Vans and SZA Debut First Collaborative Capsules Under the VANSZA Line
PublishedQuick Facts
- SZA's first two Vans collab capsules have been unveiled
- The first drop will take place on October 22, 2026, with the second coming April 8, 2027
- Check below for details on both capsules
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Many in the sneaker game have shifted focus from retro basketball kicks by titans like Nike and Jordan, and instead have taken a liking to the designer aesthetic of Vans. The Pearlized Pack, Mattias Gollin collabs, retailer link-ups, and the Chanel On the Pavement-inspired Souvenir Old Skool are just the tip of the iceberg in the recent obsession with the SoCal skate originators. Once again teaming up with a renowned musician, Vans has finally debuted its first collaborative capsule with TDE artist SZA.
VANSZA NYFW Pop-Up
To celebrate the debut of its collaborative partnership with SZA, Vans is hosting the VANSZA experience, a pop-up showroom at 260 Bowery in NYC from September 10-11. Inside the space are pieces from SZA’s first two Vans capsules, all inspired by SZA’s world where “instinct, creativity and exploration converge.” Walking through the pop-up, you’ll see apparel and footwear spread across a forest-like set-up, featuring fallen leaves, trees, and an unmistakable autumn feel.
“This collection is really a reflection of how I live and what inspires me every day. I wanted to create pieces that feel comfortable, functional, and expressive, whether you're on a trail, in the city or discovering something new about yourself. Working with Vans gave me the freedom to explore ideas rooted in creativity, curiosity and play, and my hope is that people feel inspired to step outside their comfort zone, trust their instincts and have fun making something uniquely their own,” explained SZA.
VANSZA Footwear
SZA technically already has produced collaborative footwear with Vans, albeit 1-of-1 customs made exclusively for her, but the artistic director of the SoCal brand is ready to give the public a taste of what she’s been cooking. For the first drop slated for October, SZA is working on the Vans Authentic and a mule version of the Knu Skool. The latter of the two keeps it simple with a black-and-white color palette, but the Authentic goes distressed, with fish graphics adorning the upper. The Authentic also features a deconstructed heel that is collapsible for easy slip-on, specifically designed to mimic SZA’s lifelong habit of stepping on the backs of her shoes.
VANSZA drop two, slated for April 2027, features a new silhouette developed for the collaboration, the LX Tabi Hiker. The low-top outdoor silhouette features a tabi-toe construction, a rugged rubber outsole that partially wraps up the side, and a tongue-less forefoot secured by cable laces. Three colorways have been previewed, including a Florida Gators-friendly Blue, orange, and green colorway, a brown-and-green pair, and finally a stealthy black-and-red combo. The final piece of the Spring 2027 drop is a RealTree camo-covered Vans Knu Skool.
VANSZA Apparel
Alongside the sneakers is an apparel capsule. There are several workwear-inspired silhouettes like the Trompe L’Oeil Fleece set, which mimics the look of a workwear jacket from SZA’s wardrobe onto the fleece set. Also included in the collection are graphic print hoodies, socks, flame-adorned caps, denim jackets, pants, and much more.
VANSZA Release Info
The first SZA x Vans collection will be released October 22, 2026 through Vans and select retailers online and in-store. This first drop includes the Vans Authentic and the Vans Knu Skool Mule. The second VANSZA drop will take place April 8, 2027 and feature the LX Tabi Hiker and RealTree Knu Skool. Check below for images and info for all the SZA x Vans footwear, and download the Sole Retriever mobile app for real-time updates on the latest happenings in the sneaker world.
SZA x Vansza Knu Skool Mule Black White
SZA x Vansza Authentic Knockdown
SZA x Vansza LX Tabi Hiker Brown Green
SZA x Vansza LX Tabi Hiker Black Red
SZA x Vansza LX Tabi Hiker Blue Orange
SZA x Vansza Knu Skool RealTree
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com
