Kyle Walker's Signature — Built for Power Skating
Kyle Walker won Thrasher's Skater of the Year in 2016 by grinding a six-kink rail on camera and never looking back. He skates with raw power — big gaps, heavy rails, full commitment. His Wafflecup model is the latest version of the shoe he's been developing with Vans since his first pro model dropped in 2016, and it's built to take the same punishment he dishes out.
Sole & Boardfeel
The Wafflecup construction is a hybrid — cupsole support and durability through the midfoot and heel, with vulcanized-style boardfeel and flick in the forefoot. You get the locked-in feel of a cupsole without the stiff break-in or dead spots that come with a full cup. A reverse waffle tread in the heel adds extra rubber where you actually wear through, and a composite shank stiffens the rear foot for stability on impact. PopCush footbeds handle the cushioning — they absorb drops and reduce leg fatigue without making the shoe feel mushy underfoot.
Upper & Durability
Suede and 10 oz canvas upper with DuraCap underlays reinforcing the high-wear zones — ollie area, toe cap, medial panel. SickStick rubber compound (Vans' proprietary gum rubber with 55% natural rubber) on the outsole gives you consistent grip that doesn't wear slick after a few sessions. The Light Green/Gum colorway keeps it clean without showing grip tape dust the way white shoes do.
Fit & Comfort
Padded collar locks your heel in without bulk. Standard lace-up closure with a Kyle Walker patch on the tongue. Runs true to size for most feet — if you're between sizes, go up a half.
Who It's For
The Vans Kyle Walker Wafflecup is one of the best skate shoes for all-around street skating — especially if you need impact protection for gaps and stair sets but don't want to sacrifice boardfeel for flip tricks. It's a strong pick for skaters who are hard on shoes and want something that lasts without feeling like a boot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Vans Kyle Walker Wafflecup a vulcanized or cupsole shoe?
It's a hybrid. Vans' Wafflecup construction uses cupsole support and durability in the midfoot and heel, combined with vulcanized-style boardfeel and flexibility in the forefoot. You get the best of both — impact protection where you land and flick where you need it.
What type of skating is this shoe best for?
All-around street skating. The hybrid sole handles flip tricks, ledges, and rails while giving you enough cushion for gaps and stair sets. It's not a dedicated transition shoe, but it can hold its own in the bowl if that's part of your session.
What makes the Kyle Walker a pro model?
Kyle Walker is a Vans pro rider and Thrasher Magazine's 2016 Skater of the Year. He's been developing his signature shoe with Vans since 2016. The Wafflecup version includes his input on sole stiffness, shank placement, and tread pattern — it's designed around how he actually skates, not just his name on the tongue.
Does Parkside ship this shoe?
Yes — Parkside Skate Shop ships across the US from Columbia, Missouri. We also offer local pickup.