Lots of people have always been wondering, “Are Vans non-slip shoes?”. The answer will be revealed in this article. Read ahead to know if Vans are non-slip or not.
If you are looking for a good pair of non-slip shoes, it might be that your job requires you to wear anti-slip shoes, or you just need slip-resistant soles that help you stay stable on different terrains. No matter what the reasons and environment are, non-slip shoes are always a good option for various occasions.
But there is a wide range of anti-skid shoes from different brands, making it hard to know which type will be the best option. One of the most popular questions regarding this is “Are Vans non slip shoes?”. Well, everything about Vans shoes will be explained in this article.
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Are Vans Non Slip Shoes?
The answer is yes. Vans shoes are designed to be non-slip. In the beginning, Vans were famous for their skateboards. However, nowadays, the brand has also become the most popular among people who work in the field of the restaurant. The key reason for this solid choice is because the used materials allow you to achieve ultimate grip or traction when you are on the go.
So, What Makes Vans Shoes Non-Slip?
In fact, Vans are specially designed with a number of outstanding properties that allow them to be non-skid. Typically, Vans shoes are even made with some exclusive features that are not popular in other shoe brands. And here is what makes Vans slip-resistant:
Rugged Rubber Outsoles
One material that you can surely find in Vans shoes is rubber. The company uses rubber as a major raw material for their shoes’ outsoles and soles.
Rubber has always been considered a great sole material as it has some of the best anti-slip characteristics itself. For example, soles made from rubber will provide you with excellent traction, even when you are walking on greasy or wet terrains. Of course, the level of traction highly depends on the rubber quality.
It is easy to understand that poor-quality rubber will not offer much grip, and it might even be prone to tear and wear. However, Vans use premium-quality rubber that provides the best possible friction or traction between the terrain and the sole.
What’s more, Vans have a high coefficient of dry static. In other words, it optimizes the ratio of friction force from one terrain to the other. Therefore, you can wear Vans shoes while walking or even running on wet terrains without worrying about getting fallen.
In addition, Vans applies a unique vulcanization process in their construction process. Accordingly, during the manufacturing process, the rubber is “shot” into the shoe in two different phases. In the first stage, the rubber is heat-treated and compressed before being steam baked in the second stage.
Anti-skid Tread Patterns
In addition to rigid rubber soles, tread patterns are another key feature making Vans non-slip. In particular, these thoroughly composed grooves go along the soles, optimizing the shoe’s traction. Some might feel that these are just a small detail, but in fact, they have a significant effect.
These marks are usually designed in a circular shape running across the sole. It is these patterns that help prevent water or grease from adhering to the shoes. As a result, it increases the slip resistance level of the shoe.
How To Tell If Your Shoes Are Slip-Resistant?
Even though some shoes may have the tag “slip-resistant” or “non-slip” tag on them, that doesn’t necessarily mean it. I have put together some great tips that you can use to see if your shoes are non-slip or not.
The very first thing to pay attention to is the outsole materials and design, particularly the tread patterns. These come in a broad spectrum of designs, such as cricles, hexagons, squares, and triangles. While all of these designs offer a good level of friction, circle-grip outsoles seem to be the best performers.
Don’t forget to check the sole’s materials, especially the material of the outsole. As you might know, the outsole of the shoe is the part that comes into contact with the terrain. Among various materials, rubber is considered among the best in guaranteeing shoes’ slip resistance. This is because it can provide a reliable grip on almost any type of surface regardless of its wetness or grease, such as stone tiles, hardwood floors, etc.
Also, mind the finish of the tread patterns on the outsole surface of the shoe. Usually, large lugs (such as grooves or indentations) are not ideal for non-slipping. Instead, a smaller tread pattern design for the best traction.
Also, feel the sole when you are holding the shoes in your hand. If it is sturdy or stiff, then it might not be great for slip resistance. On the other hand, softer soles (like those made from rubber) tend to provide a better grip on greasy or wet surfaces.
One of the most popular ways to check the friction level of the sole is to pour water, oil, and soap onto a smooth surface. Then you will try walking on that surface. Nonetheless, always be careful when walking across it as it can become really dangerous if your shoes are not anti-skid.
See also: 10 Ways to Make Shoes Non-Slip?
Are Vans Non Slip For Work?
I have mentioned earlier that Vans shoes are non-slip. Therefore, they are a fantastic option for work, typically where the environment poses a high risk of slippage, like kitchen, restaurants, etc. Floors in such places are susceptible to spills of all kinds. Therefore, a pair of non-slip shoes is essential.
For these special kinds of shoes, Vans include some of the greatest features to deliver the optimal traction or grip.
- An improved footbed with excellent arch support and cushioning
- Rugged, non-slip outsoles for a better grip on slippery restaurant/kitchen floors
- A unique “black for the floor” design to hide marks or stains on your shoes
- Canvas especially treated with patented Vansguard® to prevent foods, liquids, and dirt
Below are some great examples of several remarkable Vans non slip shoes for restaurants and Vans non slip kitchen shoes.
As a small disclaimer here, you should check with your manager to see if the shoes conform to the dress code or not.
So, now let’s look at several outstanding Vans non slip shoes for work.
The first model to be mentioned is the Vans Vn-0tuy187 Trainers for Men. These sneakers come in a durable canvas body and durable gum rubber soles, which are considered excellent for slippery surfaces. There are three colors available in these models. The all-black design is considered the best option for professional workwear, though.
