Vans Classic Slip-On

The Classic Slip-On was introduced in 1977 as the Vans #98, and caught on first with skateboarders and BMX riders in Southern California. The checkerboard print debuted the same year on this shoe: Steve Van Doren, son of founder Paul, had noticed skaters drawing checkerboards on their shoes and put the pattern into the canvas. In 1982 Sean Penn wore black and white checkerboard Slip-Ons as Jeff Spicoli in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, which Vans dates as the moment the pattern became known outside skating.

Sizing: Vans says a new pair can feel tight at first and advises stretching rather than going up a size, which gives a loose fit. This hub lists every Classic Slip-On colourway from the shops we track, with sizes in stock and the checked date.