The Ultimate Vans Back-To-School Guide

Back-to-school is your chance to refresh your style game from head to toe. Whether you’re looking for the perfect pair of kicks, a great backpack, or some cool accessories, Vans has you covered. Here’s everything you need to know to crush your first day back in total Vans style.

Step into style: Get the perfect back-to-school shoes

Finding what shoes to get for back to school can feel like a serious mission. No stress! With Vans, it’s easy to find comfy and durable school shoes that still come with that unmistakable skate‑culture edge. Here are some of our top picks for what shoes to rock in the new term:

Vans Total Black

Need to stick to a uniform? Vans Total Black range is a head‑to‑toe blackout pack created for school uniforms. Each style comes in deep black from the outsole to the upper, so you stay dress‑code compliant.

Vans Classic Slip‑On

The slip-ons are the gateway back to school trainers for many Vans fans. They’re easy on, easy off—perfect if you’re late to that first period.

Knu Skool

A modern take on the skate shoe, Knu Skools come with a slightly chunkier sole for a fresh look.

Old Skools

These are the original side‑stripe legends. Each pair has reinforced toe caps and padded collars, which are great for durability.

Don’t forget: Seasonal sock and lace combos

If you’re looking to shake things up, think about new pairings with different socks and laces. For example, pair your Vans with rib‑knit crew socks in bold stripes, if your uniform allows. Or think white with a single black line or full black to match your Total Black slip‑ons. Swapping in neon‑accented laces can turn a simple Old Skool into a statement.

Limited‑edition drops

Plus, don’t overlook Vans’ seasonal collaborations. You’ll find everything from the classic checkerboard packed with new colours to artist‑designed prints – great for gym class.

So, whether you’re cruising the halls or just hanging out, Vans has the perfect answer to the question, what shoes should I get for school?

Choosing the perfect school backpack

Next up: the bag that carries all your essentials to and from school each day. A solid back-to-school backpack needs to be tough, roomy, and, of course, look great. Here are some of our top contenders:

Old Skool Check Backpack

Vans’ iconic checkerboard panels meet practical storage with the old skool check backpack. Plus, with handy compartments to keep books, notebooks, and chargers, you’ll always have everything organised. No more rummaging around.

Old Skool Classic Backpack

This backpack is all about timeless style and plenty of space. The classic front pouch is perfect for pens and your phone. Plus, your new Old Skool Pencil Pouch will find a spot, too.

Vans DX Rucksack

For those who carry more, the DX Rucksack offers extra capacity, plus it comes in a weather‑resistant fabric. Great for carrying your sports gear or art class projects.

All students know that comfort and ease of use is pretty much everything when it comes to a school backpack. When you choose a Van’s backpack, here’s what you get:
 

Tech‑ready compartments

If you’re carrying a laptop or tablet, keep an eye out for backpack options with a padded sleeve. Great for keeping tech safe and easy to slide in and out for quick classroom setups.

Old Skool Classic Backpack

This backpack is all about timeless style and plenty of space. The classic front pouch is perfect for pens and your phone. Plus, your new Old Skool Pencil Pouch will find a spot, too.

Ergonomic strap design

Your shoulders will thank you for adjustable, contoured straps that come with extra padding. Ideal when you’re hauling loads of textbooks, a water bottle, and maybe that snack stash.

Personalisation and patches

Most Vans backpacks come with a smooth front panel ready for you to personalise. It’s a great place to sew on pins or patches, or loop on a Vans keychain to make sure your bag stands out in the locker room.

Picking the perfect university backpack

When it comes to university, your backpack does more than just carry books—it’s your mobile campus HQ. You need something that can handle longer days while still looking sharp on campus. Whether you’re racing between lectures, hitting the library, or heading out for coffee, the right university bag makes all the difference. The Vans Old Skool Classic Backpack is a reliable choice with roomy compartments and a clean, understated look that fits any uni vibe.

For students hauling more than just notebooks—like laptops, gym kits, or art supplies—the DX Rucksack delivers serious storage and weather‑resistant fabric that stands up to your busiest days. Plus, padded straps mean your shoulders won’t feel the weight of a long day. 

School accessories guide

When it comes to your back-to-school look, it’s the little things that pull everything together. Here are some of our top picks for the accessories you’ll love in the first term and way beyond.

Old Skool Pencil Pouch

Keep all your pens, pencils and tech accessories together with the Old Skool Pencil Pouch. Bonus: match it to your backpack.

Essential OS Tee & Cameron Tee

Layer up this school season with soft, breathable tees that go perfectly under a hoodie or denim jacket.

Core layers

A lightweight, go-anywhere hoodie or long‑sleeve under your tee can help keep you toasty on those nippy school mornings. Plus, you can peel off layers as the day heats up.

Extra Laces and Keychains

Swap out traditional school shoe laces—try black for stealth or checkerboard for a pop—and clip on a Vans keychain for your locker or bike lock.

Locker decals and organisation

It’s easy to jazz up your locker door with a few magnetic Vans logo decals. A small mirror is also a great idea.

Protective tech gear

Keep your phone or portable charger scratch‑free in its own padded sleeve. Match it to your Old Skool Check Backpack or tuck it into the Old Skool Pencil Pouch for extra security.

Hydration

A durable water bottle that clips onto your bag with a carabiner means you’ve got a cool sip handy whenever you need it. Stainless steel bottles keep drinks ice‑cold—no more lukewarm sips in the middle of class.

So whether you’re thinking about what the best back-to-school shoes are or wondering what back-to-school backpack will last the year, Vans’ lineup hits every target. And with Vans’ student discount, you can gear up for less.

So lace up your Total Black slip‑ons or rock that new backpack down the hall—you’re officially ready to own this school year.