The NeverEnding Evolution of the Vans Ultrarange

Vans saw the technical outerwear tsunami coming a mile off.

Testament to that foresight is the latest Ultrarange drop, the Neo VR3. Which certainly wasn’t developed in a vacuum. In fact, it’s been a part of the surf program since seasoned ‘QS warrior Patty Gudauskas was in need of some marginal gains, went to the design team and said, “I love a pair of Slip-Ons as much as the next brother, but when I’m dragging my coffin at 3am to catch the bus at Lisbon airport, just got off the red eye from Cape Town, 6am heat in the Azores 2 star the next day – I need a shoe that does everything!” Vans listened, and their latest iteration dropped just in time for NH spring. The Vans surf team spearheading the bulk of the R&D, once again.

Never ones to sit idly by, Vans weren’t content to “stick to skate”, and instead began pursuing footwear – under the broader Ultrarange banner – aimed at handling anything Mother Nature could chose to throw at you on any particular day. Where that project is currently at – as clearly demonstrated by the accompanying VR3 visuals – is the perfect marriage of tech, look and feel. Let’s examine.

The Ultrarange Neo VR3s come in two unisex colour ways – Light Green/Black and Yellow/Multi – and is perhaps the most street-ready Ultras yet. As perfect for hiking up yonder mountain trail as they are for kicking balls in the park, or slurping expertly made long blacks on leafy streets alike. Furthermore, the design and materials have been tweaked and elevated in the never-ending pursuit of Vans function and comfort nirvana.

The Neo VR3s have a fresh shape for improved fit and some added arch support for lengthy treks (checking the surf and otherwise). And the materials are high-end and as ethical as possible – either sustainably sourced, renewable or recycled. For instance, the upper part of the VR3s is made from 100% recycled plastic (PET) bottles, the midsoles are made from a bio-based blend EVA foam and the classic waffle is now made from a mix of regeneratively grown natural rubber.

It’s easy to get lost in the hype vortex of 2020s footwear, but if you’re looking to get into the technical game without re-mortgaging, then the Vans Ultra range is the perfect entry. The Neo VR3s are nothing short of a great-looking, technically advanced shoe that you can do literally anything in – peak footwear.

Ultimate footwear lives here.