Vans is Bringing Back the World’s First Skate Shoe, the Skate Era, for a New Era
PublishedQuick Facts
- Debuting in seven colorways, four classics, and three modern updates, the new Era Skate starts with a black and white mix and a remake of the OG red and blue colorway, both in plush suede and reinforced canvas
- The three Wafflecup colorways start with a classic black-and-white, then add one in light and dark blue, and another in black and brown, keeping it suede across the entire upper, except for a new mesh panel added on either side for a bit of breathability on the skate sesh
- The Vans Skate Era collection debuts today, March 3, 2026.
These days, it’s common to think of classic lifestyle sneakers like the Nike Dunk or adidas Superstar turned into a skateboarding shoe with the addition of more padding and support. But back in the 1970s, the idea was revolutionary, turning the Vans Authentic from a flimsy canvas slipper into the Vans Skate Era, the world’s first skateboard shoe.
Now, the Vans Skate Era is coming back for the new era. Adding a newly designed WaffleCup sole that combines the best of Vans’ vulcanized history with the impact support of a cupsole, Vans is debuting the reworked Era Skate with help from OG Venice skater Tony Alva and modern rippers from across the globe like Dick Rizzo, Daiki Hoshino, Diego Todd, and more.
Debuting in seven colorways, four classics, and three modern updates, the new Era Skate starts with a black and white mix and a remake of the OG red and blue colorway, both in plush suede and reinforced canvas. The three Wafflecup colorways start with a classic black-and-white, then add one in light and dark blue, and another in black and brown, keeping it suede across the entire upper, except for a new mesh panel added on either side for a bit of breathability on the skate sesh. Vans has been making waves with strong collabs and a push back into the hype lifestyle side of things, but at the end of the day, the SoCal brand is dedicated to skateboarding first and foremost.
The Vans Skate Era collection debuts today, March 3, 2026 through Vans and select retailers in-store and online. Available in unisex sizing, the retail price is set at $65 for the OG pairs and $75 for the Wafflecup colorways. For all the latest Vans news and drop info, download the Sole Retriever App.
Zach Harris is a writer based in Philadelphia. His work has appeared in Rolling Stone, Vice, Complex, High Times, and more. He is obsessed with skateboarding and bowling. He is still looking for his first 300. For tips, reviews, and anything in size 10.5 - zach.h@soleretriever.com
