Pioneering the Next Wave: Vans' Old Skool Reimagined for Tomorrow's Icons

A Fresh Take on a Timeless Classic: The Vans 'New Future' Collection Unveiled

The iconic Vans Old Skool, a cornerstone of skate and surf culture since the 1970s, receives a contemporary refresh with the launch of the 'New Future' campaign. This initiative sees Vans partnering with its standout athletes to inject new life into the beloved low-top sneaker. Tania Cruz, Karina Rozunko, Efron Danzig, and Cocona Hiraki each contribute their unique vision, resulting in four distinct iterations of the Premium Old Skool, blending heritage with forward-thinking design.

Celebrating Individual Expression: Athletes Infuse Personal Narratives into Sneaker Design

At the heart of the 'New Future' campaign lies a commitment to fostering collective creativity among a new generation of trailblazing athletes. Photographer Grace Ahlbom captures the essence of each athlete's unique perspective, showcased through their personalized Premium Old Skool designs. For instance, Cocona Hiraki's creation features a removable friendship bracelet and Japanese-inspired charms, reflecting her passion for bracelet-making, while Efron Danzig, a multi-talented skateboarder, poet, model, and artist, brought a high-fashion edge to her design with a heeled cupsole, silver hardware, and corset-style lacing. Tania Cruz incorporated a bold black rub-away leather that transforms to a vibrant red, symbolizing the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of her skateboarding journey. San Clemente surfer Karina Rozunko's design draws inspiration from her jewelry-making hobby, incorporating custom metal hardware and a vintage aesthetic, creating a statement piece that seamlessly transitions from the waves to everyday wear. Each sneaker eloquently narrates the athlete's identity, both within and beyond their athletic pursuits.

The Power of Diverse Passions: Athletes Share Their Creative Journeys Beyond the Board

Beyond their exceptional skills in skateboarding and surfing, these athletes nurture diverse creative interests. Efron Danzig emphasizes the interconnectedness of her various artistic endeavors, noting how poetry allows for expression beyond what a skateboard can convey. Karina Rozunko views fashion, film, and jewelry as additional avenues for self-expression, providing a sense of fluidity and creative outlet when she's not riding the waves. Cocona Hiraki, with a lifelong passion for creation, finds joy in shaping and coloring objects, connecting her love for accessories like thread bracelets with the vibrant visual elements of skateboarding.

Forging Safe Spaces and Inspiring Generations: The Social Impact of Skateboarding

Tania Cruz and Cocona Hiraki have both made significant impacts within the skateboarding world. Hiraki's journey, from aspiring to meet Lizzie Armanto to becoming an Olympian and a rising star in Japan's skate scene, highlights the profound influence of personal aspirations and community support. Her involvement with Vans riders, family, and friends has been instrumental in her growth. Cruz underscores the importance of cultivating safe spaces in skateboarding, drawing from her personal experiences of finding refuge and camaraderie in the sport. Her commitment to advocating for younger girls and fostering a sense of belonging reflects the profound impact skateboarding can have on personal identity and community building.

A Shared Vision: Connecting with the Vans Family and Fellow Athletes

Being a part of the Vans family signifies a deeper connection to a culture rooted in creativity, freedom, and respect. Karina Rozunko, with over eight years as a Vans athlete, describes the bond as familial, emphasizing the shared passion that unites the diverse group. Cocona Hiraki echoes this sentiment, recognizing that her journey from a fan to a Vans rider has expanded her world, connecting her with inspiring artists and skaters globally, and reinforcing the deep ties between skateboarding, art, fashion, and music.

Embodying the Spirit of Authenticity: Vans Athletes Define Their Own Paths

The ethos of Vans—championing originality, pushing boundaries, and staying true to oneself—is deeply ingrained in these athletes. Tania Cruz embodies this spirit by embracing her authentic self, using skateboarding as a means of personal expression and continuously challenging her own limits without succumbing to external comparisons. Efron Danzig emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and trusting one's intuition, reflecting a genuine approach to her craft and identity.