Brand: BAPE x Vans
Model: Old Skool 36 DX and Sk8-Hi 38 DX
Release Date: February 26, 2022
Price: TBC
Buy: Vans and BAPE stores, Vans.com and Vans.eu
Editor's Notes: There's nothing quite as beautiful as watching the relationship between two brands blossom into something special. From their first meeting to each new development unfolding before us, getting better and better with each drop.
No, you haven't ended up on the synopsis for a new Channing Tatum rom-com – this is all about BAPE and Vans.
The pair first came together for Fall/Winter 2021 with a collection that offered most of what you'd seek from both brands – classic skate silhouettes and a touch of camouflage flair. The risk-taking (which, frankly, BAPE is loved for) was relatively low but the collection still sold out fast and left fans clamoring for more.
For the upcoming collection, all caution has been thrown to the wind, with color, flair, and attitude dialed up to 100.
Served up first is the timeless Old Skool, a low-profile classic that doesn't require much in the way of reworking to make it a worthy sneaker within your seasonal rotation as recent appearances on Rihanna and Kim Kardashian have shown. When dipped in A Bathing Ape's classic green camouflage print, the sneaker's side-profile acquires a new depth, making each stride a statement.
Its classic white piping, lacing, and midsole remain, while the traditional suede portions get a mid-green update.
Where the collection really comes alive is the Sk8-Hi. Taking advantage of the sneaker's large surface area, the duo has dressed each panel in an alternative colorway of BAPE's camo, with blue and red portions giving off a striking contrast to the Vans checkerboard print that sits parallel. These aren't for the faint-hearted.
Much like last year's team-up, the footwear is complemented by an apparel release. Two t-shirts in understated black and white feature both brands' logos on the front and a vibrant illustration on the Vans x BAPE Sk8-Hi on the back.
Shop the collection here.
