An Era will also release with Dracula imagery.
Vans’ recently relaunched OTW line is adding Undercover to its short list of collaborators.
The Undercover x OTW x Vans Sk8-Mid and Era will release this week with both models taking on two colorways. The Sk8-Mid features stripped graphics on the tongue back half reading “Anarchy Is Key” in either red or blue. Both colorways feature black and white color blocking on the rest of the shoe, albeit with a more black-dominant upper for the blue version.
Undercover then looks to Dracula for its duo of lower-cut Era sneakers, which feature the hand of the historic villain atop a checkerboard print in either black and white or red and black.
For the collection’s campaign, Undercover and Vans enlisted pro skater Stafhon Boca and the artist Briseppe.
Vans relaunched its Vault by Vans line as OTW by Vans earlier this year following years of underperformance from the VF Corp.-owned brand. Ian Ginoza — who previously worked at Nike, Adidas and Converse before taking over the premium line — has focused on a shorter list of collaborators and more daring renditions of some of Vans’ classic silhouettes, including the addition of Vibram outsoles suited for hiking.
“We’re launching a new platform where we’re going to house our most pinnacle product expressions and brand experiences,” Ginoza told WWD last summer upon the announcement of OTW. “This is also where the brand will intersect with innovators in the culture of skate, style, design and entertainment.”
Prior to the introduction of OTW, Undercover had already been a frequent Vans partner.
The Undercover x OTW by Vans Sk8-Mid and Era sneakers release Friday, July 13, through Undercover’s website before a second release on the OTW site July 16. Pricing runs from $95 to $100.
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
