Vans launches new surf-inspired sneakers that respect the environment

Are Vans timeless? Under parent company VF Corp., Vans saw double-digit growth every year between 2004 and 2019. But the momentum of the California brand founded in 1966 has started to falter as of late, as Fashion business : its sales increased by 24% between March 2018 and March 2019, but decreased by 13% in the last quarter of 2022. To compensate for this decline, the sneaker brand is therefore looking to innovate. And for this, in addition to many collaborations, Vans signs a new collection inspired by the world of surfing, which can clearly be diverted to the city.

Vans launches its Slip On Mule TRK for fans of plastic clogs

Known for being the favorite brand for skateboarders, Vans is therefore tackling a completely different sliding sport. It has just released new mules, designed in a block of flexible and synthetic material waterproofthat are put on as easily as they take off, as allowed by the famous Slip On model of the label which deviates the design here.

These new plastic clogs are decorated with small square holes like the brand’s signature checkerboard pattern, so you can walk in water with them, rinse them easily, or even to avoid accumulating too much sand.

The Slip On Mule TRK from Vans feature a lug waffle outsole for a good grip. And if this shoe certainly reminds you of the Crocs, it is certainly no coincidence: given the insolent sales of the most famous plastic clogs, this could give some ideas to the competition.

Vans declines its iconic sneakers according to the world of surfing

But the Californian brand affirms its identity by proposing its signature models for the aquatic world. His new Surf VR3 collection presents three models in particular: the Circle Vee at €115 (which incorporates the design of the Authentic), the UltraRange at €125 (faithful to the design of the same name), and the Style 36 Decon at €85. mix all house codes). And this, with a particular effort on eco-responsibility since their lining is cut in a blend of 50% organic cotton, 50% recycled cotton and the laces in jute fiber.

The Circle Vee takes it a step further with its natural rubber outsole sourced from regenerative crops, on farms that support diversity, the water cycle and soil quality. The knit upper is made of 48% organic cotton, 47% hemp, and 5% nylon. This avoids having to cut and sew multiple yokes, thus limiting production waste.

Note that Vans has already offered surf boots: the €80 2 Mid 3mm (which goes to the ankle), the €100 Surf 2 Hi V 5mm (which goes above the ankle), and the Surf Hi St 3mm at €90 (same height, but with the big toe separated to ensure a good grip in cold weather). The new sneakers therefore complete the surf offer of the Californian brand with style.