Step into classic Vans style in the Sk8Hi. The inaugural member of Vans39 legendary legacy of high top skate shoes was the first to bring the supportive sensibilities of an athletic boot to the world of skating.The popularity of the Sk8Hi look followed suit, becoming a favourite amongst skaters, musicians, artists, and counter culture types alike.Today they remain in their original form, a perennial classic, built like they always have with sturdy canvas uppers, and waffle rubber soles. Laceup shoe Rubber sole. The Sk8-Hi was introduced in 1978 as Style 38, and showcased the now-iconic Vans Sidestripe on a new, innovative high top silhouette. As only the second model featuring the recognizable marker formerly known as the “jazz stripe,” the Sk8-Hi brought a whole new look to the Vans family. Honoring that first legendary high top, the Sk8-Hi is made with sturdy canvas uppers in a variety of classic and unexpected colorways. This lace-up shoe also includes re-enforced toe caps, supportive padded collars, and signature rubber waffle outsoles.