Updated 3 Nov 2026
Is the Vans Knu Skool worth it?
Yes — if you want the chunky skate look.
The thick tongue and padded collar give it the oversized 90s look, and the build is tougher than the Old Skool's. It's roomy at the toes, which suits wider feet. At 468 g it's heavy, the heel rubber slips on wet floors, and the insole is glued in, so you can't swap in your own. The puffy tongue makes it a squeeze to get into.
95%of 808 owners give it 4 or 5 stars
- Chunky 90s skate look
- Tougher build than the Old Skool
- Roomy at the toes
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What owners say
Nearly all verified owners are happy with the chunky look and comfort; the main complaint is pairs tearing or the sole coming apart within months.
Good to know
- Heavy for a skate shoe, at about 470 g each.
- The heel rubber slips on wet floors.
- The insole is glued in, so you can't fit your own.
- The thick tongue makes it tight to slip on; some owners find it snug once laced.
From 808 buyer ratings at Otto (Germany), every complaint read by us, November 2026. How we do this
What they love
- Looks greatMentioned a lot
- ComfortableMentioned a lot
- Well madeMentioned often
- True to sizeMentioned often
What they complain about
- Tore or came apart within monthsVery rare
Get it if…
- You want the puffy, oversized look.
- You have wider feet.
- You want a pair that takes some knocks.
Skip it if…
- You want something light — get the Old Skool.
- You walk on wet pavements a lot.
- You use your own insoles.
More on the Knu Skool
How we reached this verdict
RunRepeat's lab rated it 82/100, with top marks for durability and a wide 96.5 mm forefoot, but found it heavy at 468 g, with poor wet grip at the heel and a non-removable insole. A second expert review hasn't covered it, so the verdict also rests on Otto's verified buyers, who are mostly happy; the main complaint is pairs wearing through within months.
We compared independent expert reviews with the manufacturer's specifications, then checked it's sold at a major retailer where you live. We don't test products ourselves.
Sources: RunRepeat: Vans Knu Skool, Vans (specs), RunRepeat: ASICS Gel-1130, RunRepeat: adidas Samba OG, RunRepeat: adidas Gazelle, RunRepeat: New Balance 530, RunRepeat: New Balance 9060, RunRepeat: Nike Air Force 1 '07, RunRepeat: Reebok Club C 85, RunRepeat: Nike Dunk Low, RunRepeat: New Balance 550, RunRepeat: New Balance 574, RunRepeat: Nike Air Max SC, RunRepeat: Vans Old Skool, RunRepeat: New Balance 2002R, RunRepeat: ASICS Gel-NYC, Captain Creps: sizing guides, manufacturer specifications.
Updated 3 Nov 2026How we decide