Vans x Murakami Collabo Is Happening

Sneakerphiles everywhere are jumping for joy after learning that Vans and Takashi Murakami designed a limited edition collection of footwear, apparel, and skate decks. The maker of the world's most popular slip-on teamed up with the influential Japanese artist for the Vault by Vans x Takashi Murakami line that will be released later this month. The collection will feature and celebrate Murakami's vibrant, anime-inspired designs.

“We are so privileged to work with an artist of Murakami’s caliber,” said Stephen Mills, Vans VP of Global Product Merchandising. “This collaboration brings together two global cultural icons and we are proud to unveil the project after much anticipation.” Both the shoe company and the renowned artist are no strangers to epic collaborations. Last month saw the release of the Vans x Disney line, while Murakami most famously designed an iconic collection for Louis Vuitton back in 2002 and later created the cover art for Kanye West's Graduation album. Teaming up with Vans came naturally for the artist, who also happens to be a fan of its classic shoe.

“For the past 10-plus years, without exaggeration, I have been wearing Vans Slip-Ons almost every single day,” Murakami said. “For me, there are no other shoes that are so comfortably wearable that let me focus on producing my artwork. I also feel extremely strong empathy for Vans’ brand concept and creative stance.”

In anticipation of its release, fans around the globe have already come up with concept art for the collaboration, including Atlanta-based graphic designer Larry Luk. His imagined drawings of the Vans x Murakami collection was published on Nice Kicks.