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Both are Vans models, but lasts differ. Authentic is labeled True to Size (True to size; half up if wide). Old Skool is True to Size (True to size; half up if wide).
Vans Authentic tracks classic Vans length — true to size with a slim, low-volume, shallow toebox. Wide feet may need half up. Minimal padding means a snug fit is normal out of the box.
Vans Old Skool fits true to size in length with a skate-oriented snug, shallow toebox. Average feet take their usual size; wide feet should half up or use Vans Wides rather than expecting the canvas to become a roomy sneaker.
Use the table below as a starting point from fit offsets — then confirm with try-on or returns. Width can matter more than length between these two.
| Authentic | Old Skool | |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict | True to Size | True to Size |
| Advice | True to size; half up if wide | True to size; half up if wide |
| Width | Low-profile slim silhouette | Can feel narrow/snug in toebox |
| Break-in | Canvas softens | Canvas softens |
| Fit offset | +0 | +0 |
| Confidence | high | high |
If the left model fits at the listed size, start here in the right model (chart + fit offsets).
| If Authentic fits | Try Old Skool | Note |
|---|---|---|
| US 7 | US 7 | offset +0 |
| US 7.5 | US 7.5 | offset +0 |
| US 8 | US 8 | offset +0 |
| US 8.5 | US 8.5 | offset +0 |
| US 9 | US 9 | offset +0 |
| US 9.5 | US 9.5 | offset +0 |
| US 10 | US 10 | offset +0 |
| US 10.5 | US 10.5 | offset +0 |
| US 11 | US 11 | offset +0 |
| US 12 | US 12 | offset +0 |
Check prices: Authentic Old Skool (paid link)
Full Authentic guide · Full Old Skool guide · Reverse compare · Open in converter