Which is better for actual skateboarding?

The Vans Old Skool. It has reinforced toe caps, padded collars and a waffle outsole built for board grip. The Dunk Low is a skate-style shoe but its fabric upper wears faster against grip tape.

Which has the plaid showing?

The Nike Dunk Low Premium. Its tartan plaid is on the upper. The Vans keeps plaid on the textile lining, with green pig suede outside.

Is the Nike worth the extra $20?

Only if you want the visible plaid and the Dunk Low Premium shape. At $130.00 versus $109.57, the Vans gives you a tougher upper and outsole for less.

Which lasts longer with daily wear?

The Vans, generally. Suede and reinforced toe caps hold up better than a fabric upper. The Nike's plaid fabric is more prone to scuffs and staining.

Do both come in size 12?

The Vans listing is size 12. Check the Nike listing for your size before ordering, since stock on a 2023 release varies by store.

Which is easier to find in stock?

The Nike, with three stores pricing it new as of November 5, 2026, against one for the Vans. More stores means more size options to compare.

Vans Old Skool Plaid Sneakers vs Nike Dunk Low Premium Tartan Plaid

Buy the Vans Old Skool if you want a durable everyday skate shoe with a suede upper and a hidden plaid lining. Buy the Nike Dunk Low Premium if you want the plaid on the outside and a more collectible 2023 release. The Vans is cheaper at $109.57 at Walmart as of November 5, 2026, against $130.00 at RICH OFF CLOTING SNKRS for the Nike.

Today the Vans Old Skool Plaid Sneakers costs $20.43 less at its best price.

Ask our shopping agent

It checks today's price at every store, compares the alternatives and answers in about a minute.