Vans Old Skool Tapered Shoes. Vans’ purpose is to enable creative expression by encouraging the “Off The Wall” spirit that comes from expressing your true self. As part of our commitment to inspire youth culture, we recognize that we have a responsibility to move towards circular products and systems that use regenerative and recycled materials, design out waste, and create systems that keep product in use and out of landfills. As an initial step in our journey towards sustainability, the Eco Theory Old Skool Tapered is made with recycled textile uppers featuring a stone wash and statement stitching along the uppers and sidestripes. Along with a responsibly sourced natural rubber outsole that still maintains the grip and durability that Vans has been known for since 1966, this deconstructed lace-up shoe includes metal eyelets and renewable jute laces. The upper materials are made with recycled textiles. This all-new Vans Rubber Compound is made from responsibly sourced natural rubber (instead of petroleum derived synthetic rubber) obtained from sources that follow proven ethical and sustainable practices that minimize harm and have positive benefits within the natural and social ecosystems in which they operate. This new natural rubber compound was developed and engineered to maintain the grip and durability that Vans has been known for since 1966. This natural fiber is grown with minimal water and is considered a fast growing renewable crop.