Mark my words: the Vans trainer trend is about to take off all over again. How do I know? For one, online marketplace and clothing reseller StockX has reported a remarkable 209% year-on-year increase in Vans sales. And if that wasn’t enough, Sofia Richie-Grainge has just stepped out wearing a pair herself.
Spotted during an off-duty outing in L.A., Sofia skipped sandals in favour of a “dated” pair of Vans checkerboard slip-ons. Once the defining trainer trend of the early 2010s, the iconic style is gearing up for a resurgence right now. “Vans is the brand I keep coming back to when I think about what’s resonating right now,” said Rachel Makar, Senior Director of Merchandising at StockX “Sales are up more than 200% year-over-year on StockX, average resale prices are up 73%, and it’s now a top 15 most-searched brand on our platform in 2026—which is a significant signal.”
(Image credit: Backgrid)
Following seasons of changing trainer trends, Vans’ classic slip-ons offer familiarity, as well as comfort and styling ease. Whilst Sofia wore hers with relaxed grey track trousers for an understated off-duty look, anyone who wore them during their first wave of popularity will remember just how well they work with straight-leg jeans and denim shorts as well.
If, like me, you’re suddenly tempted to revisit this nostalgic trainer, keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best Vans styles below.
Shop Van Trainers:
Vans
Classic Slip-On Checkerboard
Shop the shoe trend Sofia loves.
Vans Old Skool trainers will never go out of style.
Every great wardrobe starts a pair of white trainers.
Add a pop of colour to your summer rotation.
The low-profile trainer trend isn’t showing any signs of slowing down.
Vans
Satoshi Nakamoto Round Lucky Charm
The lucky charm embellishments add a layer of intrigue to these classic shoes.
The chocolate brown colour trend isn’t showing any signs of slowing down.
These also come in half sizes, so you can find your perfect fit.
In my opinion, the black and navy colour combination always looks chic.
