Vans vs Blazers Shoes

Are you trying to decide between Vans and Blazers for your next pair of cool kicks? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

We’ll compare these two awesome shoe brands to help you figure out which one is perfect for you. We’ll look at things like how comfy they are, how long they last, and what styles they come in.

So, let’s dive in and explore the world of Vans and Blazers!

Vans vs Blazers Shoes

The main difference between Vans and Blazers shoes is their origin and design. Vans were made for skateboarders and have a flatter, more flexible sole. Blazers were first made for basketball players and have a higher top and more ankle support.

Both are comfy for everyday wear, but Vans are often more colorful while Blazers have a sportier look.

Now, let’s create a detailed comparison table for Vans vs Blazers Shoes:

Feature	Vans	Blazers
Origin	Made for skateboarding	Made for basketball
Design	Low-top, flat sole	High-top or low-top, curved sole
Materials	Usually canvas	Often leather or suede
Comfort	Soft and flexible	Firmer with more support
Style	Casual, lots of colors	Sporty, classic look
Price	Usually $50-$70	Usually $70-$120
Best for	Skateboarding, casual wear	Sports, casual wear
Durability	Good for everyday use	Tough, lasts a long time
Breathability	Good, especially canvas ones	Okay, leather can be less breathable

In summary: Vans and Blazers are both cool shoes that lots of kids like. Vans are great if you want comfy, colorful shoes for everyday wear or skateboarding. Blazers are awesome if you like a sporty look or need more support for your feet.

Both can last a long time if you take care of them. The best choice depends on what you like and what you’ll use them for!

Also Read: Vans vs Ecco

What’s the Big Deal with Vans and Blazers?

Before we start comparing, let’s talk about why these shoes are so popular. Vans and Blazers are both classic sneaker brands that have been around for a long time. They’re loved by skaters, students, and pretty much anyone who wants comfortable, stylish shoes.

Vans started way back in 1966 in California. They became super popular with skateboarders because of their tough, grippy soles. Blazers, on the other hand, are made by Nike. They first came out in 1973 as basketball shoes, but now lots of people wear them for everyday use.

How Do They Look?

Vans Styles

Vans are known for their simple, cool look. The most famous Vans shoe is probably the Classic Slip-On. It’s easy to put on and comes in tons of colors and patterns. Another popular style is the Sk8-Hi, which goes up higher on your ankle.

Vans often have a thick, flat sole that makes them great for skateboarding. The top part of the shoe (called the upper) is usually made of canvas, which is a tough fabric. Some Vans also come in leather or suede.

Blazer Styles

Nike Blazers have a bit of an old-school basketball look. They usually go up higher on your ankle than most Vans. The original Blazer has a big Nike swoosh on the side, which makes them easy to spot.

Blazers come in low-top and high-top versions. The high-tops give more support around your ankle. Like Vans, Blazers can be made of different materials like leather, suede, or canvas.

How Long Do They Last?

When you’re buying shoes, you want them to last a long time, right? Let’s see how Vans and Blazers stack up in terms of durability.

Vans Durability

Vans are pretty tough shoes. They’re made to handle the wear and tear of skateboarding, so they can take a beating. The canvas material is strong and doesn’t rip easily. The soles are thick and can last a long time, especially if you’re just wearing them for everyday use and not skateboarding.

One thing to watch out for with Vans is that the glue holding the sole to the upper can sometimes come apart after a lot of use. But if you take good care of your Vans, they can last for years.

Blazer Durability

Blazers are also built to last. Remember, they were originally made for basketball, so they need to be sturdy. The leather versions of Blazers can be especially durable and may even look better as they age.

The soles of Blazers are usually made of rubber, which holds up well over time. Like Vans, if you’re not using them for sports, they can last even longer.

Also Read: Vans vs Hoka

Can Your Feet Breathe?

Nobody likes sweaty, smelly feet. So how do Vans and Blazers do when it comes to letting your feet breathe?

Vans Breathability

Vans shoes, especially the canvas ones, are pretty good at letting air flow. The canvas material has tiny holes that allow air to move in and out. This helps keep your feet cool and dry.

Some Vans models also have small holes on the sides of the shoes for extra airflow. However, leather or suede Vans might not breathe as well as the canvas ones.

Blazer Breathability

Blazers can be a bit hit or miss when it comes to breathability. The leather versions might not let your feet breathe as well as canvas shoes. But some Blazers have perforations (tiny holes) in the leather to help with airflow.

Nike has also made some Blazers with mesh material, which is super breathable. If you’re worried about sweaty feet, look for Blazers with mesh or canvas parts.

