No, Vans are not good for running because they are not made to take the pounding from running. Even though they are lightweight and have a good grip, they have very little arch support, Running shoes are built to have amazing cushioning that helps cushion the blow when the foot hits the ground. But Vans can be used for other mild exercises.
Many people have been making inquiries about using vans shoes for running and have gotten numerous negative feedback. One day, while I was on the track field, having my usual runs, I observed a coach rebuking one of his trainees for intending to use a Vans Ave Pro for practice. The conversation was so intense that I researched why the coach was so against using Vans shoes for running.
My research led me to many reviews on using vans shoes for running. This article is based on my research findings.
In this article, I will address the usage of van shoes for running with a few need-to-know facts you should know about running with van shoes. I will also be covering the essential characteristics of an excellent running shoe.
Which Vans Model Is Good for Running
The Vans Mesh Iso 1.5 is a recommended running shoe because it is lightweight, has a rubber sole, and is made of breathable mesh fabric. So yes, vans mesh Iso 1-5 can be used for running.
During my research, I came across several van users who didn’t recommend the shoe for running. One recurring complaint was that vans don’t have proper cushions to minimize the amount of shock the feet feel when they hit the ground, and this is a requirement for running shoes. They, however, recommended vans as a great choice for weightlifting, squats, and deadlifts.
Running shoes come with cushions that allow the shoe to properly and comfortably shape the feet and also control the amount of shock the feet and leg experience when they hit the ground, and vans do none of these.
Many also recommended vans as skateboard shoes. Their outsoles are made of natural and synthetic gum rubber, making them a great pick to ensure board grip and a broad feel while skateboarding.
Despite the numerous reviews against vans for running, most people still use them for running, and you can too. However, there are certain facts you should know before you choose to do so. These facts will be discussed later in this article’s “pros and cons of vans” section.
During the celebration of its 50th anniversary in 2016, Vans launched a campaign to let people know that they were no longer an exclusively skateboarding brand.
With the release of new shoe models, Vans has boosted its presence in the shoe business. They have a high level of demand, which is a result of their publicizing the brand through famous athletes and celebrities.
Pros and Cons of the Vans Running Shoes
| NO | PROs | Cons |
| 1 | They are lightweight, making them easy to run in. This is because they have flat soles with little or no cushions. | Vans have little to no cushioning, especially in the heel and ankle collar area, to help manage the impact your feet feel when they hit the ground. |
| 2 | Their mesh textile fabric gives that smooth feel that makes them comfortable to run in. | They have poor breathability in the upper, which will make your feet sweat more. |
| 3 | Their rubber soles allow them to offer a firm grip, especially when running on a wet surface. | Designed with rubber soles, vans do not allow flexibility in certain areas. This makes them stiff and hard to break into. |
Vans as Good running shoes
As noted earlier, there are many reviews against using vans for running. However, several people still employ them for running, especially the Vans Mesh Iso 1.5 model.
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Having an ultra cush Lite outsoles and sock, mesh textile upper, rubber sole that helps with grip, and an extremely lightweight, comfortable feel, the Vans Mesh Iso gives an excellent athletic fit impression and is a great pick for running.
Characteristics Of A Good Running Shoe [ Watch Video]
Various vital pieces make up a running shoe. Each piece has a function that provides support, stability, protection, and comfort to the feet. These pieces come in specs that differ from shoe to shoe. To know a good running shoe, it must process the following pieces:
1. Upper
Upper usually refers to everything above the sole of a shoe and is made of fabric and mesh. A smooth upper will minimize (if not completely prevent) chafing and blisters that come from running.
2. Outer
The outer/outsole is usually made from a combination of foam and rubber to provide durability and protection. This combined mixture varies from shoe to shoe; some come in just rubber. When getting a running shoe, remember that the more durable a shoe’s outsole, the heavier it’s likely to be. So finding one with the right balance might take a lot of testing.
3. Midsole
The midsole is the layer between the shoe’s outsole and the mesh or fabric upper. This shoe section is made of padding that controls the level of force the feet experience from hitting the ground.
4. Heel counter
The heel counter is a cup situated at the back of the outsole, near the back foot, to provide support and stability upon landing.
5. Ankle collar
The ankle collar, as the name implies, is found near the ankle. It is made of padding that holds the ankle down and keeps the foot secure. Some ankle collars tend to cause Achilles tendon irritation, so it is an important piece to test
6. Toe box
The toe box is located between the laces and the beginning of the sole, allowing the toes to spread freely.
7. Saddle
The saddle is located near the laces and works to keep your feet in place and secured.
8. Sockliner
This is the removable foam pad usually found at the bottom of a shoe. Depending on the shoe type and brand, the sock liner can provide a lot of cushioning or only minimal cushioning and arch support.
9. Toe Box
The toe box is located at the end of your shoe between the laces and the sole. It serves the purpose of allowing the runner to wiggle his toes.
10. Heel to forefoot drop
The drop of a shoe is the angle between the heel and the toe. It controls how the feet strike the ground.
FAQ
Here are other information about Vans Shoes you might want to know.
Are vans good for walking long distances?
Yes. Vans shoes offer great support with a comfortable fit all day long due to their sturdy rubber sole and flexible canvas construction.
Can I use Vans for running?
Vans are not made to be used in any athletic way, so Vans shouldn’t use them for running. They are not made to take the pounding from running. Running shoes are made to help cushion the blow when the foot hits the ground.
Are Vans good for exercise?
Vans are good shoes for exercises like weightlifting, squats, and deadlifts.
Are Vans considered athletic shoes?
NO, Vans is a skateboarding shoe brand. Vans are not comfortable shoes for running or any other sport. Vans is a skateboarding shoe brand; they might look like good tennis shoes because of the traction, but it doesn’t mean they’re the best ones to use.
Does it hurt to run in Vans?
Yes, because Vans do not offer enough arch support for your feet as you run. It can lead to various health problems down the line; just because people used to run barefoot centuries ago does not mean it’s a great idea now.
Are Vans Unisex?
Yes, Vans has been created to be inclusive of all genders, right from the launch of its first pair of authentic deck shoes to its most recent collections. The designs’ fits and sizes can be enjoyed and worn by anyone.
Are Vans Hard To Break-In?
The sturdily designed vulcanized rubber soles make vans hard to break into.
How To Make Your Vans More Comfortable?
To make your Vans more comfortable, wear a pair of thick socks to protect your feet from the heat, put your Vans on and walk around inside until your shoes are cool. This helps soften the backs to the shape of your foot for a more comfortable fit. Repeat on the opposite shore, and feel free to repeat this method.
Are You Supposed To Wear Socks With Vans?
Yes. Socks absorb a lot of sweat that comes from wearing vans. They also make getting your vans on and off easier as your feet won’t be sticky with sweat. So it’s usually a good idea to wear socks with your Vans, even if you can’t see them.
What Is The Best Way To Clean Vans?
The best way to clean vans is to wash them with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent after removing the insoles and laces. Then, wrap your damp Vans in a towel and press any excess water before leaving them to air dry. Machine washing is not recommended.
How Long Do Vans Last?
With proper maintenance, Vans can last for at least a year or two.
Are Vans Zero Drop Shoes?
Since the ’60s, Vans have been ‘zero drop shoes. All vans shoe designs come in “no drop in the sole of the shoe from the heel to the toe”.
