Making a real deal shredder even more punk rock? Don't threaten Vans with a good time. Already chunky as can be, Vans upped the grunge factor on its thick Knu Skool sneaker with silver stud detailing at the heel.

It's like a skate shoe — with its ears pierced.

This punk rock energy is carried throughout the sneaker with a 3D black leather Jazz Stripe and a full suede upper that provides some nice contrast to the shoe's darker detailing. The simple studs at the heel round out the sneaker’s edgy upgrades, allowing the shoe to join a sizeable lineage of extravagant Knu Skool sneakers.

See, the thick thrasher has already been the backdrop for many bejeweled upgrades, including pearlized toe-trimming and equally gemmed-out lace adornments. This studded Knu Skool is the newest member of the decorated sneakers.

This juxtaposition gives the Knu Skool sneaker, ordinarily available on the Vans website for $100, some tangible duality: rugged skate shoe meets dainty jewelry. While the Knu Skool is certainly the most robust of the draped-up and dripped-out skate sneaker offerings out there, it is not the only Vans sneaker doing big things by way of over-accessorizing. 

Stylish shredders like the bracelet-wearing Era 95, the Chanel bag-inspired Old Skool 36, and the super slept-on Gucci x Vans spiked-up slip-on all embody the skate house’s inclination towards rugged gems. When it comes to putting jewels, studs, and stones on rugged shredders, Vans gets down. Big time. 

Still, there is something undeniably enigmatic about a full-on thrasher wearing actual jewelry. Maybe it’s just that, in the world of superior skate shoes, incongruity is the most coveted metric of all.

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.