# Skateboarder-Approved Sneaker Designs Vans Debuts Rowan 2, Rowan Zorilla's Second Signature Model By Kalin Ned | Published 2023-11-03 | Pop Culture Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rowan-2 References: [vans](https://www.vans.co.uk/shop/en-gb/vans-gb/vans-x-rowan) [Vans](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skate-rowley) Skateboarding's announcement of the Rowan 2, Rowan Zorilla's second signature model, provides a glimpse into the evolution of skateboarding footwear and apparel. This new [signature sneaker](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skate-authentic-high) is a follow-up to the Rowan Pro from 2020 and promises a refined design, improved feel, and the introduction of Vans Skateboarding's new ImpactWaffle™ technology which aims to enhance performance. The VR3 Cush midsole is dual-density and is said to provide increased underfoot protection from heel to toe. The zonal tread design, featuring SickStick™ rubber, is redesigned to offer improved impact protection and board feel while also emphasizing sustainability. The Rowan 2 is described as offering a look that's both progressive and accessible, drawing inspiration from [vintage court shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vans-2-eyelet). Alongside the shoe, there is an accompanying apparel assortment, which includes loose-fit carpenter denim, a short-sleeve tee featuring a screen-printed graphic from one of Rowan's vintage Vans tees, and a reversible bucket hat. Additional items in the collection comprise a 1⁄4 zip polar fleece and a long-sleeve tee with a hand-drawn Circle-V logo graphic. Image Credit: Vans Skateboarding ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.7/10 - Popularity: 79% | Activity: 42% | Freshness: 19% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Pop Culture](https://www.trendhunter.com/popculture) > [Celebs](https://www.trendhunter.com/celebs) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Evolving Skateboarding Footwear:** The launch of Vans' Rowan 2 showcases the evolution of skateboarding footwear, with a refined design and new ImpactWaffle™ technology. - **Improved Performance and Protection:** Vans' Rowan 2 features a dual-density VR3 Cush midsole and redesigned SickStick™ rubber tread for enhanced underfoot protection and impact resistance. - **Progressive Accessible Design:** Drawing inspiration from vintage court shoes, Vans' Rowan 2 offers a look that is both progressive and accessible for skateboarders. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Skateboarding Footwear:** The launch of Vans' Rowan 2 highlights the evolution and potential for innovation in the skateboarding footwear industry. - **Apparel and Accessories:** The accompanying apparel assortment with Vans' Rowan 2 presents opportunities for innovation and expansion in the skateboarder fashion industry. - **Athletic Performance Technology:** The introduction of Vans' ImpactWaffle™ technology in the Rowan 2 opens possibilities for advancements in athletic performance technology across industries. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Bright Collaborative Skate Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skate-rowley.md) - [Advanced Skate-Centric Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ave-20.md) - [Textural Update Skate Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zhang-quan-1.md) - [Streetwear Skate Remixes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-future.md) - [00s Skateboarding-Inspired Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/star-bullet.md) - [Skate-Centric Classic Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skate-old-skool-36.md) - [Rider-Collaborated Sneaker Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skate-authentic-high.md) - [Skateboarding Shoe Tours](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/commitment-to-progression.md) - [Premium Explorative Skate Products](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/otw-by-vans-1.md)