The skate/lifestyle crossover is most impactful when those that helped define it are involved. Anthony Van Engelen is a name that certainly belongs in that group; as co-founder of Fucking Awesome, A.V.E. has been a integral figure in the skateboarding world on and off the board, and working with Vans Skateboarding, he’s ushering in new standards of performance innovation and comfort to the ever-growing sport.
The AVE 2.0 is packed with innovation, from the Ultimate Waffle midsole that boasts UltraCush, a TPU mid-foot, and SickStick rubber outsoles, to the stitchless RapidWeld tech on the knit upper. It’s got the breathability, support, and security that skaters truly need, all packaged in a sleek lifestyle-friendly look via the molded suede toe- that should bring the silhouette onto the streets.
“20 years ago, skate shoes just gave the appearance of tech. Now, we’re in the future, where that technical design extends to the shoe’s performance.” says Anthony, who has been skating for over two decades.
This innovative new skate shoe is set to release on March 28th, 2024 at Vans and select skate-shops. Accompanying the footwear is a full-fledged apparel collection that includes denim pants, woven tops, and more pictured below.