Taking a stand for a healthier ocean, Vans, the skateboarding shoes and apparel brand, has partnered with marine life artist Wyland and the Wyland Foundation for their latest classic slip-on sneaker collaboration. The shoes, affectionately nicknamed, “The Kraken,” are inspired by the artist’s stunning depiction of the ocean’s original master of disguise, the octopus.
Building on the artist’s playful aesthetic, the octopus appears to spread its tentacles and travel in silhouette from one shoe to the other. The new Vans x Wyland “Kraken” classic slip-on sneaker is made with cotton sourced from the Better Cotton Initiative which works to reduce the environmental impact of cotton production and improve livelihoods and economic development in cotton producing areas. Vans has sourced BCI cotton since 2014, with the goal of sourcing 100% sustainable cotton by 2025.
“The octopus is not only one of the most awe-inspiring animals in the ocean, it’s in many ways a designer’s dream with its fluid movements and endless ability to camouflage,” Wyland says. “It’s just one of the reasons why people love the ocean so much.”
All proceeds from the new collaboration directly support Wyland Foundation efforts for clean water and healthier oceans, including mobile science education for underserved students, after school marine art education, and numerous programs designed to reduce upstream pollution before it can impact the ocean. Wyland “Kraken” slip on sneakers retail for $110 each and are available for a limited time online exclusively at the Wyland Foundation store.
To order, visit https://wylandfoundation.org/product/vans-x-wyland-octopus-seas-classic-slip-on-shoe-preorder/.
About the Wyland Foundation
The Wyland Foundation, founded in 1993 by environmental artist Wyland, is a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to promoting, protecting, and preserving the world’s ocean, waterways, and marine life. The foundation encourages environmental awareness through community events, education programs, and public art projects. For years, Wyland Foundation has rallied the support of mayors and cities nationwide to urge constituents to consider their environmental impact through its National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation. Learn more at www.wylandfoundation.org.
About Vans
Vans is an American manufacturer of skateboarding shoes and related apparel, established in Anaheim, California, and owned by VF Corporation. The company also sponsors surf, snowboarding, BMX, and motocross teams.[3] From 1996 to 2019, the company was the primary sponsor of the annual Warped Tour music festival. To learn more visit: https://www.vans.com/en-us.
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Source: Vans, Wyland Foundation
