vans creates autism awareness collection focusing on touch, sight and sound

vans has released a footwear collection featuring sensory-inclusive elements chosen specifically with autism spectrum disorder in mind. it features a calming color palette and design features that focus on the senses of touch, sign and sound.

images courtesy of vans

each pair of shoes in the autism awareness collection features supreme grip and utilizes vans‘ comfycush technology so they’re easy to wear all day. they include a model called the old skool, which features a blue suede upper in a checkerboard pattern with red velvet hearts and a special message on the back of each heel.
there’s also two colorways of a plush checkerboard comfycush slip-on PT, all available in adult sizing.

a second comfycush slip-on PT focusing on sight features a holographic water printed upper and blue twill sidewalls. made exclusively for kids and toddlers, the all-new comfycush new skool V features a rubber toe cap with added vamp overlay for durability, a single strap hook-and-loop closure.

‘since 1966, vans has stood as a champion of individuality and self-expression,’ says vans. ‘with this project, vans celebrates the unique aspects of all people. designed specifically with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in mind, the ultra-comfortable footwear collection is offered with sensory-inclusive elements including a calming color palette and design features that focus on the senses of touch, sign and sound.’

vans will donate a portion of the proceeds — with a commitment of at least $100,000 — to A.skate, an organization that allows children with autism to be a part of the social world through skateboarding. the line will be available beginning this month at the vans e-commerce site and its retail stores. the shoes retail for around $50 while the t-shirts are $24 for the short-sleeve and $28 for the long-sleeve.

project info

company: vans
name: autism awareness collection
available: from march
price: from $24 for apparel and $50 for shoes