laces that feel substantial to the touch. The laces should be the correct length for the shoe size, not too short or too long. The aglets (the plastic or metal tips at the ends of the laces) should be securely attached and free of any damage. The color of the laces should match the overall design of the shoe.

The eyelets, which are the metal rings that the laces pass through, should be securely fastened to the shoe. They should be evenly spaced and properly aligned. Check for any signs of rust, corrosion, or loose eyelets. The eyelets should be smooth and free of any sharp edges that could damage the laces. Counterfeit Vans often have low-quality laces that fray easily or eyelets that are poorly attached. The overall appearance of the laces and eyelets should reflect Vans' attention to detail and commitment to quality. By examining these small but important features, you can get a better sense of whether the Vans Old Skools you're inspecting are the real deal.

6. The Stitching

A crucial part of any legit check is inspecting the stitching. Authentic Vans Old Skools are known for their high-quality construction and precise stitching. Examine the stitching throughout the shoe, paying close attention to the seams and edges. The stitches should be uniform in size and evenly spaced, without any loose threads or skipped stitches. The color of the thread should match the overall design of the shoe and blend seamlessly with the upper material.

Pay special attention to the stitching around the sidestripe, heel tab, and sole. These areas often reveal inconsistencies in counterfeit shoes. Look for any signs of sloppy stitching, uneven lines, or frayed threads. The stitching should be clean and professional, reflecting Vans' commitment to craftsmanship. Counterfeit Vans often have poorly executed stitching with visible flaws and imperfections. By carefully inspecting the stitching, you can quickly identify potential fakes and ensure that you're getting a genuine pair of Vans Old Skools. Remember, quality stitching is a hallmark of authentic Vans footwear.

7. The Insole and Interior

Delving into the insole and interior of Vans Old Skools can reveal a lot about their authenticity. The insole should be cushioned and comfortable, providing adequate support for your feet. It should be securely glued or stitched to the inside of the shoe, without any loose edges or gaps. Check for the Vans logo on the insole. It should be clear, crisp, and properly aligned. The font and size of the logo should match the authentic Vans branding.

The interior of the shoe should be clean and well-finished. The lining should be smooth and free of any rough edges or exposed seams. Pay attention to the quality of the materials used in the interior. They should feel durable and comfortable against your skin. Counterfeit Vans often have insoles that are thin, flimsy, or poorly glued in place. The interior lining might be rough, scratchy, or made of cheap materials. By examining the insole and interior, you can assess the overall quality and comfort of the shoe and determine whether it meets Vans' standards of excellence.

8. Price and Where You Buy Them

Last but not least, consider the price and where you buy your Vans Old Skools. Authentic Vans are typically sold at a consistent price point, reflecting their quality and craftsmanship. If you come across a deal that seems too good to be true, it's likely a sign that the shoes are fake. Counterfeiters often lure customers in with incredibly low prices, hoping to make a quick profit.

Always buy your Vans from reputable retailers or authorized dealers. These stores are guaranteed to sell genuine products and stand behind their merchandise. Be wary of buying Vans from online marketplaces or unverified sellers, as these sources are often rife with counterfeit goods. Do your research and read reviews before making a purchase. If possible, visit a physical store and inspect the shoes in person before buying them. By being mindful of the price and where you buy your Vans, you can protect yourself from scams and ensure that you're getting a genuine pair of authentic Old Skools.

So there you have it, guys! By paying attention to these key details, you'll be able to confidently spot real Vans Old Skools and avoid getting stuck with fakes. Happy shopping!