When Vans first launched the UltraRange series, the entire sneaker circle was asking the same question: Can this brand, which is famous for skateboarding culture, really make qualified running shoes? After 30 days of testing, we found the answer.

1. First impression: Is this really Vans?

The moment you unbox it, you will subvert your cognition: streamlined shoe body, breathable mesh fabric, exaggerated sawtooth outsole – this is completely different from the familiar Vans style. But the iconic “Off The Wall” offset print on the side of the shoe reminds you that it is still the rebellious brand at heart.

Actual test details:

The weight of a single shoe is only 280g (men’s size US9), which is 40% lighter than the traditional Sk8-Hi

The 8mm heel difference design is between traditional running shoes and flat skateboard shoes

The unique waffle outsole pattern combines the grip requirements of running shoes

2. Running test: unexpected surprises

We invited three testers to run 5 kilometers respectively:

Cushioning performance: ★★★★☆

The new UltraCush midsole is softer than expected, but retains sufficient support. The tester weighing 85kg reported: “It is much stronger than ordinary skateboard shoes, but not as good as the bounce of professional running shoes.”

Stability: ★★★☆☆

The wide last design is suitable for Asian feet, but the lateral support is slightly insufficient when making sharp turns. This means that it is more suitable for straight jogging rather than speed training.

Breathability: ★★★★★

The combination of three-dimensional mesh upper + punched insole keeps it dry at a high temperature of 28℃. The tester laughed and said: “Finally, I don’t have to endure the ‘sauna experience’ of skateboard shoes.”

3. Daily wear: This is its main battlefield

When returning to the urban life scene, UltraRange really shows its value:

Commuting artifact: From subway stairs to office carpets, seamless switching of various terrains

Matching tool: Low-key gray and black color matching, it doesn’t go against the flow with jeans or sweatpants

Travel essential: Foldable shoe collar design, it only takes 3 seconds to put on and take off during security check

Test editor’s daily record: “I walk an average of 12,000 steps a day wearing it, and the soles of my feet are completely free of the stiffness of traditional Vans.”

4. Extreme test: Easter egg for skateboard enthusiasts

We certainly haven’t forgotten Vans’s old business:

Ollie test: Lacks board feel than professional skateboard shoes, but more comfortable than running shoes

Wear-resistant performance: The reinforced area of ​​the toe box withstood 50 skateboard frictions

Unexpected discovery: The serrated outsole performs amazingly in the bowl pool, and the grip is beyond expectations

Professional skateboarder’s comment: “It is suitable for wearing on the way to the skatepark, but if you really want to practice new moves, you have to change to a professional model.”

5. Buying advice: Is it suitable for you?

Worth buying if:

You need a pair of “all-round” casual shoes

Like Vans culture but pursue a more comfortable foot feel

Frequently do 3-5 km light running

Not recommended if:

You are a serious runner (professional running shoes are recommended)

Pursue the retro style of traditional Vans

Limited budget (priced at about $100)

UltraRange may not be the best running shoe, nor the most professional skateboard shoe, but this “cross-border hybrid” just hits the needs of contemporary young people – both style and attitude, but also practicality and comfort. As the design director of Vans said: “We are not reinventing skateboard shoes, but redefining the concept of ‘street sports shoes’.”

Next time you are struggling with what shoes to wear for both fitness and shopping, you might as well try this pair of “unprofessional” Vans. After all, in this era of refusing to be labeled, who says skateboard shoes can’t conquer the running track?