The Ultimate Review of Last Resort  AB Shoes VM001

Skaters worldwide are buzzing about Last Resort shoes, AB VM001 a brand that’s rapidly gaining attention in the skateboarding community. These shoes have sparked intense debates on social media, with some calling them the next big thing in skate footwear, while others question if they’re just another passing trend.

The growing curiosity about Last Resort shoes raises several questions: How do they actually perform on a skateboard? Are they worth their price tag? What distinguishes them from other skate shoes? Whether you’re considering your first pair or wondering about their fit and durability, this comprehensive review will answer all your questions about this emerging footwear brand.

In this detailed review, we’ll examine Last Resort’s brand history, analyze their build quality, test their performance, and help you decide if these shoes deserve a spot in your skating arsenal.

It is quite clear that Last Resort AB, a company owned by skaters, is effectively fulfilling its mission by producing high-quality products for skateboarders globally. This is not merely a promotional statement; upon reviewing their website, we discovered an impressive summer sale featuring classic models at half price. In our previous reviews of Last Resort AB products, we have consistently evaluated their vulcanized models. We noted that some of the CM models we tested left us desiring additional support and stability, which is typically associated with cupsole designs.

This time, we had the opportunity to test the VM001, a snug-fitting classic cupsole model that embodies the true essence of Last Resort AB. The shoe presents a subtly elegant appearance, with each detail meticulously crafted for a specific purpose. The recent colorways they have introduced evoke a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of classic skate shoes from earlier eras. We are pleased to share our reviews of the VM001 following our wear testing.

More read about  Last Resort AB VM003

Brand History and Design Philosophy

The story of Last Resort shoes begins in 2018 when Sami Toppi launched a high-end sneaker brand exclusively for the Japanese market. A chance meeting with longtime friend Pontus Alv in 2019 at a Portuguese beachfront bar transformed the company’s trajectory. Both shared a vision of breaking free from corporate skateboarding culture, leading to the rebirth of Last Resort AB as we know it today.

What sets Last Resort shoes apart is their unwavering commitment to skater-owned independence. “These shoes are made by and for skateboarders around the world,” explains Alv. ” We operate independently, without any corporate sponsorship or external directives influencing our actions.

Why Last Resort Shoes AB VM001 Best

The brand’s excellence stems from three core principles:

• Minimalist Design Philosophy: Clean silhouettes with subtle branding, focusing on function over flash
• Continuous Innovation: Regular upgrades like the “Cloud Cush” PU insole based on skater feedback
• Quality-First Approach: Carefully selected materials and vulcanized construction for optimal performance

Last Resort’s dedication to perfection shows in their attention to detail. Their outsoles are specifically designed to prevent gravel collection that could damage grip tape, while their emphasis on board feel demonstrates their deep understanding of skaters’ needs. This commitment to quality and functionality, combined with their independence from corporate influence, has earned them a devoted following in the skating community.

Build Quality and Materials Analysis

When it comes to construction quality, Last Resort shoes showcase premium craftsmanship that’s immediately apparent in their material selection. The brand utilizes high-grade suede and durable canvas combinations, with each material carefully chosen for specific performance attributes.

The construction features that set these shoes apart include:

• Reinforced stitching links the upper section to the suede eyelet.
• High foxing tape for enhanced durability
• Strategic positioning of materials in high-wear areas
• Premium vulcanized construction

What’s particularly impressive is how Last Resort maintains shape integrity throughout extended wear periods. During testing, the shoes demonstrated remarkable resilience, with no issues of “soggy sidewalls” or rippled suede toe pieces that often plague other skateboarding footwear.

The production quality control is notably stringent, with manufacturing taking place in Vietnam – a region renowned for vulcanized shoe expertise. Each production run undergoes thorough SGS inspection, ensuring consistent quality across all models. The brand’s commitment to quality is evident in their higher production costs, which translate to superior build quality in the final product.

Perhaps most impressive is the attention to detail in the sole construction. The pattern is specifically engineered to prevent small stones from getting lodged in the treads – a thoughtful feature that demonstrates Last Resort’s deep understanding of skaters’ needs. The thin insole and carefully calibrated midsole work together to create an optimal balance between protection and board feel.

Shape

The shape of the VM001 is a crucial aspect of its design. This shoe features a sleek and snug fit, purposefully crafted to safeguard the laces. Upon initial wear, the shoe exhibits remarkable flexibility. The heel and midfoot sections align parallel to one another, while the design gradually narrows towards the toe, culminating in an elegantly pointed toybox. It is noteworthy to highlight the difference experienced during the first wear compared to subsequent sessions: initially, the model may feel somewhat loose on the foot, but this initial impression can be misleading. After a few uses, the comfort level and fit significantly improve, as the shoe’s shape conforms closely to the contours of the feet.

Performance and Comfort Testing

After putting Last Resort shoes through rigorous testing sessions, the results reveal both impressive strengths and notable considerations. The shoes truly shine in their 10-hour wear test performance, demonstrating exceptional durability while maintaining structural integrity throughout intense skating sessions.

The performance highlights include:

• Excellent board feel despite the capsule construction
• Superior flick control for technical tricks
• Exceptional heel lock and stability
• Impressive grip longevity on various surfaces

While the slim-fitting silhouette provides excellent control, some skaters might need time adjusting to the fit, especially in the midfoot area. The shoes require a brief break-in period due to the thick suede, but once broken in, they offer reliable comfort for daily skating.

One particularly noteworthy feature is the shoe’s stability system. The high-cut heel area, combined with quality reinforcements, provides outstanding support during high-impact sessions. However, there are some trade-offs – the leather construction limits ventilation, and the tongue tends to shift during intense movements.

The grip performance strikes a balanced sweet spot – not too sticky like some vulcanized models, yet providing enough traction for precise foot positioning. This characteristic makes Last Resort shoes particularly well-suited for technical street skating and medium-impact tricks, though some riders might prefer more cushioning for larger gaps or stairs.

Conclusion

Last Resort shoes stand out as a compelling choice for dedicated skaters who value quality, performance, and authenticity. Their commitment to independence and skater-focused design shows through every aspect, from the carefully selected materials to the thoughtful features like gravel-resistant soles.

These shoes deliver exceptional board feel, durability, and stability that justify their price point. Though they need a brief break-in period and might run slim for some riders, the superior construction quality and performance benefits make them a worthwhile investment for serious skateboarders.

Last Resort AB VM001 has successfully carved out their place in skateboarding footwear by staying true to their roots and maintaining high production standards. Their attention to detail and continuous improvements based on real skater feedback prove they’re not just another trend – they’re built to last and designed to perform when it matters most.