This Vans x Mami Wata collection draws inspiration from African surf culture, key historical cultural events, and the power and positivity of surfing. From Zaire’s “Rumble in the Jungle” in 1974 and Nigeria’s “Festac’77,” this new head-to-toe collection takes the iconic, bold, and graphic imagery of these cultural events and adds a modern Vans twist, tying back to our heritage checkerboard prints. By utilizing such bold details in contrast to a micro checkerboard, this collection pays homage to the past while giving a vibrant nod to the future generations supporting African surf culture.

The Mami Wata Authentic VR3 SF blends bold design with our timeless surf-based lace-up shoe to create an upgraded, comfortable collapsible heel style. Featuring uppers made from 50% organic cotton canvas, enhanced comfort with our biobased foam VR3Cush™ footbed, and a new VR3Waffle™ outsole, this classic low top silhouette fuses modern and vintage detailing

Our team has set ambitious sustainability goals. Big or small, all of our efforts add up to positive change. To earn the VR3 Checkerboard globe logo, at least 30% of the product must be made up of one or a combination of recycled, renewable, and/or regenerative materials.

PRODUCT FEATURES
• UPPER MATERIAL: Made with 50% Organic Cotton Canvas
• FOOTBED: The new VR3Cush™ footbed is made using at least 25% biobased EVA foam partially derived from plants per the ASTM D6866-16 testing standard.
• OUTSOLE: All of the rubber used to make the VR3Waffle™ outsole (60% of the compound) is regeneratively grown natural rubber sourced from farms utilizing agricultural practices that are intended to promote biodiversity, enhance water cycles, improve soil health, and/or sequester carbon. This new rubber compound was developed and engineered to maintain the grip and durability Vans has been known for since ‘66.