Vans MTE, from the streets to the mountains
Over the years, skate shoes have transcended their initial purpose which is footwear designed to endure the tortures skateboarding throws them. Now they cross into mainstream footwear markets mainly because skate shoes are not only more durable than a common trainer - something in itself that is undoubtedly a perk - but also because they are aesthetically unique and encapsulate a cultural movement that many people want to emulate.
Vans shoes are a fantastic example of skate shoes that have become a staple for many people who would never normally entertain stepping on a skateboard. With that success, it only makes sense that they then attempt to enter another market where shoes are incredibly important... Outdoor adventure wear!
So, how have Vans done it? Well, firstly they took their most popular silhouettes such as the Sk8-Hi, Half Cab and the Old Skool and whilst mostly maintaining the original aesthetic, elevated them into functional shoes for mountains, snow, rain and anything else you can come to expect when out rambling, climbing or just generally out adventuring. Over time, this capsule collection has become the "Vans MTE (Mountain Edition)" range. Features such as lugged sole units, waterproof materials and insulated constructions are applied to these classic Vans silhouettes, helping them become a suitable footwear choice for people looking further afield than their local skatepark or street spot.
Shoe design and feature sets
However, as I'm sure you are aware, the spectrum of outdoor adventure is vast. For some people who reside in the more northern parts of the world, just walking to and from work can be a mini adventure in itself, potentially traversing icy streets and slippery stairs. Whereas others actively seek out landscapes that are brutally hard to travel across, both on their shoes and their body. These maniacs need footwear that's a little more refined than Kevin in Alaska trying to get to work on a snowy Monday morning. This then opened the doors for a genius move from Vans; rather than just whacking a load of outdoor upgrades onto their shoes, they have developed a three-tiered system to their MTE range, giving their customers the option of three different levels of elemental protection, designed to suit their specific lifestyle.
The most 'basic' version of the MTE range is the MTE-1, the closest design to the original 'skate' silhouette but with a baseline of functionality for somewhat difficult environments, whereas the MTE-3 is designed to be the absolute master of whatever gnarly conditions are thrown it's way. The MTE-2 is, as you might have guessed, the middle-ground between the two, containing more features than the MTE-1 but still more usable day-to-day than the MTE-3.
Due to the nature of outdoor shoes, some features that are vital for certain aspects of adventure can then sometimes hinder the performance of the shoe in a different environment. To use my imaginary friend Kevin from Alaska (great dude) as an example again, he will certainly want a lugged sole unit to help him walk to work without slipping, however, he still wants the shoe to be nice and flexible. However, the maniacs walking up treacherous mountains need lugged soles and shoes to be far more rigid to protect their feet and ankles on their perilous journeys. Still unsure which would best suit you? Let's break down the general differences between the three MTE options to help you decide!
Before we start, there are of course more MTE models than the Sk8-Hi, but due to it being the most abundant and popular in the Vans MTE range by far, I will use this silhouette as an example. The other models available, such as the Half Cab, will generally follow the same design guidelines as the Sk8-Hi, so everything mentioned below will apply to other MTE designs.
Vans MTE-1 collection
As mentioned earlier the MTE-1 is the least adorned with high-tech adventure technology, perfect for those who are after a warmer, more substantial Sk8-Hi that can happily navigate an average European winter, for example. However, there is still plenty to mention when it comes to the MTE-1. Firstly, and most obviously, grippy lugged soles and a high-traction rubber compound are used for the sole unit. A HydroGuard™ waterproof membrane is placed around the foot, keeping your feet dry from splashes and puddles, PrimaLoft® zonal insulation is also used inside the shoe keeping your feet lovely and warm regardless of what the weather is doing outside, and Vans' UltraCush™ sockliner is also used, ensuring your feet are comfortable regardless how long you are rambling around for. All this, alongside weather-proofed outer materials, already creates a pretty capable outdoor shoe, and remember, this is the base model!
Vans MTE-2 collection
When it comes to the MTE-2 many of the features mentioned above have been improved, creating a more capable outdoor shoe but still maintaining its casual day-to-day function. The outsole holds the same shape but with an improved rubber compound named All-Trac™, designed to keep you stable on difficult terrain. The HydroGuard™ waterproof membrane is moved further up the boot, creating a higher waterline before the shoe begins to let some moisture in. Finally, the UltraCush™ sock liner has an additional OrthoLite® top sheet, creating an even more comfortable insole.
Vans MTE-3 collection
Now, The MTE-3 is a bit of a different beast compared to the other two models, designed for basically anything Mother Earth can put them through. The technology placed inside these is a different gravy compared to the other models. Gore-Tex internal booties, guaranteed to keep your feet dry are standard, 3M Thinsulate™ insulation is used inside the boot, a triple-density comfort package featuring a single-density moulded open-cell PU sockliner, as well as an UltraCush™ EVA midsole with toe and heel protection, and a moulded asymmetrical TPU arch cradle are all found within too, creating a boot that just can't ever be uncomfortable and performs at an incredibly high level.
I think it's safe to say that the MTE-1 and MTE-2 are both perfect options for your average Joe, ideal for those winter days and to be honest probably most adventures you or I will experience in life. They are the ultimate shoe for combining function with fashion, maintaining the same aesthetic you would have whilst skating to your local spot or even just walking to the shops on a summer's day. The MTE-3 however, is for the hardcore adventurers, or as I've been calling them so far, maniacs. Those friends you have who mention the desire to do the three-peak challenge as quickly as possible without sleeping in between the climbs, and then go and actually do it. Maniacs. So, with all this new information regarding the MTE range, which pair are you picking?
