Shoes Like Vans: The 13 Best Vans Alternatives

Brands like Cariuma, SeaVees, and even adidas have got some solid Vans alternatives in both a high and low top that are pretty much equal in terms overall design, durability, and pricing.You'll see that within our selections.

• Best For: Lifestyle / Skating
• What We Like: That it's made with sustainable material, has sturdy construction that results in durability, and multiple colors to choose from.
• What We Don't Like: That the shoes have to be broken in.
• A Promising Review: "I was so surprised by these sneakers! They have quickly become my favorite everyday shoes. They didn't require any break-in period like Vans or Nikes typically do. Highly recommend." - Urban Outfitters Reviewer

The Cariuma OCA Low is a great alternative to the Vans Low Top Sneaker—a slightly fancier version of the shoe so to speak. The shoes are eco-friendly, being made with recycled plastics and organic cotton, and are hand-made adding to its polished look and durability. You'll have to spend a little more than what you would on Vans, but the extra $20-$30 is worth the splurge considering what you are getting.

• Best For: Lifestyle / Skating
• What We Like: The colorblock design, the quality, and affordability.
• What We Don't Like: That the shoes have to be broken in.
• A Promising Review: "I bought the Keaton in blue and green and love them both. They appear to fit a little wide, but then again I have average width feet, maybe a tad on the narrow side I suppose. I would recommend keeping the filler paper for the shoes to hold its shape at the toe just because the material may crease overtime. Nonetheless the color is true to what’s on the website. I received many complements." - Ralph Lauren Reviewer

This canvas sneaker from Polo Ralph seems to be a keeper, as it has a vintage 1980-themed design that is very cool, and the ability to be styled in multiple ways. The shoe is also very comfortable as it has a vulcanized rubber sole and an EVA footbed for extra cushioning and protection. Another nice Vans alternative.

• Best For: Lifestyle
• What We Like: The elevated arch support, comfort, and quality
• What We Don't Like: That it runs on the bigger/narrow side
• A Promising Review: "They are good shoes overall, and I bought the black one first, then loved how good they look with everything, then decided to buy the white ones. I like these shoes and decided to get them because the toe box is slightly bigger and not as narrow as Converse." - adidas Reviewer

The adidas Nizza RF is a nice pickup that seems to work as a good Vans alternative for most that purchase it. There's two different colors, both of which make the shoe versatile in its styling, and the comfort is prioritized as well. For $40, you get a shoe that is practical, technical, and stylish. Seems like a great deal in our opinion.

• Best For: Skating
• What We Like: The design, versatility, and durability
• What We Don't Like: Runs small according to some user reviews
• A Promising Review: "I love Janoskis and was excited to see them return. I guess you could call me a sneaker-head but it would be more accurate to call me a Janoski-head. As this is my 20th pair and I don't skateboard. I used to when I was younger until I was in an accident in my late 20s. My obsession started in 2013 when I saw a pair at a Niké Store and bought it for it's style, but soon discovered that it was a perfect fit for my needs. My accident left me with nerve damage in my legs & feet and I have mobility issues and the grip, lightness and heel anchor all help me with my issues" - Nike Reviewer

The Nike SB Zoom Janoski was first released in 2009, remixed ten years later in 2019, and brought back by popular demand in 2023. This new iteration is a fresh take on loose and casual as it has a skate-specific tread to give you a great board feel and flick, along with a better fit and comfort.

• Best For: Lifestyle
• What We Like: The comfort, affordability, and overall nice design of the shoe.
• What We Don't Like: Runs narrow according to some users
• A Promising Review: "Met all my expectations: quality, fit, style. Hard to beat a classic" - Robert T, SeaVees Reviewer

If you are looking for shoe that is affordable, durable, and has a nice appearance that can be paired with anything, then the Legend Sneaker from SeaVees is an excellent choice. The shoe has a memory foam footbed with airflow channels for cooling comfort, a powergrip outsole made from natural rubber, and plenty more cool features that make it worth the splurge.

• Best For: Lifestyle
• What We Like: The easy slip-on nature of the shoe, the affordability, and its comfort
• What We Don't Like: Runs big according to some users
• A Promising Review: "They run a little big in size based on previous reviews so I ordered 7.5 and I normally wear men’s 8. They fit perfectly and are very comfortable. So if you are ordering online pick half a size smaller than us usually you wear. They look classy, clean and have memory foam in soals that is very comfortable on feet." Zeeshan, Macy's Reviewer

You could also try these $25 Tommy Hilfiger joints, which are available via Saks Fifth Avenue. The Roaklyn Logo Sneakers come in three different colors, are crafted with memory foam, and are easy to slip on and off, making them the perfect practical sneaker