Another incredible model is the Vans Unisex Era Skate Shoes. Made from two-stitched canvas upper and unique waffle rubber outsole for skid resistance. In addition, the sole is designed to be really thick, making it relatively comfortable and durable for long wear.
Besides, slip-on sneakers, for example, the Vans Slip-on Core Classics Trainers, are also an ideal option for work. This design makes it easier and faster to slip on and out. Of course, these shoes are made with thick, rigid rubber outsoles for optimal traction. And the white color is also a good choice for most workstations.
If your job requires you to stand or walk for an extended period, slip-ons such as these Vans Trainers will be an ideal option. The outsoles are made from rubber that is thick yet soft and comfy enough. More importantly, it is anti-skid, making it ideal in the restaurant or kitchen floors. What’s more, the slip-on design allows you to take off the shoes whenever you want for relaxation and put them on in seconds.
So, How Do Slip-Resistant Shoes Actually Work?
When it comes to anti-slip, it is usually referred to as a surface or a shoe that is specially designed to prevent slippage, no matter what kind of surface it is, such as greasy, slippery, oily, etc. Of course, you should keep in mind that a slip-resistant label doesn’t ensure that you will not fall. Instead, it does make it more unlikely to occur.
Related: Slip Resistant vs Oil Resistant
Generally speaking, non-slip shoes have rubber soles and outsoles with a certain tread pattern running across the outsole. This design is to provide you with extra traction when you are walking on different surfaces. Usually, the softer outsole and deeper grooves will let the shoe grip surfaces better, even in the presence of moisture or grease. Meanwhile, flat-soled sneakers with less or smaller tread patterns will not offer much skid resistance.
In this case, the determining factor for the level of slip resistance is the tread’s shape. Basically, casual shoes tend to come in only one form of tread pattern, while work shoes typically have a wide range of tread forms. This design makes it more flexible by allowing it to handle various surfaces and environments.
Pro Tips
- To maintain the slip resistance of your shoes, you should clean your white vans’ tread patterns regularly, typically if you usually walk in muddy or dirty conditions. Another good way to clean these treads is to use some water with an old toothbrush. Or let the shoe completely dry and simply pat the soles together to remove residue or debris.
- The depth of the treads or grooves is also an important element allowing you to determine the outsole’s slip resistance. As a general rule, deeper lugs usually perform better than shallower ones.
- There is no need to worry about the differences between slip-resistant, non-slip, non-skid, ski-resistant, as there is not any variation here. Brands like to use a variety of labels to sell their shoes, even when the meanings are mostly the same.
How To Make Shoes Slip-Resistant For Work?
If you have just bought a pair of women’s shoes that are not non-slip as you expected, but you can’t afford new anti-skid shoes, don’t worry. There are different ways to enhance the level of slip resistance of your shoes, regardless of the outsole’s design and material. Here are some great tips you can follow:
Firstly, think about buying a non-slip sole that allows you to attach it to your shoe’s bottom. These removable soles are less expensive yet really effective in making shoes slip-resistant. Moreover, they can even provide you with a certain amount of comfort. They will also protect the outsoles of your shoes from premature wear and can even extend their longevity.
Consider using non-slip spray coating. If you don’t want to or can’t buy the detachable soles above, this will be a great alternative. But, it should be highlighted that there are so many types available on the market. So, be sure to choose the one that is in compliance with your shoes.
For a quick fix, you can use hairspray too. Simply spray an adequate amount and let it completely dry before putting it on. However, you should be advised that this is not a permanent method.
If you have heels or flats, consider attaching an ankle strap to the shoe. While this might not help the shoe non-slip, it will make you feel more stable when you are walking on greasy or slippery terrains.
Puff paint is another great tip to try. For those who don’t know, puff paint is a type of pain used in crafts for kids. When the paint dries, it will become rough and textured, making it perfect for slip resistance. Simply apply a thin layer of puff paint on the shoe’s outsole and let it dry for a few hours before wearing. But, this is also just a temporary solution.
Another useful trick is to rub the shoe’s soles against a rough surface, such as gravel or concrete. New shoes usually come in slippery bottoms. So, you are removing the slippery outer layer by rubbing.
For more helpful tips on how to make shoes anti-skid, you can watch the video below.
Other Slip-Resistant Shoes
There are three big brands when it comes to non-slip shoes, including Vans, Converse, and Crocs. Out of these three names, Converse so far holds the record for the best slip resistance.
Converse has always seen a strong contender in the anti-skid sneaker league. Their shoes are famous for the ultimate comfort, excellent protection, and great performance. Accordingly, the company uses special tread patterns to keep the shoe stable on wet, oily, or greasy surfaces.
Crocs, on the other hand, have become a standard footwear staple for people who work in restaurant and kitchen environments. These shoes are not only good at resisting slippage but also help prevent odor. In addition, their designs are usually easy to clean. However, if you plan to walk for an extended time in Crocs, you should think again as they don’t seem to offer much-needed ankle and arch support.
Conclusion
So, in conclusion, the answer to the question “Are Vans non slip shoes?” is yes. Almost all Vans shoes are made with rugged rubber outsoles and special tread patterns. It is this unique design that offers reliable traction. Vans shoes are also a great option for sports, such as boating or skateboarding, in addition to work environments like kitchens or restaurants.