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After 59 Years, Vans Found a New Way to Ruggedize Its Original Sneaker

The Authentic Zip Vibram blends modern trail tech with decades of surf heritage.

Vans Authentic VibramVans

By Jack Seemer

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After converting the Old Skool into a rugged, all-terrain hiker, Vans will usher its original sneaker down a similar path.

Only this time, the Authentic — formerly known as Style 44 in the 1960s — will retain its original look and geometry, albeit with exponentially more rugged materials.

Vans Authentic Vibram
The OTW Authentic Zip Vibram adopts a Vibram outsole and neoprene upper inspired by wetsuits.
Vans

Modern outdoor tech with decades of surf heritage

First the first time ever, the Vans OTW Authentic Zip Vibram sees the classic design take on a Vibram Vulc Tank Tread outsole.

Vans Authentic Vibram
Though various Vans models have adopted Vibram outsoles, this is the first time the Authentic has received Vulc Tank Tread.
Vans

This not only injects the classic shoe with extra traction and grip but increases its durability tenfold compared to standard Authentic models made with vulcanized rubber.

That ethos also shines on the rest of the upper and midsole, starting with a higher-than-average sidewall and knurled rubber heel counter — not to mention a reinforced toe cap for extra impact protection.

Vans Authentic Vibram
The OTW Authentic Zip Vibram comes in two colors — blue and high-visibility yellow.
Vans
Vans Authentic Vibram
The knurled heel cup adds both stability and durability.
Vans

Casting its namesake attribute aside, however, the shoe’s most novel feature is undoubtedly its stretchy neoprene upper inspired by wetsuits and booties.

That of course grounds the shoe in decades of surf heritage, while also making it both naturally adaptive and easy to put on — a feature underscored by its unique zip closure.

Vans Authentic Vibram
The neoprene upper is paired with a zip closure for easy on and off.
Vans

Availability and pricing

The Vans OTW Authentic Zip Vibram comes in two colorways at launch, “Dress Blue” and high-visibility “Canary Yellow.”

In the US, it’s currently available at Cncpts for $110.

About the Author:

Jack Seemer is the executive editor at Gear Patrol, with over a decade of experience in product journalism. He currently reports on a wide range of topics, including footwear, watches, EDC, cookware and more.

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