Vans has recently released two new sneakers from their Vans Vault line which include the Vans Slip-On LX and the Vans Sk8-Hi LX. Don’t quote us on this but it seems as though both shoes were inspired by Paul Smith’s signature stripe pattern. The shoes are now available at Vans Vault retailers such as Flauge.
The Vans Vault line is a sub line of Vans that allows designers and artist to experiment and play around with new designs. Here is the latest from the Vault collection which is a Mountain Edition Hi LX. This Mt. Edition features a checkered pattered, suede material and a toe box strap. This shoe comes in two colorways and is available now at Essense.
Back in December, Coarsetoys released a 1:3 Butchers Block Berlin Edition for the opening of the Vans store in Berlin. The figure was much sought after but was only available at the Vans store. Luckily, those looking for this figure might have another stab at getting it. This upcoming release dubbed “Flake” Pain Edition will site 25 inches tall and will come in a wooden box. We’re guessing that these will be quite limited as you can only get this figure at the Vans stores in London, Berlin, Paris, Barcelona and Utrecht. Collectors from the States will also be able to get one at Rotofugi and MunkyKing. “Flake” will retail for $320 USD and will be released near the end of January.
Image: Crazytoyz 0709
Vans has teamed up with the artist SheOne and brand Addict for a very beautiful collaboration sneaker. Using the Vans SK8-Hi model as the canvas, SheOne has amazingly turned a normal skate shoe into a piece of artwork. The colorway choice for this shoe is great as well. Even though a eye catching red is used, this shoe remains very elegant and most importantly, wearable. Hopefully we’ll have more information soon but we’re definitely looking forward to this release.
Image: Kicks on Fire via Guillotine
For artist Dennis McNett, as a child his beginnings with drawings would draw encouragement from his blind grandfather. Soon after as a teenager, 80s skate graphics would drive this artist and lead him to various projects including Cannonball Press and Anti-Hero Skateboards. He was recently enlisted by Vans to produce a special collection. The collection includes footwear such as the Rowley Shambles, No Skool 2 Mid, AV Skate Low and TNT3 Slip On alongside t-shirts for each respective model. Look for these to be available this spring.
Image: mashKulture
The Vault series from Vans has recently been unveiled. The broad collection for 2008 Spring/Summer finds it’s inspiration from nature, art and Van’s own roots of surf and skate. These themes are intermingled with simplistic designs and designer fabrics which compliment each other. A full preview can be seen here.
A new shipment of Vans has arrived at Japanese sneaker retailer ABC-Mart (not to be confused with some sketchy corner store). Aside from your regular staple of Half Cabs, Eras and the like comes some more contemporary vintage inspired models such as the TNT II, J-Lay and No Skool 2 Mid. Check in with your local Vans stockist for availability and details.
Here’s a look at a series of samples from Vans’ Mexican Blanket pack. The shoes feature materials similar to Mexican blankets often seen in various tourist destinations. These blankets are often woven with bright colorful patterns. These releases are a bit more understated with a predominately black weave with the odd bits of colorful lines. No word yet on availability.
Image: Sneaker Freaker
Although those ugly zigzag Christmas sweaters are all but put away in the closet for another year, Vans can keep the holiday cheer going year round with a pair of knit Chukkas. The black, gray and white upper includes a suede toebox. Check your local Vans dealer for availability.
Image: Complex
Artist Grime boasts an impressive array of skills and talents as a tattoo artist, painter and writer. With the chilling account of his personal life from 1999-2000 seen in his book Grime: Two Year Autopsy, his visions and creativity have found a new home with his designs seen on an upcoming collection of Vans Syndicate. The Half Cabs and Slip-On each possess highly detailed prints depicting Grime’s raw and real nature. No word yet on availability.
Info/Image: Crooked Tongues
Legendary guitarist Johnny Ramone has been given tribute by iconic Californian brand Vans. A pair of Slip-Ons depicts Johnny Ramone rocking out with his signature at the tip of the toebox. Johnny Ramone can also be seen on the midsole with an embroidered quote on the heel. A set of apparel will also accompany the release. No word yet on a release date.
Info/Image: Conope
Vans recently kicked off the Dragon Chasers Exhibition at Leftfoot Gallery in Taipei. The exhibition was a mixture of art and some of Vans’ most important releases in recent memory. The theme of the show is based around the Asian cultural concept of “Dragon Chasers”. The metaphor of dragon chasing signifies the Asian attitude of attempting to exceed their limits, chasing something that is impossible. The art was created by Singaporean artist Jahan. The exhibition concludes on January 1st, 2008.
Leftfoot Gallery
No. 38 Dun Hwa South Road
Sec 1, Alley 161
Taipei, Taiwan
Tel: +886-227513227