The Vans AVE 2.0 sneaker is getting a stealthy charcoal and black makeover. Which, for an already techy-looking sneaker, only makes it look meaner. 

Vans builds the upper from a specialty knit mapped for stretch and support, then overlays suede in the high-wear zones so you don’t blow through the toe in a week. 

The AVE 2.0’s TPU heel cage locks the back of your foot when you’re coming off something sketchy.

Underneath, the waffle outsole does the balancing act skaters actually need, providing cushioned landings as well as sticky grip.

Aesthetically, this shoe splits the difference between new-school tech and old-school skatewear aesthetics. You can see remnants of the Vans Old Skool sneaker in the jazz stripe branding and shape, but the lightweight materials are considerably more advanced. 

Designed in collaboration with the legendary skateboarder Anthony Van Engelen, Vans AVE has been pushing the boundaries of skate footwear for years. The Vans AVE 2.0 remains the brand’s most advanced take. And it’s available now for $120 on Vans’ website.

Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase. Want to shop the products our editors actually love? Visit the HS Style Guide for recs on all things fashion, footwear, and beauty.