Innovative Sturdy Stitch material and tech deliver durable, breathable style
Available at select skate retailers worldwide on December 9, 2021
Montreal QC. (Nov. 29, 2021) – Always committed to progression, Vans Skateboarding is proud to unveil the latest innovation to style and performance, the Vans x Fucking Awesome UltimateWaffle EXP. Partnering with longtime Vans family member and Fucking Awesome World entertainment co-owner Anthony Van Engelen, this new, experimental silhouette comes to life utilizing a technical process called SturdyStitch to deliver a durable-yet-flexible upper for increased abrasion resistance and breathability.
The Vans x FA UltimateWaffle EXP leverages Sturdy Stitch, a TPU-based thread for technical embroidery, that is heat pressed to fuse into a breathable monomesh base. SturdyStitch is reinforced with multiple layers across the toe cap to protect high wear areas, as well as a singular layer around the eyestay and heelcounter. The result is increased abrasion resistance, while maintaining breathability and flex. RapidWeld technology is then applied to provide additional structure in the mid-foot and vamp.
This new durable upper is grounded with a translucent UltimateWaffle™ outsole construction, combining a built-in UltraCush™ insole with an internal stabilizing shank for more cushioning, durability, and support—all while offering a unique “what you see, is what you get” look and feel. The shoe is finished with LuxLiner™’s sock-like interior for the ultimate fit, comfort, and breathability.
Available in the hero FA white and black colorway, the Vans x FA UltimateWaffle EXP features a custom molded Vans x FA tongue label, as well as AVE’s namesake on the heelcounter and Vans x FA signature detailing on the heelscab and insole. The shoe is delivered in custom translucent packaging with FA’s signature “Hurt Your Eyes” print.
Co-owned by Anthony Van Engelen and Jason Dill, Fucking Awesome is one of the most influential brands in skate without ever trying to be. Thriving on being offensive, FA makes small quantities of boundary-pushing designs that are some of the most coveted in skateboarding, consistently informing style across the board.
The Vans x FA UltimateWaffle EXP will be available beginning December 9, 2021, at Vans Skateboarding retailers and at Vans.ca/Skateboarding. For more information, and where to purchase, please visit The Drop List, a calendar of Vans’ most exclusive product drops.
About Vans
Vans®, a VF Corporation (NYSE: VFC) brand, is the original action sports footwear, apparel and accessories brand. Vans® authentic collections are sold in 97 countries through a network of subsidiaries, distributors and international offices. Vans® has over 2,000 retail locations globally including owned, concession and partnership doors. The Vans® brand promotes creative self-expression in youth culture across action sports, art, music and street culture and delivers progressive platforms such as Vans Checkerboard Day, Vans Park Series, Vans Triple Crown of Surfing®, Vans Custom Culture, and Vans’ cultural hub and international music venue, House of Vans.
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