The new collaboration highlights leopard prints on Vans’ iconic silhouettes

Vault by Vans, Vans’ premium heritage line, has teamed up with Japanese label Wacko Maria once again. Often identified by its use of animal prints and bold artist collabs, Wacko Maria was founded in 2005 by former J-League soccer players Keiji Ishizuka and Atsuhiko Mori. Apart from collaborating with other Japanese imprints, the brand focuses on hosting events for its community. Their collections are mostly inspired by the world of art, music, and Japanese culture. Committed to extraordinary craftsmanship and creative self-expression, Wacko Maria blends classic storytelling with a unique romantic feel into iconic silhouettes.

With their previous collection, the sneakers embellished a repeating vinyl record pattern that incorporated Vans’ iconic Checkerboard print on the upper. This time around, the two brands drew inspiration from the original OG Authentic LX silhouette. Wacko Maria brings their signature leopard look to the Vans Authentic in three different colorways—gray, brown, and peach. Each pair of OG Authentic LX shoes in the collection is a deep interpretation of youth culture and creative self-expression.

“I have always wanted to do a leopard pattern with Vans and Wacko Maria, and it is one of the patterns that will forever be cool and I would like to continue to work on with Vans,” said Atsuhiko Mori. “When we decide on color variations of a pattern, we think what kind of variations would be more romantic, I would like to present Vans shoes in these three colors.”

Photo: Courtesy of Vans

The Vault by Vans x Wacko Maria collaboration is available at Vault by Vans retailers and at vans.com.