Vans UltraRange 2.0 Review | Wider Fit and Better Durability

1. You do heavy lifting or high-volume dynamic training like CrossFit or Hyrox. I found the midsole starts to compress a bit when passing 450 lbs with deadlifts in these.
2. You have a very thick foot or high instep. The upper is improved, but still limiting and a little low-profile in the forefoot.
3. You live in a hot climate and need airflow. Be warned, this shoe runs warm if you cop the suede option. Look for the mesh 2.0 for more breathability.

Sizing and Fit Suggestions

About My Feet: I have a normal arch/instep and my feet come in at an E/EE width. The length of my left and right foot are consistent with one another, and I size as a true US 10 for most companies’ sizing charts. 

Fit Breakdown:

• Narrow (<D) Width Feet: True to size. 
• Medium (D) Width Feet: True to size.
• E and EE Width Feet: True to size.
• 3E+ Width Feet: Go up a half size.

For standard and slightly wide feet (up to an EE width), the UltraRange 2.0 fits true to size. It’s noticeably wider than the EXO, especially through the forefoot and midfoot.

For very wide feet (3E and up), consider going up a half size. Custom orthotics or thick insoles may feel cramped since the stock insole is not easily removable, it’s held in with adhesive. You can remove it at your own risk, but it’s not designed for easy swaps and likely will never lay correct again if it’s removed.

If you struggled with EXO’s narrow width and constricting upper volume, this is a major step in the right direction. The redesign makes it more forgiving.

Performance Breakdown

Good General Lifter: 8.2/10

The UltraRange 2.0 performs similarly to the original EXO when it comes to lifting. The outsole grip is solid, and the wider platform gives you a bit more stability than its predecessor.

It’s great for moderate free weight sessions, machine work, and anything under about 450 lbs. In short, it’s going to perform for most everyone, and it’s going to feel great while doing it.

Push beyond that 450 lb threshold though and you’ll feel the UltraCush midsole start to compress. The 7mm heel-to-toe drop does help maintain a heel-biased stance, which is nice for quad-dominant lifts and machines.

If you’re doing squats, leg presses, rows, or upper-body isolation work, this shoe will get the job done and then some. It’s not going to replace my dedicated lifters anytime soon, but that’s also not what it’s built for.

An Adequate Cross-Trainer: 8/10

This is where the improvements get a little mixed.

The grip on turf and rubber floors is excellent. And the UltraCush midsole still delivers a decent amount of pop. The reinforced upper holds your foot in place well, largely thanks to the gusseted tongue and restructured overlays.

The shoe’s added bulk makes it feel sluggish during dynamic movements. If you’re doing fast-paced circuits, plyos, or agility work, you’ll notice the drag. Lateral movements, in particular, can feel a bit clunky if you’re used to a more streamlined training shoe. That said, the lockdown is solid, and the shoe never felt unstable.

Solid Short Runner: 7/10

I’m not going out for a 10K in these. But for short intervals, a short mile warm up or cool down, or casual jogs…Dare I say up to 3 miles? Totally doable. However, I’d say anything under 1.5 miles is probably the sweetspot for most in these.

The midsole has just enough cushion to protect your joints on concrete, and the wider base helps you feel stable even when fatigue sets in. The upper holds up well under repetitive motion without slipping or collapsing.

The added weight and warmth will become more noticeable the longer you’re out, so keep your runs short and sweet. I also wouldn’t run in hot climates in these shoes, the lack of breathability will become a factor pretty quickly.

Go-To Daily Driver: 9.4/10

Here’s where the UltraRange 2.0 really shines.

The extra width, the beefed-up heel structure, and the cushioned midsole all make this a great shoe for all-day wear. Whether you’re running errands, walking the city, or traveling, this shoe holds up.

It blends comfort and style well, and the build quality gives it some real longevity. You can beat these up without worrying about breakdown after a couple of months of wear. Give them a week or two to break in and they’ll quickly become a go-to for you.

Construction Details

The UltraRange 2.0 weighs in at 11.80 ounces in a US men’s size 10 and features a 7mm heel-to-toe drop. The midsole uses Vans’ UltraCush Light foam, which now has a smoother finish compared to the gritty texture of the EXO. I kind of miss the gritty texture to be honest, but I have to admit the smooth finish gives it a more refined look and makes it feel a little more premium.

The insole is non-removable and held in with adhesive. You can technically remove it, but not without risking damage. That might be a limiting factor if you rely on custom orthotics or have higher volume feet.

The upper blends suede, TPU, and mesh in the forefoot and transitions into more suede and mesh overlays through the midfoot and heel. The heel counter has been restructured with a suede overlay for better lockdown and a sturdier feel overall.

You get six core eyelets with a seventh for lace-locking. The tongue is gusseted, made from padded mesh, and while it functions well for most feet, it does feel a bit short. It’s especially awkward if you’re using that top eyelet or have a high instep.

The outsole features a diamond tread pattern with tighter spacing in the forefoot and midfoot. This gives the shoe a bit more break and flexibility without sacrificing durability, especially on turf and rubber surfaces. The lugs have been re-worked and deepened, minimizing the exposed foam underneath to help add some longevity and durability.

Final Thoughts: Would I Buy Again?

The Vans UltraRange 2.0 is a solid evolution of a shoe that always felt like it was one or two steps away from greatness. The widened fit, restructured upper, and improved outsole all speak to a design team listening to athlete and customer feedback.

For all the progress it made, it also took a slight step back with the added bulk and reduced breathability.

If you’re someone who values versatility, needs a shoe that works just as well on the gym floor as it does on the streets, and appreciates a little extra room in the toe box, the UltraRange 2.0 delivers.

I would absolutely buy these again. Vans didn’t reinvent the wheel; they just made a better one.