Puma is a brand known for sport-inspired lifestyle products, covering the likes of football, running and training, golf, basketball, and motorsports.
For the avid skaters, however, there are plenty of Puma shoes that look like Vans. Here are some of the best options to consider as an alternative to the Old Skool Vans.
1. Puma C-Rey
Out of all the Puma shoes that look like Vans, the C-Rey has got to be my favorite.
Not only does the model resemble Old Skool Vans, but it has plenty of features such as good arch support, amazing cushioning, and a well-padded interior.
Speaking of the interior of the shoes, I think it’s well-designed, thanks to the ultra-cushy insoles and SoftFoam+ sock liner that I think makes these Pumas more comfortable than Vans.
One thing I’ve noticed about the C-Rey is that the Puma formstrip is the same shade of white as the sole, whereas the Classic Suede 21s has a formstrip that is a slightly different shade.
If you’re a sneakerhead who cares about that, it’s something to consider.
The price is reasonable too, retailing for just about $60, which is $10 cheaper than Vans. I’d go for these any day considering that a pair of Vans take a longer time to break into.
2. Puma C-Skate Vulc
The Puma C-Rey might be my favorite, but the Puma shoe that looks like Vans the most has got to be the Puma C-Skate Vulc. It’s basically Puma’s take on Vans skateboarding sneakers.
Similar to Vans, the Puma C-Skate Vulc is made with vulcanized construction, double-wrapped foxing tape, and tread waffle patterns, but fitted with Puma’s SoftFoam+ sockliner.
One thing to note, however, is that these Pumas are made with a canvas upper.
Canvas skate shoes may be more comfortable (due to their lighter weight) but won’t protect as much against impacts on hard surfaces or provide as much grip for tricks as suede shoes.
I bought a pair to test it out, and the color started fading after about 5 months of skating. The soles have started to separate at the flex point on both sides of both shoes after 8 months.
Are these Pumas the most durable? Definitely not. Puma is not a brand known for skateboarding, but it’s sure a great alternative to a pair of Old Skool Vans.
3. Puma Smash V2
The Puma Smash V2 isn’t actually a pair of skating shoes, but it does share some resemblance to a pair of Vans, especially if you go for the black upper with gum-colored soles.
Inspired by tennis (hence the name “Smash”), the shoe has been transformed by Puma into a pair of fashion sneakers, improved with a better fit, courtesy of the cushy sockliner.
What I like about this shoe is that it’s made with recycled content. The upper of this shoe is made with at least 20% recycled materials as a step toward a better future.
I just feel good wearing the shoes knowing that I did a small part for the betterment of the environment. And the best part is, it goes well with a lot of my outfits.
4. Puma Suede Classic
You can’t talk about Puma without mentioning its most popular design, the Suede Classic. And yes, it does look somewhat similar to a pair of Old Skool Vans.
Like the Old Skool Vans, the Suede Classic delivers an “old-school” look with modern features. The lace-up closure provides a secure fit while the cushioned midsole offers plenty of comfort.
I particularly like the non-white sole version, especially when combined with the suede upper. It looks not only retro but very “high-end” looking, which reminds me a lot of Vans.
Everyone needs a pair of casual sneakers that they can wear anytime.
The Puma Suede Classic is a solid option, regardless of the fact it looks like Vans or not. I got lots of compliments thanks to the gum-colored soles and I bet you’ll get them too.
5. Puma Suede Skate Sneakers
The Puma Suede Skate sneakers are basically the Puma Suede Classic but updated and improved to cater to the skaters that adore the Puma brand.
During the 1980s, the Puma Suede became a favorite among the skating community thanks to its simple design and great contrast between the outsole and the skateboard.
The classic Puma silhouette features a full suede upper, with a contrast color leather overlays around the upper edges, as well as textured rubber midsoles for better comfort.
To help skaters get a better grip on the skateboards, the shoe is fitted with non-marking rubber outsoles for better traction, making it a great alternative to the Old Skool Vans.
6. Puma Astro Kick
The Astro Kick is a football-inspired pair of Puma trainers for all the football (soccer) fans in the world, but the soft suede upper does remind me a lot of the Old Skool Vans trainers.
The soft suede upper features Puma’s formstripe, football-inspired stitching lines, and a bold branded synthetic leather tongue, inspired by the classic football silhouettes.
Because of the cushioning and light weight of the sneaker, the Astro Kick has been a daily sneaker of many, ideal for daily walks, office work, and all day on your feet.
Would these survive the wear and tear of a skateboard? I don’t know.
I’ve never skated in these. One thing I do know, however, is that these Astro Kicks are a little more comfortable than usual Pumas because of the soft foam insoles.
7. Puma Ever Mid
Last but not least, I’ve got to feature the Puma Ever Mid, which is a pair of high-top sneakers that looks a lot like Vans, especially the high-top variation.
The canvas upper and vulcanized cupsoles are the two things that make this Puma Ever Mid resemble the Old Skool Vans, although the former is not actually a skating shoe.
When I noticed them at the Puma store, they called my name instantly because the rubber soles were very alluring. It turns out they’re incredibly comfortable and go with everything.
All around, it’s a good-looking and comfortable pair of sneakers for a casual day out.
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