IN A NUTSHELL
- Boat shoes are back in heavy rotation across fashion right now
- Vans introduces the 2 Eyelet Boat Shoe inspired by its archival Zapato Del Barco
- The silhouette blends classic nautical design with Vans skate DNA
We have definitely been seeing a strong wave of boat shoes dominating the fashion and footwear scene lately.
While the Timberland Classic Boat 2 Eye Shoe continues to be a go to favourite, Vans has entered the conversation with its own take on the silhouette. The new Vans 2 Eyelet model takes the familiar skate sneaker into something more refined, tapping into the resurgence of nautical style.
It could be argued that boat shoes have never truly gone out of fashion, but over the past year the silhouette has experienced a noticeable revival. Vans leans into this momentum by fusing traditional deck shoe elements with its Off The Wall identity.
The upper features classic boat shoe construction complete with Vans branding, two eyelet detailing and lacing that loops around the collar of the shoe, staying true to maritime roots.
Available in Black or Tan Brown leather, the 2 Eyelet Boat Shoe offers a smooth and durable finish that elevates the look while keeping it versatile. At the base, Vans adds its signature vulcanized rubber sole unit, ensuring the shoe remains skate ready with a flexible yet strong board feel. It is that balance between polish and performance that sets this pair apart.
Originally released as part of the Vans Japan Fall Winter 2024 collection, the silhouette draws inspiration from an archival Vans design known as the Zapato Del Barco. Now reintroduced to a wider audience, the 2 Eyelet Boat Shoe capitalises on the trending aesthetic while remaining rooted in the brand’s heritage. Vans has been on a strong run remixing timeless styles, and this latest drop proves that even a classic deck shoe can get the full skate treatment.
While the shoe is not yet available here in South Africa, we’re hoping the model will hit the shelves in coming months.
Is this a silhouette you’ll be adding to your collection?
