First introduced in 1977, the Vans Style 36, now famously known as the Old Skool, holds a significant place in the brand’s history. It was the second skate shoe ever produced by Vans and the first to sport the now-iconic Sidestripe™, a visual signature that would connect generations of skaters and subcultures. Initially designed for and by the pioneers of skateboarding, the Old Skool quickly transcended its athletic origins, becoming a symbol of rebellion and artistic expression, particularly within underground music scenes. Today, Vans celebrates this enduring connection with the introduction of the Premium Old Skool Music Collection, a series of releases that pay homage to the Old Skool’s evolution through different musical eras and genres.
The collection is thoughtfully divided into three distinct capsules, each drawing inspiration from pivotal moments in music history and the Old Skool’s role within them. The initial release features a striking leopard print and bold solid colorways, evoking the spirit of the original punk and hardcore musicians of the ’70s and ’80s who embraced the shoe as part of their non-conformist aesthetic. Following this, the second capsule captures the vibrant energy of the Y2K era and the Warped Tour, incorporating classic Checkerboard patterns, dual-tone designs, and fiery flame prints. The final capsule shines a light on the influence of underground hip-hop, with energetic colorways set against gum soles, reminiscent of the time when this genre propelled the Old Skool into new cultural territories. Each capsule is a testament to the Old Skool’s core values of non-conformity and boundary-pushing innovation, principles that have defined the shoe since its inception.
Recognizing the need for modern comfort and enhanced performance, the Vans Premium Old Skool Build represents an evolution of this iconic silhouette. This updated version is meticulously crafted with refined materials and advanced construction techniques. It offers improved cushioning through 30% biobased Sola Foam ADC insoles, ensuring all-day comfort and a superior fit. The design also features glossy sidewalls, higher foxing tape, and throwback branding, echoing the aesthetic details found in Vans footwear from the ’90s. This blend of archival design and contemporary technology ensures the Premium Old Skool Build honors its heritage while meeting the demands of today’s wearer.
To bring the Premium Old Skool Music Collection to life, Vans has collaborated with a diverse group of musicians who embody raw emotion and passion in their craft. These artists, including the high-energy punk band The Paranoyds, the Indonesian all-female metal group Voice of Baceprot, the critically acclaimed UK rapper Little Simz, and the Detroit-based dance crew Hi-Tech, were chosen for their powerful artistic voices and their commitment to the “Off The Wall” spirit. These artists are not only shaping cultural narratives through their creative endeavors but also inspiring others to embrace individuality and push creative boundaries, all while wearing the iconic Old Skool. Exploring more music from these artists can offer a deeper understanding of the sounds that influenced this collection, perhaps by delving into curated playlists like youtube music playlist oldies.
The Vans Premium Old Skool Music Collection began its rollout on February 6, with subsequent releases planned monthly. These exclusive collections are available at Vans retail locations worldwide and online at Vans.com.
About Vans
Vans®, a brand of VF Corporation (NYSE: VFC), stands as the leading global provider of skateboarding footwear, apparel, and accessories. With a presence in over 100 countries, Vans® operates through a network of subsidiaries, distributors, and international offices, and boasts more than 2,000 retail locations globally. The Vans® brand champions the “Off the Wall” ethos, embodying youthful freedom, non-conformity, and a relentless drive to push culture forward across action sports, music, art, and design.
Vans, “Off the Wall” Since ’66
For more on Vans and their inspirations, you can explore their official website at www.vans.com, follow them on YouTube at youtube.com/vans, engage on TikTok at tiktok.com/@vans, share on Instagram at instagram.com/vans, and connect on Facebook at facebook.com/vans.
SOURCE: Vans