Although Imran Potato got his start as a funky bootlegger, Vans gives him the chance to deliver the real deal. The Vault by Vans x Imran Potato Collection brings a sense of humor to six different footwear styles.
For his debut Vault by Vans collection, Imran Potato digs up the archives and revives the Vans KNU SKOOL VR3 LX and the Vans SK8-HI VR3 LX. Both of these silhouettes pay homage to an iconic ‘90s skate-silhouette that Vans first debuted in 1998.
Imran takes the oversized sneaker and further exaggerates the silhouette to create an extra chunky exterior with an overstuffed tongue and thick laces. The Vans KNU SKOOL VR3 LX has an all-over suede upper in classic black/white, as well as two leopard print patterns in black and yellow. The signature Vans sidestripe has a 3D finish, giving the sneaker extra dimension. Potato branding appears on the tongue tag, heel tab, and outsole. Vans updates the silhouette by manufacturing the sneaker with eco-friendly details such as sustainable suede, an EVA foam footbed made from sugarcane, and an EcoWaffle rubber outsole.
“The KNU SKOOL is the best sneaker silhouette of all time. It’s the shoe I always wanted but couldn’t get because of its mystery — the ultimate unattainable eBay shoe,” said Imran. “The Vault team literally opened the vault for me, and I can’t thank them enough for that. This collaboration is a dream come true, and my most important work to date.”
The Vans SK8-HI VR3 LX also comes in three different colorways in shades of black, blue, and Vans’ signature checkerboard print. Each colorway is embroidered with a doodled human hand that runs across the side panel and tongue. This design element is a nod to Imran’s viral Potato Caveman Slippers. To complete the collection, Imran Potato will also be releasing an installment of limited apparel and goods.
The Vault by Vans x Imran Potato Collection drops on May 18th at 5pm EST on imranpotato.com. The price is unknown. Additionally, the collection will be available at select Vault by Vans retailers and Vans.com/vault on May 21st. For more Release Dates and updates on all your favorite sneakers, follow @NiceKicks on Twitter.
