Inside the Tech of Vans AVE 2.0 Skate Shoes
Anthony Van Engelen: The Man Behind the Vans AVE Shoe
The skate shoe world has consistantly moved forward in innovation over the years, and Vans just dropped their most tech shoe yet with the Vans AVE 2.0.
Designed in collaboration with legendary skater Anthony Van Engelen, Ave aimed for this shoe to be different than the average pro model skate shoe. It's been built with structure, precision, and durability in mind. The AVE 2.0 blends decades of Vans' skate heritage with modern shoe tech.
Let’s dive into why this shoe may be a top choice for skaters looking for a high end shoe.
Vans AVE 2.0
If you’ve watched a skate video in the last 20 years, you know Anthony Van Engelen (AVE). Co-founder of Fucking Awesome and Hockey, 2015 Thrasher Skater of the Year, and a skateboarder known for his power and technical mastery, AVE has spent his career being part of the generation that redefined what’s possible on a board.
Since joining Vans in 2005, he’s pushed the brand to evolve, demanding shoes that match his no-bullshit approach to skating.
The AVE 2.0 marks his third signature shoe with Vans, following the original AVE Pro and the controversial AVE Knit. But he wanted to make a lot of modern changes for the Vans AVE 2.0. As AVE puts it: “20 years ago, skate shoes just gave the appearance of tech. Now, we’re in the future, where that technical design extends to the shoe’s performance.”
From Vans AVE Pro to Vans AVE 2.0: A Legacy of Innovation
The AVE lineage started in the mid-2000s with the AVE Pro, a cupsole shoe that balanced support and board feel. Over the years, Van Engelen and Vans iterated relentlessly—introducing the AVE Athletic for lighter weight, the AVE Knit for breathability, and now the AVE 2.0, which merges the best of both worlds.
What sets the Vans AVE 2.0 apart? It’s the first Vans skate shoe to combine a knit upper with suede reinforcements and RapidWeld construction. This isn’t just a design gimmick—it’s a response to skaters’ demands for shoes that last longer, fit better, and perform better, even with knitted construction.
Breaking Down the Tech: What Makes the AVE 2.0
: Breathability Meets Durability
The Vans AVE 2.0 features a technical knit upper with zonal construction. Stretch zones at the collar and forefoot create a snug, adaptive fit, while open knit panels on the midfoot maximize airflow. Dense knit around the heel provides structure and lockdown.
Suede reinforcements on the toe, vamp, and eyestays protect critical flick zones, and RapidWeld™ technology replaces traditional stitching with heat-welded seams. This results in fewer blowouts and a smoother, lighter build.
: UltimateWaffle™
Vans’ UltimateWaffle™ technology combines three layers: UltraCush™ foam for impact absorption, a TPU midfoot shank for torsional support during flip tricks, and SickStick™ rubber with zonal tread for grip where it matters most. This hybrid cupsole-vulc design delivers the board feel of a vulcanized sole with the cushioning of a cupsole, making it ideal for skaters who want responsiveness without sacrificing comfort.
: Locked In, No Slip
An external TPU heel cage wraps around the backfoot, eliminating heel lift during hard landings. Paired with a padded tongue and collar, this setup creates a secure, locked-in fit that remains comfortable and supportive throughout the shoes lifecycle.
Vans AVE Skate Shoe Technology
The Vans AVE 2.0 has been put through rigorous wear tests by Vans and AVE himself, proving itself as a performance-driven skate shoe. Testers highlighted its board feel as being top tier, with the UltraCush™ midsole absorbing impact without feeling overly soft. The snug fit, often compared to a football boot, keeps feet locked in during technical tricks, while the breathable upper is perfect for long summer sessions.
Durability stands out on the Vans Ave 2.0 thanks to the RapidWeld™ construction and Duracap™ reinforcements, which hold up well against grip tape abrasion. Even after weeks of skating, testers reported minimal wear. The fit is on the tighter side, which may not suit wider feet, but true-to-size sizing works well for most skaters.
Vans AVE 2.0
The first release in March 2024 introduced a “Cream” colourway with neon green accents. June saw new options like “Medium Grey,” “Lavender Fog/Black,” and “Bench Green.” These muted tones let the shoe’s technology and design shine, while pops of color on the heel cage and outsole add a signature touch. They follow the corporate shoe rule that tech shoes must include bright green.
For those who appreciate Ave's first model, later versions feature a mesh base with suede overlays, nodding to the original AVE Pro’s style.
A Highly Tech Skate Shoe
The Vans AVE 2.0 is a standout in a market where skate shoes often lean more toward style than substance. It’s the result of a brand truly listening to its athletes. Anthony Van Engelen’s drive to push boundaries has inspired Vans to innovate in ways that benefit every skater—delivering lightweight construction, seamless durability, and a hybrid sole that offers both support and board feel.
At 45, Van Engelen continues to influence both skateboarding and product design, ensuring that his legacy lives on in every pair.
Where to cop the Vans AVE 2.0?
The Vans AVE 2.0 is available at Vans’ webstore and select skate shops worldwide. With a price point of about £100, it’s a premium choice for those who don't mind stetching the budget in exchange for a perfect skate shoe.
In Conclusion
The Vans AVE 2.0 blends new technical innovation with Vans' skate heritage, resulting in a skate shoe that’s functional and forward-thinking. Whether you’re focused on technical tricks or all-day skate sessions, this shoe delivers the support, durability, and style you need.
As Anthony Van Engelen says, “True innovation creates both a high-performance skate shoe and excitement for what’s possible in the future.” The Vans AVE 2.0 embodies that spirit, setting a new standard for skate footwear.
