Last Updated on October 19, 2021

After more than two decades, Vans footwear is still as famous as it was at its peak during the 90s. They are a symbol of the alternative skate community and its values, and truth be told, the mystic associated with the brand has only managed to grow over the years. 

Wearing Vans means something and there is no escaping it.

But, what if you wanted to leave behind all of the connotations that are associated with the brand and still rock the looks? Could it be done? We dived in deep and did the most thorough research you will ever find on the best Vans look-alike sneakers so you didn’t have to. 

For women and men…Slip Ons, high tops, low tops…Canvas shoes, leather shoes, vegan shoes…Embroidered, printed, monogrammed…You name it. We’ve got you covered! 

Read on to find out which Vans’ look-alike is the right one for you.

Brands with Shoes Like Vans

#1. Converse shoes like Vans

Historically, Converse was Vans’ nemesis and its biggest competitor. I already covered all about their epic rivalry and history in a previous blog post, so read here if I’ve got you curious!

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This brand really looks a lot like the Old Skool Vans… The All-Stars logo is their biggest giveaway but in truth, both their low tops and high tops differ quite a bit in construction. 

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Mainly, they have a rubber pointer and a long stitched tongue that runs all over the top, with shiny and pronounced eyelets, whereas Vans have a shorter tongue, canvas upper pointers, and a supportive collar.

They pride themselves on their quality so you really can’t go wrong with this brand. For me, it comes down to an aesthetic decision of not being a huge fan of the long tongues and drawstrings.

Read: Battle of the Footwear: Vans vs Converse

#2. Levis shoes like Vans

Levi’s might not be the first brand that pops to your mind when you think of Vans look-alike sneakers, but you would be surprised at how many similar shoes they have! 

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

I am a huge fan of Levi’s, particularly of their jeans and footwear, because in my personal experience their superb quality makes them a great investment that usually lasts a bunch of years. In fact, I ended up getting a pair of those Nappa Classic Black Leather Low Tops for my hubby right after putting this list together!

That particular model is very similar to the Vans Era model as far as construction goes, but their all-black style with a tiny red Levi’s label is as nondescript as they come. If you are not into the whole logomania trend, these are the shoes for you. 

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The second option resembles an Old Skool model and is a bit more similar to a Converse. The stripes on the side are a nice touch that brings attention to the brand and adds a little flair!

#3. Adidas shoes like Vans

This top-of-the-line sports footwear brand is recognized worldwide for its quality and design. Their most famous shoes tend to be ergonomic marvels of technical innovation that ensure the best performance for athletes of diverse sports. However, they also have a bunch of pretty streamlined models that resemble Vans very closely.

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This particular model features a long tongue and drawstring closure, hallmark shell toe, a rubber sole, and a 100% leather top. Aesthetically, it is slightly rounder than a Converse or a Vans and features a handy molded sock liner. Oh, the ankle collar is slightly taller than what it generally is on low tops, making it look like a cross between a running sneaker and a boating low top. 

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

In both models, their hallmark shell toe transforms into an elongated tongue and the sides are pulled together by drawstrings. In this case, instead of a logo, the side features three parallel stripes.  The top of the shoe is taller in this model too.

You May Like: Family Roots Run Deep: Adidas vs. Puma

#4. Nike shoes like Vans

Nike is as big a sports footwear brand as they come. From their origins to their media presence in movies like Forrest Gump or Back to the Future, it is the brand you want to be wearing if you are into sports professionally. I mean, we already covered their history and amazing star models here, so visit my other blog post if you want to know more about the brand!

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

I have to admit my surprise at spotting these Vans lost-at-birth twins. The design is pretty much the same, with a curved front and padded ankle collar. Nike’s logo makes it crystal clear who is behind this crimson pretty though.

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

On the other hand, a black logo over a velvety-looking black canvas low top makes for a practically indistinguishable and nondescript shoe that is betting against our favorite Levis pick to play undercover sneaker of the year. 

Read: Reebok vs Nike: Battle of the Footwear Brands

#5. Fila shoes like Vans

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

These Fila high tops really got me nostalgic! It is precisely the model we used to wear back in the day! Its black and red color combination would go nicely with my favorite sporty joggers, too. Although I am not a huge fan of high tops, it really made me pause and reconsider.

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This low-top model on the other hand is very similar to Adidas but with a rather simpler look and all-white design that minimizes their logo’s importance (unlike Adidas!). I really love the minimalist aesthetic and simple lines!

#6. Keds shoes like Vans

Keds are another of my favorite brands. They have a ton of very classic models but what I really love about them is their collaborations! My favorite pair of Keds is actually one from the Rifle Paper Co collaboration in printed canvas. 

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This is one of my preferred classics models. It is a slip-on shoe with sewn eyelets and a comfortable rubber sole. An innovative and super comfortable boating shoe! And the pink hue is absolutely adorable!

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Speaking of the Rifle Paper Co collab, these Strawbeyy sneakers have printed soles. Their quality is amazing and after washing mine several times, I can vouch for the print’s longevity.

Vans Look-alikes (with Different Materials)

#7. Canvas shoes

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Everyone should at least own one pair of canvas shoes, be it adult or child! They are beyond comfortable, fresh for summer, and the best combination for a pair of jean cutoffs or shorts. 

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Levi’s waxed canvas model makes them extra durable and comes with a rugged sole for extra traction. Converse pair on the other hand is their most classic model ever with pointed rubber, All-Star logo, and striped sole.

#8. Vegan shoes

Lots of people are against using leather because of its origins, so I thought to include a few options that are vegan and made of all man-made materials.

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

These Levi’s low tops that look exactly like Vans Era are made entirely from synthetic leather and they look very similar to their leather counterparts. An excellent buy for a budget price with all the comfort and the best reviews!

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you are more into the long tongue and drawstrings Converse-style model, this is the perfect option for you. Shop for the looks, 100% synthetic materials, and rest assured that your sneakers won’t have any animal parts!

#9. Embroidered shoes

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Puma has an amazing pair of suede low tops with flower embroidery on the side over a curved stripe that surrounds the show. I love the colors and how striking they look over a black upper.

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Speaking of striking embroidery, these navy keds with a padded collar look delicious covered in tiny strawberries. 

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This SeaVeeds model brings a refreshing take to the table. Its cotton-blend design looks like scratched over denim but in fact, it’s embroidered over the upper canvas. One of my absolute favorites! I can totally picture it with white linen pants or colored chinos. 

#10. Loafer shoes

Loafers are pretty similar to moccasins, they have a sewn border around the top and are closed with a short drawstring at the height of the shaft. They usually have rubber soles and can be slipped on and off without much trouble.

Last update on 2021-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

I can’t stress enough how much I love Keds in general, and their loafers are not an exception to this! Soft grey fabric combined with white drawstrings and a white rubber sole guarantee the perfect boating look.