Vans released a pack of their SK8-HIs exclusively to Japanese online retailer Flauge. The be blunt, the SK8-HIs are rather un-inspired with a rehashing of Vans classic checkerboard print with a printed midsole. Four colors are available include red/white, black/green, black/yellow and black/white. Available now at Flauge.
We’d be weary of wearing an all-over print pair of sneakers which pictures banana totting monkeys, however a redeeming quality might be that cute girls take pity on you. For the time being it appears as though Slip-Ons and Authentics are in the mix for this particular pack of skating primates with three different colorways available.
Info/Image: Sneaker Freaker
An early look into COMME des GARÇONS designer Junya Watanabe’s team up with everybody’s classic favorite Vans has surfaced. The black leather SK8-HI features contrast stitching, custom insole and what appears to be woven leather laces. No word on availability.
Image: Shinsuke Takizawa.
If you need casual onlookers to give you the “hey cool shoes” compliment, Vans recently released a pack of Metallic Big Tongue Old Skools and SK8-HIs to make you feel better about yourself. Each pair features a thick tongue and shiny metallic upper in either gold or silver. Available now through ABC Mart.
Vans previously created a collection of shoe with hi fashion designer Marc Jacobs and now it looks like Vans will be working with the leading British designer, Paul Smith for a collection of sneakers. Seen here are the Sk8 Hi and the Chukka which both utilizes Paul Smith’s signature pattern. Rumor has it that there will be other models included in this series including a Slip On and the Era. These will be available sometime in Spring of 2008.
Image: Footurama
Vans teamed up with Long-Beach California sneaker boutique Proper on a series of SK8 Hi models. The upper is constructed of silky satin and a special Proper tab can be seen along the heel. Three different colorways are available, purple, grey and navy blue. Available soon exclusively at Proper with a price tag of $85 USD.
Image: Sneaker Freaker
Japanese boutique/label United Arrows recently teamed up with Vans on the Mountain Edition. The Mountain Edition was recently dug up from the archives of Vans and released to the public once again. United Arrows gave the Mountain Edition a metallic treatment in both gold and silver. Fans of the Half-Cabs may appreciate the similar shape of the Mountain Edition, with the inclusion of a extra wide strap over the forefoot.
Punk band Bad Shit from San Francisco are the masterminds behind this Bad Shit x Vans Collection featuring TNT Mid II and TNT Slip-On III. The upper uses a combination of black/grey with a printed pattern. Be on the look out for these are select Vans dealers around the world.
Image: ripe
The latest Vans Syndicate x W)Taps No Guts No Glory SK8 Hi’s has dropped. A black suede toebox is highlighted by detailed printed canvas panels which comes in three different colors including white, orange and green. This marks yet another collaborative effort between Vans and W)Taps which has been a popular release in the past. Available now at Supply in Australia.
Image: Sneaker Freaker
Here’s a look at another rumoured Neck Face x Vans collaboration on the AV SK8 Lo. Previous Neck Face collaborations included a 4-shoe pack which included the SK8 Hi, AV Era, TNT II and DD 66. No word yet on release dates and whether other shoes will accompany this release.
Image: Footurama
Sneaker Freaker has offered a glimpse into the upcoming Vans Sk8 Hi Hosoi model. The Hosoi model features a design inspired by the Japanese naval ensign and is placed in an off-center position along the heel. Also available will be a Hosoi Era. The Hosoi models seen here are next generation colorways which were conceived on the success of the original Vans Hosoi release which featured similar design and colors. No word yet on a release date.