Vans Vault x WP

June 5, 2023

One for the heads here, this June Vans Vault team up with storied distributor and taste maker extraordinaire WP.

For those unfamiliar with WP here’s a brief potted history of sorts. Founded in Bologna 1982, WP Lavori in Corso was the brainchild of Giuseppe Calori and his daughter Cristina, who brought the distribution of several brands, which until then were totally unknown in Italy, back with them from a long trip through the United States – sounds familiar. Thus, ushered in the importation of functional, authentic overseas fashion of excellent quality and high-tech standards which would go on to shape youth culture & fashion both at home in Italy as well as across the continent.

Perhaps one of the best stories to come from their work is the rise in popularity of Vans in Europe. Introducing laid back West Coast skate & surf wear to hungry Italian youths. WP approached Vans in the 1980’s to produce some custom made for WP styles that expanded on Vans already wildly popular ‘Off the Wall’ styles. Adding a certain Italian flair WP spec’d bandanna and Paisley patterns often mixed together to create a unique take on a host of Vans staples. Not content with just that it was also WP’s bright idea to create the convertible Vans aka those Authentic with the collapsible heel. Alongside the footwear WP struck a licence deal with Vans to produce apparel styles that followed that same formula. Americana viewed through an Italian lens. There were stone washed denim, heavy cotton shirts (All featuring embroidered Style 59’s), beguiling knitwear that used multiple patterns, graphic laden t-shirts & acid washed bomber jackets to select but a few…

There’s a great video produced by WP featuring Steve Van Doren & Vans oracle Henry from the Pillowheat blog/store. That takes a deep dive into the illustrious back catalog of styles from WP & Vans if that sounds like something up your street…

With some formal introductions out of the way we can get down to the matter at hand and this 2023 link up between old friends. This latest drop sees Vans team up with WP once more to offer a capsule collection comprising three footwear styles and 5 apparel pieces. Paying homage to those key styles and patterns from the duo’s past. We’re treated to three editions of the Vans Vault Authentic. Each finished with a canvas upper with that signature WP bandanna Paisley pattern cross. Details arrive via white eyelets as well as white cotton laces + a set of tonal. A WP sign off appears on the footbed quarter. Underneath a signature Vans vulcanized sole unit runs beneath with a timeless solo black foxing line to offer a subtle contrast while the classic Vans tab appears binding the sole.

The Vans Vault x WP Footwear collection launches at HANON via an ONLINE RAFFLE. Enter now via the button below!