Vans OTW Gives the Half Cab and Old Skool Sneakers New Engineered Knit Uppers

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Vans’ recently relaunched OTW line is introducing knit sneakers into its repertoire.

The OTW by Vans Half Cab and Old Skool have both been treated to a new Engineered Knit treatment with checkerboard prints appearing as part of the uppers’ single-piece construction. An athletic mesh is blended with cotton to balance breathability and warmth, while a molded foam collar adds comfort.

Both models will release in two colorways featuring Vans’ signature checkerboard print as part of a patchwork arrangement. The Half Cab comes in a navy, black and white “Outer Space” colorway, as well as green, baby blue, white and black “Verdent Green.” The Old Skool then boasts options in tonal brown and white “Potting Soil,” as well as blue, tonal green and white “Tap Shoe Green.”

Emily Ratajkowski wore the OTW Old Skool Engineered Knit in its “Potting Soil” colorway at a Vans event at Paris Fashion Week.

Vans relaunched its Vault by Vans under the OTW by Vans banner for a new approach to collaborations and more premium versions of its sneakers. Ian Ginoza — who previously worked at Nike, Adidas and Converse — is leading OTW and told WWD last summer: “We’re launching a new platform where we’re going to house our most pinnacle product expressions and brand experiences. This is also where the brand will intersect with innovators in the culture of skate, style, design and entertainment.”

OTW Vans has immediately stood out for its frequent use of Vibram sole units giving its classic models a fresh look and more modern functionality, as well as bold color schemes and patterns. Its first collaboration came with the artist Sterling Ruby’s S.R. Studio.

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Vans is banking on the OTW line, as well as the recent appointment of former Lululemon product chief Sun Choe as global brand president, will help invigorate the brand after years of underperforming amid wider struggles for its parent company VF Corp.

The Vans OTW Half Cab Engineered Knit is out now through the OTW website and select third party retailers, and the OTW Old Skool Engineered Knit will release August 1 through the same avenues. Pricing for both models is set at $115.

About the Author:

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.

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