#Japan #Tokyo #Vans #Yusuke Hanai #Artist Collection

Vans Artist Collection: Yusuke Hanai

Vans, the renowned action sports footwear and apparel brand, is set to release the latest edition of the Vans Artist Collection, a collaboration with celebrated Japanese artist Yusuke Hanai on May 29, 2025. This partnership aims to highlight the creativity of esteemed Asian artists through Vans products, and it follows the recent work of popular Korean artist Riroo.

Hanai's collection is profoundly inspired by the surf and counterculture movements from the 1950s to 1970s. It embodies a unique fusion of Japanese aesthetic sensibilities and retro Californian vibes, offering a distinctive touch to be revealed in this one-of-a-kind collection. The core message of this collaboration is encapsulated in its concept: “Progressing step by step towards a better future, even while holding a rebellious spirit.” This belief is elegantly inscribed on the sidewall of the Premium Old Skool shoes with the phrase “One Foot In Front Of The Other.”

According to Hanai, life leads us in various directions—it can inspire us to succumb to the currents or resist against them. This philosophy is woven deeply into the collection, which encourages subtle yet transformative movements.

The collection will be available via the Vans official online store, various Vans Store locations, select BEAMS outlets, BILLY'S stores, and other authorized Vans retailers. A launch party is scheduled for May 28, 2025, at Vans Store Harajuku, where early purchasers will receive a signed postcard from Hanai, along with a live performance by the up-and-coming alternative rock band Texas 3000.

Key Features of the Collection

The key color of this collection, known as “Stormy Weather” Grey, evokes the image of a cloudy sky during a storm. Featuring illustrations hand-painted by Hanai himself, the Premium Old Skool showcases striking hand-drawn side stripes and box lines, making a bold statement.

Additionally, an array of apparel and accessories like T-shirts, shorts, caps, and reversible tote bags comes adorned with Hanai’s playful illustrations, effectively bridging the gap between beach vibes and street style.

Environmental Commitment

In a show of solidarity for environmental concerns, Hanai has always been vocal about climate change and marine preservation through his art. This partnership also reflects a commitment to sustainability, utilizing eco-friendly materials wherever possible. The shoes’ upper is crafted from renewable canvas fabric featuring high-rebound polyurethane foam known as SOLA FOAM ADC insoles, which is composed of 30% bio-based materials. Additionally, various T-shirt models utilize organic cotton, while some shorts and tote bags employ recycled polyester.

Launch Party Information

• - Date: May 28, 2025
• - Time: 7 PM – 10 PM
• - Location: Vans Store Harajuku, Tokyo
• - Highlights:

- Early access sales for the Vans Artist Collection: Yusuke Hanai
- The first 50 purchasers will receive a postcard signed by Yusuke Hanai.
- Live performance by Texas 3000 and DJ Katoman.
- Free entry, inclusive of drinks and food.

Retail Partner Information

Products including shoes and apparel will be available at:

• - Vans official online store www.vans.co.jp
• - Vans Store locations
• - Selected BEAMS stores such as BEAMS MEN in Shibuya and BEAMS LIFE in Yokohama as well as their official online store at BEAMS
• - BILLY'S stores across various cities in Japan, including locations in Shibuya, Sapporo, and more. You can also view their online store at BILLY’S ENT.

About Yusuke Hanai

Born in 1978 in Kanagawa, Yusuke Hanai moved to San Francisco in his twenties to study art. His distinctive style merges the aesthetic of Japanese culture with the retro illustrations influenced by counter-culture movements from the 1950s to the 1970s. His work has been showcased in countries including the US, France, Australia, Brazil, Taiwan, and the UK.

About Vans

Founded in 1966 in California's Anaheim, Vans has been a pioneering brand in action sports footwear, apparel, and accessories globally. Representing a free-spirited essence, it supports creativity and self-expression within action sports, art, and music. The brand prides itself on initiatives like the Vans Pipe Masters and its culture hub, House Of Vans.

For more details, visit Vans' official website Vans or follow them on Instagram at @vansjapan.

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