FEATURE | TIE UP

Translated By DeepL

Eight urban surfers wearing Vans Chris Johansson models.
Seamless Switching Between.

Eight urban surfers wearing Vans Chris Johansson models.

Vans" has been loved by skaters and surfers around the world since the brand was founded. And another artist has made his mark on the brand's history. Chris Johansson, who once sparked the Mission District art movement on the West Coast. On the occasion of the launch of a special collection with his signature artwork, we have called together eight creators who embody urban surf. They all blend in .

  • Photo_Yuki Aizawa
  • Edit_Yuho Nomura

Sample 01.

Mr. Yuzuru Shinjo (age 37)
Pro surfer, producer of "TRANSISTOR BRAND", owner of "ZLAND supply house".

As a professional longboard surfer, he has led the surfing scene in Japan for many years. Currently, he lives a fast-paced surfing life in his hometown of Tsujido, while producing the surfboard manufacturer "TRANSISTOR BRAND" and running a facility called "ZLAND supply house," which offers a lounge, etc. He is also a surfboard shaper. He is also a surfboard shaper.

Vans" sneakers that you wore this time, what did you think of them frankly?

New Castle:The fit is better than I expected and I like the comfort and look of the shoes. . I love the cushioning and lightness of the Vans' unique ultra-cush sole.

What kind of mood or occasion would you like to wear them in?

New Castle:I felt that they would be a good choice for both town and country scenes, and would be a great way to get in the mood on the way to the surf spot.

. What is your image of "Vans"?

New Castle:I went to California for the first time when I was 13, and all the surfers were wearing "Vans". The coolness I felt at that time has never faded away, and I have been wearing "Vans" ever since. Vans is a brand that has supported me both publicly and privately, and I like their original colors and simple designs.

What do you look for when choosing sneakers?

New Castle:. it's all about the look and the fit. In the case of 〈Vans〉, I often choose Ultra Kush or Comfy Kush models.

What are your favorite surfers, surf movies, and surf music?

New Castle:My favorite surfers are Joel Tudor and Andini Blass, and the movie "ADRIFT," in which Jewel Tudor plays the main role, is my favorite surf movie. Also, when I want to chill, the surf music I often listen to is Sons Of The East in general.

Sample 02.

KENNY (age 33)
Vocal of "SPiCYSOL

Vocal of "SPiCYSOL," a band that has become a hot topic mainly on streaming sites for its "The Surf Beat Music" and its warm and innovative musicality. He has moved to Chigasaki, where he not only surfs, but also actively engages in illustration activities, including providing CD jackets and designs for the band, and holding solo exhibitions.

It's a distinctive look, but were there any particular points you were conscious of?

KENNY:When I actually tried them on, I realized that I should have worn them with more classic, 70's West Coast-esque clothes (laughs). . for example, camel-colored corduroy & tattered sweatshirts. . But a corduroy setup & monotone is also good, though, because it makes the sneakers stand out. . The hat is from a friend's brand, and I incorporated it as an accent.

Chris Johansson, a major figure in the West Coast art scene, created these sneakers.

KENNY:He is the leading figure in sublimating culture into art, isn't he? I am not familiar with his riding and such, but when I actually came into contact with the surfing culture myself, I felt that his influence is very significant. I also draw pictures in my private life, so his designs are very inspiring.

What kind of mood or occasion would you like to wear them in?

KENNY:I live by the ocean, so they would be just right for walking on the beach to check out the waves, or for a casual stroll around the neighborhood near my house. . Or, when I go out to the city, I might wear them in a nautical style.

. What are you into these days?

KENNY:This year, I've been into a new style of snowboarding called "snowsurfing. There is a board called "GENTEM STICK" that is shaped like a fish in surfing, and it is a fun way to enjoy snowboarding by hitting the terrain, carving, and spraying in the powder. It originated in Niseko, my father's hometown, and recently it seems to be spreading all over the world.

What do you keep in mind in your own surfing life?

KENNY:. It's all about culture and respect. I always say hello to locals and people who happen to be waiting for a wave, and just by doing so, we can both surf comfortably. I think the accident rate is totally different if you don't have that.

INFORMATION

VANS JAPAN

Phone: 03-3476-5624
vansjapan.com
VANS×Chris Johanson