How Cushy Are They?

When you’re walking around all day, you want your shoes to feel like clouds on your feet. Let’s see how comfy Vans and Blazers are.

Vans Cushioning

Vans shoes usually have a pretty simple cushioning system. Most models have a soft insole (the part your foot sits on) that provides some cushioning. The thick, squishy sidewalls of the sole also help absorb shock when you’re walking or skating.

Some newer Vans models have added extra cushioning technologies. For example, the ComfyCush line has a special foam insole that’s super soft and bouncy.

Blazer Cushioning

Blazers often have more advanced cushioning than Vans. Many Blazer models use Nike’s Zoom Air technology in the heel. This is like a little air bubble that compresses when you step, giving you a bouncy, cushioned feel.

The insoles of Blazers are usually pretty comfortable too. Some models even have removable insoles, so you can replace them with your own if you want extra cushioning.

Do They Fit Well?

Getting shoes that fit just right is super important. Let’s see how Vans and Blazers compare when it comes to fit.

Vans Fit

Vans are known for having a pretty consistent fit. Most people find that their usual size in Vans fits them well. The shoes are designed to be a bit roomy in the toe area, which can be comfy if your feet tend to swell during the day.

One thing to note is that Vans can feel a bit stiff when you first get them. But don’t worry! They usually soften up and mold to your feet after you wear them for a while.

Blazer Fit

Blazers can be a bit trickier when it comes to fit. Some people find that Blazers run a little small, so you might need to go up half a size. The high-top versions can also feel tight around the ankle at first, but they usually loosen up with wear.

One good thing about Blazers is that they often have a snug fit around the midfoot, which can make them feel secure and supportive.

Will They Keep You Stable?

Whether you’re walking, running, or skating, you want shoes that keep you steady on your feet. Let’s look at how stable Vans and Blazers are.

Vans Stability

Vans are known for their flat, wide soles. This design gives you a lot of contact with the ground, which can make you feel very stable. The grippy waffle pattern on the bottom of Vans also helps you stay steady on different surfaces.

For skateboarding, this stability is super important. It helps you feel connected to your board. Even if you’re not a skater, this stable feel can be nice for everyday walking.

Blazer Stability

Blazers were originally made for basketball, so they’re designed to give you good stability when you’re moving in different directions. The high-top versions especially can give you extra support around your ankle.

The soles of Blazers usually have a pattern that grips well on indoor surfaces like basketball courts. This can also help you feel stable when walking on smooth floors.

Also Read: Vans vs Crocs

How Comfy Are They Overall?

Comfort is king when it comes to shoes. Let’s see how Vans and Blazers feel overall.

Vans Comfort

Vans are generally pretty comfortable for everyday wear. Their simple design means there’s not much to rub or pinch your feet. The soft canvas material is flexible and moves with your foot.

However, Vans don’t have as much arch support as some other shoes. If you need extra support for your feet, you might want to add insoles to your Vans.

Blazer Comfort

Blazers can take a little time to break in, especially the leather versions. But once you’ve worn them for a while, many people find them very comfortable. The cushioning in the sole can make them comfy for all-day wear.

The high-top Blazers give extra support around your ankle, which some people really like. But if you’re not used to high-top shoes, this might feel a bit strange at first.

How Good Is the Quality?

When you spend your money on shoes, you want them to be well-made. Let’s check out the quality of Vans and Blazers.

Vans Quality

Vans are known for being sturdy, well-made shoes. The stitching is usually strong, and the materials are good quality for the price. The simple design means there are fewer parts that could break or come apart.

One thing to watch out for is the glue that holds the sole to the upper part of the shoe. In some cases, this can start to come apart after a lot of wear. But overall, Vans are considered to be good quality, especially for their price.

Blazer Quality

Blazers are generally high-quality shoes. Nike is known for using good materials and paying attention to details. The stitching on Blazers is usually neat and strong.

The leather used on many Blazer models is often high-quality and can look even better as it ages. However, like with any shoes, the quality can vary a bit between different models and materials.

What Styles Can You Choose From?

Style is a big deal when picking shoes. You want kicks that look cool and match your personality. Let’s see what kinds of styles Vans and Blazers offer.

Vans Styles

Vans come in tons of different styles. Here are some of the most popular:

• Classic Slip-On: These are super easy to put on and come in loads of colors and patterns.
• Old Skool: These have the famous Vans side stripe and usually have laces.
• Sk8-Hi: These are high-tops that go above your ankle.
• Authentic: These are simple, classic lace-up sneakers.

