Got a pair of the red currens and thought it might be worthwhile to mention how it compares to the vulc classics it’s pulling inspiration from.
The biggest difference is the tread. In terms of grip, it’s probably just even a bit grippier than the classics. Though not sure how it holds up long term compared to the classics. In terms of feel, like when you scooch your feet around, they feel a bit more like blazers or even somewhat like the emerica Dickson’s/hobans.
The other main difference is the sidewall. It’s lower in the front than the classics by about the same size difference you see from classics and their “wrapped” version. But the foxing goes up to normal and maybe even a little bit higher than normal as it goes to the heel. I imagine it gives it more stability.
The upper feels pretty good. It actually feels like it’s got more meat than an old skool, it has just a bit more structured of a feel. This makes it feel more premium imo than the classics. But the ankle sits lower so i still think the old skool does get a more secure fit but it’s really not by much. It’s definitely way more than you get from an authentic/slip on/era. The currens have the heel padded pretty good at the sides with none at all at the back so it hugs it pretty well, and I didn’t have any issues with it digging into my achilles. I think the shoe it’s closest to in feeling was the Chima 2 and maybe a bit like the sport lows. One issue I had was that the placing of the eyelets makes it so I tear easily into the laces towards my heel.
The logo also isn’t really an issue if you fully lace them up, which I think feels better anyways. And they felt pretty tts for me.
TLDR; in between an era and an old skool and could be great for those who find the usual vulc wrap on vans to be a bit too much.