• Best For: Lifestyle
• What We Like: The comfort, cushioning, and quality of the shoe
• What We Don't Like: Not as flexible as other shoes according to some
• A Promising Review: "This is my fourth pair of wool loungers. I bought my first when Allbirds was newer and smaller. As the company has scaled, the quality has remained. This shoe is artisan, not artificial. The merino wool is wool, not a petrochemical derivative. Several of the colors come off to the eye as very natural. The wool is somehow warm and breathable at the same time. Would-be difficult stains wash out easily. Odors disappear with little effort. It’s Allbirds for me." - AllBirds Reviewer

The Men's Wool Lounger from AllBirds comes with solid ratings, and is a good option for the those cold winter days with it's wool composition for when you want to throw on a quick shoe that will also keep your feet warm. The Wool Lounger can also be used as a house shoe if you want as well. You've got options here people. Options.

• Best For: Lifestyle
• What We Like: The design, the multiple colors available, and the comfort.
• What We Don't Like: Runs too narrow according to some users
• A Promising Review: "I was apprehensive about them but I am so glad I made the purchase anyway. They are super conformable and ao easy to hist slip on and off. Plus they are a great walking shoe because of the breathable fabric. I wouldn't recommend running but these are great for the beach or a casual stroll in the park or neighborhood. - Jason W., SUAVS Reviewer

The Zilker Gum shoe from SUAVS is another shoe that comes highly rated by many who have worn them. The Zilker is made for all-day wear, is easy to wear, and is built with moisture-wicking and breathable materials, along with a gum sole that moves right along with your feet. Sounds like a good deal to us!

• Best For: Lifestyle
• What We Like: The multiple color options, the affordable pricing, and versatility
• What We Don't Like: Runs big according to some users
• A Promising Review: "My husband is a creature of familiarity. Once he finds a shoe he likes, he buys them over and over! Thank you so much for continuing to have this shoe in your inventory! They hold up well and he will be buying another pair in a couple of years. I hope you still have them then!" - Amazon Reviewer

As we just said, Sperry Men's STRIPER II CVO Core Sneaker is a good shoe that is affordable and full of cool features. The saltwashed twill uppers are a dope feature, and we're fans of the multiple colors being offered. With the affordable price, you can snag more than one for sure.

• Best For: Lifestyle
• What We Like: The sleek design, quality, and durability of the shoe
• What We Don't Like: No half sizes
• A Promising Review: "Comfortable and stylish. Excellent customer service - delivery on time and I was kept notified of progress. I had to exchange for shoes that were "true" white as the ones I purchased previously were too grey so I went to your store and the assistants were very helpful. I now have three pairs of Vessi's and my husband and our sons have them too. I always recommend them. Wish it was easy to order from UK as my friends would like stylish but waterproof shoes there." - Margaret S, VESSI Reviewer

The Weekend Sneaker from VESSI is breathable, waterproof, machine washable, and anything but clunky, which is a great because who wants a clunky sneaker? The sleek design and versatility makes this great for easy wearability. You get the bang for your buck with these shoes.

• Best For: Lifestyle
• What We Like: The classic design and affordability
• What We Don't Like: Runs small/large according to some users
• A Promising Review: " I wear them everyday and they are super comfy and casual. They are super easy to pair with any outfit and so so comfy. Definitely recommend this brand in general but high tops are my definition favorite." - Kendra, Converse Reviewer

As we just mentioned, the reviews say that the Chuck Taylor All Star Classic is a timeless classic that has been a part of your regular style lineups for decades. There are a lot of similarities between Vans and Converse, and that includes their high top sneakers and their respective designs.

• Best For: Lifestyle
• What We Like: The classic design, affordability, and versatility
• What We Don't Like: Runs narrow according to some user reviews
• A Promising Review: "These shoes are great value for money and you can easily replace the insole with another one for maximum comfort." - Gregory, Amazon Reviewer

You can't go wrong with a decent quality sneakers that's under the price of $20. You just can't. It would almost be insane not to purchase. Throw in that under $20 price with the fact that shoes fit true to size, and are super comfortable...yeah this is a winner right here.

• Best For: Lifestyle
• What We Like: The cool design, comfortable fit, versatility, and affordability
• What We Don't Like: No half sizes
• A Promising Review: "A well constructed shoe that delivers on its promise of comfort. Shipping and delivery was on time and the shoes arrived in great shape. The colors were bright and clean. A solid minimalist shoe that you can wear to a workout and night out with friends." - Feiyue Reviewer

The Fe Lo 1920 is a vintage style shoe with modern updates as it has that "1970s trackstar design," but still very much looks as though it can fit in the 2020s. The shoe itself is flexible and comfortable, and provides maximum traction making it shoe that combines cushioning and functionality quite nicely. For just $30, the Fe Lo 1920 is a steal for sure.