One-of-a-kind custom Vans. Be still our hearts. Or feet?

We are really into shoes around these parts. It's a great way for kids to express themselves, both at school and around town (or the skatepark, because somehow we always end up there). Up until now, mine have been borrowing my Sharpie to…

One-of-a-kind custom Vans. Be still our hearts. Or feet?
We are really into shoes around these parts. It's a great way for kids to express themselves, both at school and around town (or the skatepark, because somehow we always end up there). Up until now, mine have been borrowing my Sharpie to give their shoes some individual flair. Thankfully, there's a better way to accomplish this thanks to our friends at Vans. Look down at your shoes. Imagine if you could take each panel and rock a paint by numbers for your feet, right down to the lacing eyelets. Heck, you can forgo lacing altogether and choose the iconic slip-ons. Are you feeling bright or neutral? Silly or subdued? The coolest part about these custom Vans is that you get to see everything while you work, so if you choose a color that you don't dig, keep going until you feel complete.

No permanent marker involved. No couches stained.







These bad boys are just a wee bit pricier than your average pair of kicks, but keep in mind that these are made just for you, and only you, in sizes from toddler to adult. You also need a bit of patience, as it takes about six weeks from start to finish. So get on it now if you've got Christmas shoes on the brain. -Eva
Order your custom Vans online at Vans.com. They are even more awesome in person. And did you check out the Yo Gabba Gabba Vans collection? We are big fans.

More in KidsView all picks →

Q&A with children's author Sophie Blackall

Q&A with children's author Sophie Blackall

Cool Mom Picks readers, we are so excited to launch a new series for you. We are obsessed book lovers over here at the CMP headquarters, and we have a particular soft spot for children's books (even though we're moving our kids into coll…

New shoes to take you from summer to fall

New shoes to take you from summer to fall

Fall has a funny way of making everyone suddenly realize their sneakers are worn out, the kids have outgrown their boots, and Mom could really use a new pair of loafers. Fortunately, DSW makes the seasonal shoe shuffle considerably easie…

The sweetest back-to-school tradition

The sweetest back-to-school tradition

Back-to-school season doesn't have to be all backpacks, supply lists, and new sneakers. Sometimes the best way to mark a new school year is with something that feels a little more fun—and a lot less practical. Enter Build-A-Bear , where …