The New Future campaign reinvigorates the iconic Old Skool sneaker through four distinct athlete-led reimaginings. Launched July 17 by Vans, the collection features designs from skateboarders and surfers Cocona Hiraki, Karina Rozunko, Tania Cruz, and Efron Danzig. Hiraki’s pair introduces removable charms and translucent soles reflecting her Japanese craft roots; Rozunko’s option blends vintage colors with metal detailing; Cruz’s black-to-red rub-away leather reveals character over time; and Danzig delivers a bold, full-grain leather version with corset lacing and a platform sole.
The New Future campaign emphasizes personal expression and craftsmanship via co-designed silhouettes that highlight each athlete’s identity beyond sport. Cocona’s bracelet-laced Old Skool dropped July 17, with Rozunko and Cruz releasing on September 4, and Danzig’s punk-inspired iteration following on September 10. Each pair combines heritage skate features with fresh aesthetics, offering a modern take on a timeless classic and celebrating the role of creativity in skate and surf culture.
Image Credit: Vans
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Athlete-driven Footwear
- Athlete-inspired shoe designs promote individuality and function, bridging the gap between sports performance and personal style.
- Customization in Streetwear
- Customization features like removable charms and rub-away leather foster consumer engagement by allowing personalized expression through fashion.
- Vintage Aesthetic Revival
- Design elements rooted in vintage styles inject nostalgia into modern streetwear, creating a fusion of past and present influences.
Sectors Adopting This
- Fashion and Apparel
- The intersection of sport and style in apparel design continues to drive innovation, appealing to consumers seeking versatile and expressive clothing options.
- Athletic and Lifestyle Footwear
- Footwear brands increasingly leverage athlete partnerships to create products that resonate culturally and functionally with diverse consumer segments.
- Personalization and DIY Fashion
- Growing consumer demand for unique, individualized products propels the personalization and DIY fashion sector, encouraging brands to explore co-creation opportunities.
