We know what you might be thinking—seeing the words “old” and “36+” might make you assume this new Vans model Vans Old Skool 36+ is aimed at the over-thirty crowd of seasoned skaters. But jokes aside, many may not realize that this model was originally called the Style 36, which was the first Vans shoe to feature the brand’s iconic side stripe logo, introduced in 1977. It was also only their second release ever.
While the silhouette may look quite similar to the beloved Old Skool, the new Old Skool 36+ draws inspiration from the Style 36 but comes equipped with Vans’ latest technology to handle modern skateboarding demands (hence the “plus”). It also features a puffy tongue, which has made a comeback in recent years after fading out in the 2010s. Though iterations of the Style 36 have been released over time, the 36+, launched earlier this year, is the only version specifically designed for serious skating. We got our hands on a pair and put this classic-looking silhouette to the test – read on to see how it performed and whether it’s worth considering when choosing between the Old Skool Pro and Skate Old Skool models.
The Vans Old Skool 36+ fits true to size.
The Vans Old Skool 36+ features three key upgrades to enhance durability, a common challenge for vulcanized models. The upper toe area is reinforced with Vans’ Duracap, extending the shoe’s lifespan, while the outsole is crafted from SickStick rubber for improved grip and durability. Additionally, the sole is equipped with a thicker foxing tape for added strength. Instead of using canvas for the midfoot (which is blue in this colorway), Vans opted for a more durable material, which performed exceptionally well.
During our 10-hour wear test, the most noticeable impact came from the high, thick foxing tape, which served as the first point of contact. Although it showed some wear – especially in the kickflip area – the suede upper and outsole remained virtually untouched. The seams and outsole also demonstrated impressive durability throughout the test.
Vans has addressed one of the main drawbacks of the Old Skool by upgrading the insole to PopCush foam. Compared to standard Vans insoles, PopCush significantly improves impact absorption, particularly in the heel area, making landings on stair sets and gaps more comfortable. During our wear test, it was clear that the shoe effectively absorbs low to medium impact, thanks not only to the insole but also the added padding in the thick tongue. While it leaves a very positive impression, it still doesn’t quite match the stability of a classic cupsole. Nonetheless, the Skate Old Skool 36+ stands out as an excellent vulcanized shoe for impact protection.
The shape of the Skate Old Skool 36+ is an intriguing blend of classic and modern design elements. The toe area retains the signature slim, pointed silhouette of the Vans Old Skool. However, the thick padded tongue adds bulk to the midfoot, which can impact the heel lock. There are two ways to wear the shoe: tying the laces tightly provides a snug, padded vulcanized fit, while a looser lacing style creates a more puffy, relaxed feel.
Vans is renowned for the grip of their vulcanized soles, and for the Skate Old Skool 36+, they’ve incorporated the SickStick rubber compound. During our 10-hour wear test, the sole performed consistently well, requiring no break-in period and maintaining solid traction from start to finish. While it doesn’t offer the sharp, sometimes overly grippy experience of Vans Classics, the shoe strikes a perfect balance between grip and responsiveness, making it easy to adjust foot placement.
One of the standout features of the Vans Skate Old Skool 36+ is its exceptional board feel. The combination of a thin sole, foam insole in the toe area, and a flexible outsole allows for maximum contact between the foot, shoe, and griptape, enhancing overall control and responsiveness.
The Vans Skate Old Skool 36+ offers an overall snug yet comfortable fit. The padded tongue is equipped with straps to keep it in place, and the shoe is lightweight, with the PopCush insole providing noticeable underfoot comfort. However, breathability is quite limited, as the materials don’t allow much airflow.
In terms of stability, it’s a mixed bag. The toe and midfoot areas are notably secure, with the high foxing tape and padding offering excellent protection and support. On the other hand, the heel counter is relatively soft, and the opening is cut quite wide. The laces need to be tightened properly, as the thickly padded tongue can push the opening wider if the laces are too loose, potentially causing heel slip. To ensure a stable fit, we laced the shoe all the way to the top and tightened it, which resulted in a secure and comfortable fit without any heel movement.
The Vans Skate Old Skool 36+ is an exceptional vulcanized skate shoe that blends classic style with a modern twist. Its key strengths include durability, boardfeel, and cushioning, while the heel stability remains the only notable downside.
