OTW by Vans has conquered Los Angeles
A brief summary of the Downtown event and collaboration with Sterling Ruby
March 8th, 2024
Emanuele D'Angelo
Making a city like Los Angeles even more iconic is difficult in itself, a vast place divided into 80 different districts that make it the second most populous city in America after New York. A challenge almost impossible for a city that is always in constant motion and constantly evolving, but one that OTW by Vans has managed to overcome by far, organizing an evening dedicated to skateboarding, art, design, music and entertainment. A name that may sound strange at first, OTW by Vans was inaugurated during the Men's Fashion Week in Paris in June 2023, a space designed to push the boundaries of product design and experimentation. A pinnacle expression created to bring together the most influential innovators in the world of skateboarding, art, design, music and entertainment. One of the greatest expressions of the brand that honors skateboarding as the first promoter of a disruptive culture.
OTW by Vans remained faithful to its promises, conquering Los Angeles with a beautiful installation designed in collaboration with PLAYLAB, INC. and Sterling Ruby, marking the beginning of Frieze. A giant orange structure, inspired by the steep slopes made famous by skateboarding in San Francisco, was installed in Downtown, in the heart of Los Angeles, creating a bond between music, skateboarding, fashion, and more. During the evening, there was a skateboarding performance with Vans athletes including Curren Caples, Efron Danzig, Elijah Berle, Nick Michel, Roman Pabich, Rowan Zorilla, and Zion Wright. Important names that we will also see at the upcoming 2024 Olympics in Paris, and who rode around the orange hill, even making some small intrusions on stage where two different artists invited by OTW by Vans would soon perform. Skateboarding, design, and, as mentioned, music. OTW by Vans immersed guests in the sounds of bands like Paris Texas and Salem, who with their performances contributed to making the evening spent in the City of Angels even more iconic.
The lights of the majestic skatepark slowly dimmed, and that small orange rectangle transformed into a stage, becoming a perfect backdrop for the various artists present. Not just music and skateboarding, as the Los Angeles event was also the perfect opportunity to present the first Half Cab Reissue 33 Vibram, which redefines the most recognizable skateboarding shoe with a specialized Vibram sole and vulcanized bottom, available in three suede/mesh color options. A new model accompanied by the Patchwork Drill Chore Coat and Patchwork Drill Pant, which explore the future of Vans clothing design. OTW by Vans x S.R. STUDIO. LA. CA. is now available in limited quantities at selected global wholesale partners.
With additional releases planned for the coming years, both for footwear and clothing, including a second release by the end of 2024, this collaboration sets the foundation for a dynamic exploration of style and innovation. Remaining consistent with the words of OTW by Vans' Creative Direction Vice President, Ian Ginoza, who states that "the brand is and will always be at the forefront of progression, experiences, and collaboration. The skateboarding mentality is fundamental for Vans, and OTW enriches this spirit through a distinct perspective to advance the culture."