Vans

Let's start from the very beginning and find out when and under what circumstances this particular line was created? Everything started in 2003 when the 'sub-brand' Vault was launched. It was and is the highest level of Vans products, available only and exclusively in a selected network of partner stores scattered around the world. This project, which we can confidently call a special, limited line, was implemented to revive the range of classic Vans shoes in an unusual and original way - Authentic, Old Skool, Sk8-Hi, Slip-On and Era. Since then, this series has become a kind of canvas for creating a limited, innovative product for such partner brands as Japanese WTAPS, Undercover, Marc Jacobs, or Kenzo and other unique entities. As a curiosity, we can tell you that the average production volume for one issue of Vault shoes ranges from about 500 to 1500 pairs, which is a minimum value compared to both the regular series of Vans and the "limited" editions of their competitors from other brands. This really makes them special and one of a kind.

When you first collide with Vault by Vans products, you will be surprised not only by their unusual design that stands out from other products of the brand, but also a slightly higher price. Why are Vault by Vans shoes more expensive than sneakers from current collections? The answer to this question is complex. First of all, these shoes are made in a very limited edition, which makes them especially rare, but not only that. This also means that they are created on special production lines, and thus the cost of their unit product increases. The price is also conditioned by the much better quality of the finish itself, but also of the materials from which they are constructed. The higher price guarantees a selection of sophisticated, often more expensive to obtain, quality products that can surprise and stand out from the standard, cheaper models of Vans shoes that you can find in general distribution. It is also natural that a 'premium' product is sometimes a bit more expensive than its basic, basic version, and this is also the case here. Here, at least, it entails the aforementioned quality of workmanship, more difficult accessibility or cooperation with a unique brand, which explains and compensates for the price.

The answer to this question is not unequivocal, and our reflection is: it depends. When choosing shoes, each of us follows slightly different guidelines. Some people care about the quality of workmanship, others about the spectacular appearance, above-average comfort, and someone will not pay attention to it all yet. So, will the Vault by Vans limited edition shoes be better than the general ones? In most cases, yes, but on the condition that you expect nothing from nothing, which we will mention now. These are constructions refined in terms of quality and durability of the materials used in the production, which, in addition, we rarely see on the streets, and thus attract the eye and allow us to stand out. However, if you like simple everyday silhouettes that you do not intend to take care of, you can go for the classic Vans shoes at a lower price. Remember, however, that Vault by Vans is not only the craziest designs, but also well-thought-out styles that at first glance do not stand out with anything special, and ultimately can really surprise you and serve you for years. Sometimes it's really worth paying a little extra.

Some of you may mainly associate the Vault by Vans line with collaborative projects created in cooperation with recognized brands or designers in the world of street fashion, and of course this is a good lead, but you must also know that it is not only famous for this / In 2008, the renowned Japanese joined Vans designer Taka Hayashi, who previously worked for the Californian brand Stussy. Subsequently, Taka Quick began overseeing the Vault. And Hayashi's seasonal collections slowly became the core of the Vault, helping to distinguish it clearly from the rest of the Vans offering. Hayashi's approach was to create a high-quality product that echoes the skate-surfing vibe and brand DNA, but in a surprising, innovative way. As a result, we get a product refined to perfection, in which the highest quality materials are combined with models known from Vans, as well as new shoe designs were created. In addition to well-known silhouettes, such as the timeless Slip-On or Sk8-Hi, which have appeared in the Taka collections for years - of course with subtle modifications, he also introduced more formal styles to the Vans offer, such as derby or boots, expanding the portfolio brand.

Although we associate the Vans Vault series mainly with unique sneakers, they have long been not the only, though still the most important, core of the entire venture. Often, as part of larger, especially capsule projects, where one, two or three colors of shoes is not at stake, there are also high-quality clothing and sophisticated accessories. A very good example of this is the cooperation of Vault by Vans with its long-term partner, the Japanese brand WTAPS. As part of their electrifying activities, not only shoes that are highly sought after among collectors, but also sweatshirts, T-shirts or accessories designed to match the atmosphere of the footwear and create a coherent, well-thought-out whole are sold. What's more, Vault by Vans also boasts luxurious leather bicycle seats produced in cooperation with Brooks of England, handcrafted blankets created in cooperation with Pendleton, and chairs from Modernica. As you can see, when approaching another limited project, the designers of the American brand do not limit themselves to only shoes, and they certainly do not go the easy way, giving us a well-thought-out, quality product that we can enjoy for years.