A Premium Tribute to a Skateboarding Icon
The Story · Where Heritage Meets Elevated Craftsmanship
Born in 1977 as the Style 36, the Old Skool was Vans’ first silhouette to feature the now-iconic Sidestripe™ — a design element that would go on to define generations of skate culture. It was also the brand’s first shoe to utilise durable leather materials, setting a new standard for skate footwear.
Now, the Vans LX Old Skool 36 Souvenir revisits that original blueprint with sharper edges, a shorter toe cap, and premium craftsmanship that elevates the silhouette to new heights. The “Faded Black” edition arrives as part of Vans’ seasonal refresh, joining Asphalt, Oatmeal and Navy in a collection that celebrates cultural expression and individuality. Following the sell-out success of the Warm Brown and Burgundy iterations, this Faded Black release is a true collector’s piece that embodies the Off The Wall spirit of Vans.
Design Highlights · Where Vintage Meets Modern
🖤 Faded Black Palette – Worn-In, Characterful, Versatile
The Vans LX Old Skool 36 Souvenir arrives in a “Faded Black” colourway that pairs premium canvas and leather with a washed, worn-in finish. This pre‑dirtied aesthetic gives the silhouette a naturally broken‑in feel, as if it has been part of your rotation for years.
✨ Signature Design Details
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Multi‑colour frayed knit Sidestripe™ – a textured, deconstructed take on the iconic Vans stripe
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Distressed souvenir pins attached to the upper, adding a unique, collectible touch
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Metal lace eyelets for premium durability
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Higher sidewall with a glossy finish and archival‑inspired foxing tape
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Pre‑dirtied finish for an already broken‑in look
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Sharper edges and a shorter toe cap – true to the original 1977 Style 36 proportions
👟 The Premium LX Silhouette – Skate Heritage, Elevated
The LX designation signifies Vans’ premium line – elevated materials, refined construction, and modern comfort upgrades that stay true to the original skate DNA. The result is a low‑top skate sneaker that balances archival authenticity with everyday wearability.
Specifications · Built for Comfort, Backed by Heritage
Comfort & Performance · All‑Day Wear, Elevated
At the heart of the LX Old Skool 36 Souvenir is the Sola Foam ADC (All‑Day Comfort) insole – a soft, durable cushioning system that provides lasting comfort whether you‘re on your feet all day or cruising through the city. Made with at least 30% biobased PU foam partially derived from plants, it’s a step toward more sustainable comfort.
The softly padded collar enhances all‑day wearability, while the improved footbed and refined construction work together to provide a smoother, more seamless fit. The vulcanized construction delivers that classic Vans feel, and the signature waffle outsole – a Vans hallmark since 1966 – ensures reliable grip and traction.
Styling Inspiration · From Street to Statement
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Monochrome Minimalist – Pair with black, grey, or white tones to let the textured Sidestripe™ and souvenir pins take centre stage.
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Worn‑In Aesthetic – Embrace the pre‑dirtied finish with relaxed denim, cargo trousers, or vintage‑inspired pieces for a naturally curated look.
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Smart Casual – Try them with cropped trousers or chinos for a polished yet laid‑back aesthetic that nods to skate heritage.
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Seasonless Styling – The versatile Faded Black colourway transitions effortlessly from summer to autumn and beyond.
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Collector‘s Edge – The distressed souvenir pins make these a conversation piece – style them to let the unique details shine.
Why This Pair Deserves a Spot in Your Rotation
The Vans LX Old Skool 36 Souvenir “Faded Black” – VN000E8VEMV is more than a sneaker – it‘s a piece of skateboarding history, reimagined for the modern era. From the shorter toe cap and sharper edges that pay homage to the original 1977 Style 36, to the pre‑dirtied finish and distressed souvenir pins that give each pair a unique, broken‑in character, every detail tells a story.
With its premium canvas and leather upper, Sola Foam ADC cushioning, and iconic Sidestripe™, this Faded Black edition delivers the perfect balance of heritage design, modern comfort, and collectible appeal. Whether you‘re a long‑time Vans enthusiast or someone looking for a standout casual sneaker, this LX silhouette is ready to become your new go‑to.