Vans also often do collaborations with artists, brands, and even movies or TV shows. This means you can find Vans with all sorts of cool designs, from cartoon characters to abstract art.

Also Read: Vans vs Cariuma

Blazer Styles

Blazers also come in different styles, but not quite as many as Vans. Here are the main types:

• Blazer Mid: This is the classic high-top Blazer.
• Blazer Low: A lower version of the Blazer that doesn’t cover your ankle.
• Blazer Vintage: These look more like the original Blazers from the 1970s.

Nike often releases special editions of Blazers with different colors and materials. You can find everything from simple, classic looks to wild, colorful designs.

What Sizes Do They Come In?

Getting the right size is super important for comfortable shoes. Let’s see what sizes Vans and Blazers offer.

Vans Sizes

Vans come in a wide range of sizes for both kids and adults. They usually start at around a US kids’ size 3.5 and go up to a men’s size 16. Vans use US sizing, but they usually also list the UK and EU equivalent sizes.

One cool thing about Vans is that they often make the same styles in both men’s and women’s sizes. This means that no matter what size you wear, you can usually find the style you want.

Blazer Sizes

Blazers also come in a good range of sizes. They typically start at around a US kids’ size 3.5 and go up to a men’s size 18. Like Vans, Nike uses US sizing but provides UK and EU conversions.

Some Blazer models might not be available in all sizes, especially some of the special editions. If you wear a very small or very large size, you might have fewer options to choose from.

What Are They Made Of?

The materials used to make shoes can affect how they look, feel, and last. Let’s check out what Vans and Blazers are made of.

Vans Materials

Vans use a few different materials:

• Canvas: This is the most common material for Vans. It’s tough, flexible, and breathable.
• Suede: Some Vans use suede, which gives a softer, more velvety look.
• Leather: You can find some Vans made with leather, which can be more durable and water-resistant than canvas.
• Synthetic materials: Some Vans use man-made materials that can be more durable or water-resistant than natural fabrics.

The soles of Vans are usually made of rubber, which gives them their famous grip.

Blazer Materials

Blazers also use various materials:

• Leather: Many Blazers, especially the classic versions, are made with leather. This can be smooth leather or suede.
• Canvas: Some Blazer models use canvas, similar to Vans.
• Synthetic materials: Nike often uses high-tech synthetic materials in their shoes for better performance.
• Mesh: Some Blazers have mesh parts for better breathability.

The soles of Blazers are typically made of rubber, sometimes with added cushioning materials inside.

Also Read: Vans vs Nike

How Heavy Are They?

Nobody wants to feel like they’re walking around with bricks on their feet. Let’s see how Vans and Blazers compare in terms of weight.

Vans Weight

Vans are generally pretty lightweight shoes. The simple design and materials like canvas don’t add much weight. A typical pair of Vans might weigh around 12-14 ounces (340-400 grams) for a men’s size 9.

The exact weight can vary depending on the style and materials. For example, a leather pair of Vans might be a bit heavier than a canvas pair.

Blazer Weight

Blazers are usually a bit heavier than Vans. This is because they often have more padding and support, especially in the high-top versions. A pair of Blazer Mids in a men’s size 9 might weigh around 14-16 ounces (400-450 grams).

Like Vans, the weight of Blazers can vary depending on the specific model and materials used.

How Flexible Are They?

Flexible shoes can be more comfortable and easier to move in. Let’s see how bendy Vans and Blazers are.

Vans Flexibility

Vans are known for being pretty flexible shoes. The canvas material used in many Vans is soft and moves easily with your foot. The rubber soles are also designed to be flexible, which is great for skateboarding.

When you first get a new pair of Vans, they might feel a bit stiff. But they usually soften up quickly as you wear them.

Blazer Flexibility

Blazers are generally less flexible than Vans, especially when they’re new. The leather used in many Blazers can be stiff at first and takes some time to soften up.

The soles of Blazers are also usually stiffer than Vans. This can provide more support, but it means the shoes don’t bend as easily with your foot.

Will They Keep Your Feet Dry?

Nobody likes wet feet. Let’s see how water-resistant Vans and Blazers are.

Vans Water Resistance

Most Vans aren’t very water-resistant. The canvas material used in many Vans can soak up water pretty quickly. If you step in a puddle or get caught in the rain, your feet might get wet.

There are some Vans models made with water-resistant materials, but these aren’t as common. If you need shoes for wet weather, you might want to look for Vans made with leather or special water-resistant fabrics.

