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Vans’ New Future Campaign Aims to Elevate the Old Skool

Vans is presenting their New Future campaign, centered around elevating the fan-favorite Old Skool model.

First released in 1977, the Style 36, known more frequently as the Old Skool, was the second skate shoe Vans ever made. It was the first to feature the iconic Sidestripe logo so synonymous with the brand today. The Old Skool has been the constant canvas for expression among teens, boutiques, and even major partners who have collaborated on the sneaker

Now, almost half a century since the introduction of the sneaker, Vans is launching a new campaign to remind us all of just how important this sneaker is.

Vans’ New Future campaign is dedicated to elevating the Old Skool through the lens of four inspirational athletes: Efron Danzig. Cocona Hiraki. Tania Cruz. Karina Rozunko. These four visionaries are pushing the Premium Old Skool into the future—partnering with the Vans design team to create four deeply personal and fashion-forward takes on the iconic silhouette.

The New Future Premium Old Skool collection reflects the unique personality and passions of each rider, drawing inspiration from how they see and move through the world.

Cocona Hiraki’s Premium Old Skool showcases her custom artwork on a translucent outsole, paired with a removable friendship bracelet and charms inspired by her Japanese heritage. Always on the move, Cocona stays connected through skating, crafting, drawing, and making bracelets between sessions.

Haraki’s fun interpretation of the Old Skool kicks off the New Future campaign, as the sneaker launched today via Vans.

You can purchase Hiraki’s Premium Old Skool now via Vans.

Launching on September 4th, Karina Rozunko’s Premium Old SkoolTM blends vintage-inspired design with custom metal hardware and an asymmetrical wrap upper. Rooted in traditional longboarding, her style is effortless—on board and off. From fashion to film to jewelry making, she’s always exploring new creative outlets.

Rozunko’s hardware lacing system and exaggerated toe cap feel very on trend to the latest in the world of fashion. This approach to the Old Skool is a reminder of the shoe’s versatility- and the ability to be made it’s own.

Also launching on September 4th is Tania Cruz’s Premium Old Skool. The sneaker draws inspiration from her global skate and art community, designed with what her crew would want to wear. Featuring rub-away black leather that reveals red underneath, each pair becomes more unique with time.

Cruz’s Old Skool remind us of the character that comes from a worn pair of Old Skools. With her pair, fans are encouraged even more to bring their shoes to life through daily wear.

Rounding out the collection is Efron Danzig reimagination of the Premium Old Skool with a heeled cupsole, full-grain leather, silver hardware, and corset-inspired lacing. Blending skate and high fashion, her bold design channels DIY punk culture and brings a feminine edge to a classic silhouette.

“I took details from old New York rockers, trashy girls, Marie Antoinette, military, punks, and my friends who make clothes. I’m like, dude, a skate shoe version of that would be sick,” shared Danzig when explaining the thought process behind her design. Danzig’s Premium Old Skool will launch on  September 10th.

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The New Future campaign capitalizes on the Old Skool’s rich impact as a statement making shoe. From skateboarders, to rockers, to hype-beast- the Old Skool has long transcended phases and trend cycles.

This campaign shows us the creative flairs behind Vans’ athletes. Their sneakers share a feeling of community and style- two key points that will carry the Old Skool model for another half-century, at least.

The New Future Premium Old Skool collection will drop beginning today, July 17, at Vans retail locations and at Vans.com.