Gear News

Vans release the Vans Era Pro in iconic Checkerboard

"All I need is some tasty waves, a cool buzz and I'm fine..."

It’s hard to think of a more iconic pairing than that of Vans and the checkerboard motif, so fans of both are likely to be happy with this latest reiteration, especially with it coming via the ultimate and original skate-specific Vans silhouette.

Originally born in Southern California and showcased on the world stage by legendary inspirational stoner Jeff Spicoli, (played by Sean Penn in the classic 1982 movie ‘Fast Times at Ridgemont High‘), the iconic checkerboard design is now synonymous with Vans and has stood the test of time as one of the most popular of all the brand’s contributions to both skate and wider popular culture.

Since we’ve mentioned the fact that the Jeff Spicoli character from Amy Heckerling‘s 1982 movie played a huge hand in bringing the Vans checkerboard motif to the wider world, it seems appropriate to give Spicoli a little love here, partly because he’s one of the most loveable characters in modern American cinema, and also just in case some of you are unaware of the character, or the film itself.
You’ll find a couple of the most famous scenes from the film peppered throughout this article for the sake of context – if you haven’t already watched it, go do so now – it’s fantastic.

Bringing the globally-recognized print to the streets and up to speed, Vans are happy to present the Era Pro in Checkerboard, showcasing an elevated, performance-driven take on the original Era icon.
As the first silhouette designed by skaters for skateboarding, the Era Pro’s inception began when skate legend Tony Alva partnered with Vans by adding a padded collar and heel cap to the original Authentic to create the Era. Fast forward 40 years and the Era is fully engineered with Vans Pro Classics specifications, offering high impact UltraCush HD cushioning sockliners, Pro Vulc construction for better boardfeel, and lasting Duracap rubber reinforcements. The Era Pro remains as timeless as ever, combining two icons into one modern-day classic.

The Era Pro joins a growing list of heavy hitter Pro Classics, available now in a range of Checkerboard styles, including the Sk8-Hi Pro, Old Skool Pro, and Slip-On Pro. Backed by long-term Vans Era repping and neo-Rocco Jason Dill, along with emerging super pro-in-waiting Rowan Zorilla, it seems undeniable that the Checkerboard is going to remain as central to Vans skate shoe output as ever.

Find out more on the genesis of the Vans Era itself, and uncover some more generally related nuggets of skateboard shoe history by directing yourselves to this Brief History of Skate Shoes.