Blazer Water Resistance

Blazers, especially the leather versions, can be a bit more water-resistant than canvas Vans. Leather naturally repels some water, so light rain or small splashes might not soak through right away.

However, Blazers aren’t fully waterproof either. In heavy rain or if you step in deep puddles, your feet can still get wet. Like with Vans, there are some Blazer models made with more water-resistant materials, but these are special editions.

How’s the Sole?

The sole is the bottom part of the shoe that touches the ground. It’s super important for comfort and grip. Let’s see how the soles of Vans and Blazers compare.

Vans Soles

Vans are famous for their waffle soles. This is a pattern on the bottom of the shoe that looks a bit like the squares on a waffle. This pattern gives Vans really good grip, especially on skateboard decks.

The soles of Vans are usually made of rubber. They’re pretty thick, which helps absorb shocks when you’re walking or skating. The edges of the sole often wrap up around the side of the shoe a bit, which can help the shoes last longer.

One cool thing about Vans soles is that they’re usually the same color as the rest of the shoe. This can make the shoes look really sleek and put-together.

Blazer Soles

Blazers have a different kind of sole. Instead of the waffle pattern, they usually have a herringbone pattern. This looks like rows of little zigzags. This pattern was originally designed to give good grip on basketball courts, but it works well on lots of surfaces.

The soles of Blazers are also made of rubber, but they’re often a bit harder than Vans soles. This can make them last longer, but it might not cushion your steps quite as much.

Blazer soles are usually white or a light color, which stands out against the upper part of the shoe. This gives Blazers their classic, sporty look.

What Do Other Kids Think?

It’s always good to know what other people think about shoes before you buy them. Let’s check out some reviews from other kids who have worn Vans and Blazers.

Vans User Reviews

Rating	Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“I love my Vans! They’re super comfy and go with everything. I wear them to school every day.” – Sam, 13
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“Vans are cool and all, but they get dirty pretty fast. Still, they’re comfy and look awesome.” – Alex, 12
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“I got the sparkly Vans and they’re so pretty! My feet don’t hurt even when I wear them all day.” – Mia, 14
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“They’re okay, but not great for running around. I like them for hanging out though.” – Jordan, 11

Blazer User Reviews

Rating	Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“My Blazers look so cool. They took a while to break in, but now they’re really comfortable.” – Taylor, 13
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“I play basketball and these are great for that, but I wear them all the time ’cause they look awesome too.” – Chris, 14
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“They’re a bit heavy and hot in summer, but I love how they look.” – Riley, 12
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	“Best shoes ever! They last forever and go with all my outfits.” – Jamie, 13

How Much Do They Cost?

When you’re buying shoes, price is always important. Let’s compare how much Vans and Blazers usually cost.

Brand	Low-End Price	Average Price	High-End Price
Vans	$50	$60-$70	$75-$100+
Blazers	$70	$100-$120	$130-$150+

Remember, these prices can change depending on where you buy the shoes and if there are any sales. Special editions or collaboration shoes can sometimes cost more.

Pros and Cons

Shoe	Pros ✅	Cons ⚠️
Vans	Very comfy for everyday wear	Not great for sports (except skateboarding)
	Lots of cool colors and patterns	Can get dirty easily
	Great for skateboarding	Not much support for your feet
	Usually cheaper than Blazers	Not very water-resistant
	Easy to slip on and off	Might wear out faster if you skateboard a lot
Blazers	Good support for your feet	Can be a bit heavy
	Look sporty and cool	Usually more expensive than Vans
	Good for basketball and other sports	Can be hot in summer
	Often last a long time	Take time to break in
	Come in high-top and low-top styles	Not as many color choices as Vans

Which One Should You Choose?

Now that we’ve looked at all these different aspects of Vans and Blazers, you might be wondering which one you should pick. Well, the truth is, there’s no one “best” shoe. It all depends on what you like and what you need.

If you want a shoe that’s:

• Super flexible and easy to slip on
• Great for skateboarding
• Comes in tons of colors and patterns
• Usually a bit cheaper

Then Vans might be the right choice for you.

But if you want a shoe that’s:

• More supportive, especially around the ankle
• Good for basketball or other sports
• Has a classic, sporty look
• Often made of leather

Then you might prefer Blazers.

Conclusion

Both Vans and Blazers are awesome shoes with their own unique styles and strengths. Vans are all about that laid-back, skater vibe, while Blazers bring a touch of old-school basketball cool to your feet.

No matter which one you choose, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident in your shoes. After all, when your feet feel good, you can focus on having fun and being yourself!

Frequently Asked Questions