Vans LX Authentic 44 Stars Marshmallow Black
Vans LX Authentic 44 Charms Black White
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Vans Authentic 44
Vans Authentic 44: The Vans Authentic 44 is the premium version of the Authentic, the shoe Vans started with in 1966. The 44 is its original style number. Vans lists it as the Premium Authentic, and in stores it's also called the LX Authentic 44.
Origins: the Style 44
Before it was called the Authentic, the Style 44 was a deck shoe, meant for the boat. In the '70s, skaters noticed how long its thick, treaded sole lasted and how much grip it gave on the board. In 1975, the Z-Boys wore the Style 44 at the Del Mar Nationals. The model has only carried the name Authentic since 1993.
Fit and feel
The Authentic sits flat and close to the ground. With the classic lacing you can adjust it tighter or looser. According to Vans, the LX version brings more cushioning and an improved fit. If the shoe feels tight on wide feet, Vans recommends going up a size. How it differs from the Old Skool 36 and the Classic Slip-On 98 is shown in the Vans overview.
The Authentic 44 at a glance
- Higher sidewall with a glossy finish
- Sola Foam insole (ADC, All-Day Comfort) for more cushioning
- Details from the archive, such as the striped stitch design at the heel
- Vulcanized construction and waffle sole like the original
- Two names, one line: Vans lists both the LX Authentic 44 and the LX Authentic Reissue 44 as the Premium Authentic
What is the difference between the Vans Authentic and the Authentic 44?
The Vans Authentic 44 is the premium version of the classic Authentic, named after style number 44 of the 1966 original. The shape, waffle sole and vulcanized construction stay, with the addition of a Sola Foam insole for more cushioning, a higher, glossy sidewall and details from the archive.
You can try on the Authentic 44 and other Vans LX at the concept store in Cologne and also order it online at Coziness.