Vans is no stranger to crazy shoe collaborations, which is why we weren’t surprised by their recent Shark Week line. However, we were a little surprised at how well the collaboration came together. What could have been a hideous display of faux-sharkskin shoes and shark tooth necklaces (shudder), turned out to be a playful spin on Discovery’s classic TV series. And with the latest season of Shark Week rolling out to viewers worldwide on July 28, now is the time to support sharks everywhere with one of these wacky pieces.
But more than colorful sneakers and shorts, buying one of the below items goes to a good cause. A portion of all sales goes towards Oceana, a non-profit ocean conservation organization. So not only are you stepping up your style with a purchase, you’re also contributing to the betterment of our oceans.
The Vans x Shark Week collab consists of 16 different items, from shoes and shorts to hoodies and shirts. The majority of the pieces are, unfortunately, geared towards the younger crowd, but we found a few gems fit for adults.
1. Vans X Shark Week Sk8-Hi
The Vans SK8-Hi is a staple for every skater and beachgoer, alike. Not only do the high tops protect against rolled ankles, but the tough construction of the shoe holds up no matter how many kickflips you attempt and fail. Featuring a black upper with a blue graphic of a great white shark biting through the stripe, the Shark Week Sk8-HI embodies everything that is great (and terrifying) about Shark Week.
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Strike fear into the hearts of friends, family and fellow skaters when you rock these with a pair of crisp black jeans and a clean white T. These Sk8-Hi work just as well as a casual daytime sneaker as an evening conversation starter. Just make sure you cuff your pants enough so friends can see Jaw’s menacing grin.
2. Vans X Shark Week Long Sleeve T-Shirt
Aside from practically inventing the casual canvas sneaker, Vans has been responsible for constantly pushing checkered print, and even making it look cool. Some of the most popular Vans shoes feature all over print checks, and this long sleeve Shark Week collab takes that motif and runs with it. The shirt features a large, blue cartoon shark with a blue checkered body on the back, and a running line of the Vans x Shark Week logo along the sleeves. A final graphic on the left chest shows the written out collaboration.
Great as a post surf shirt or even a crisp white long sleeve to wear on those cool summer nights, this long sleeve shirt is a must-have for Shark Week fans.
3. Vans X Shark Week Boardshort
While the majority of the Vans x Shark Week collaboration features gear made for outside the water, we couldn’t leave out this piece designed for the beach. The Shark Week Boardshort features a playful clashing patchwork print design with tiny black shark icons littered throughout.
These boardshorts are made of 100% water-resistant polyester for easy movement in and out of the water. Stand out at your next BBQ or beach day with a pair of these and know you not only look great, but are supporting a good cause, as well.
Bonus: Vans Yacht Club Old Skool
Though not part of the Shark Week collaboration, this pair of Vans Old Skool low tops shares the same oceanic style. Featuring blue, green, yellow and red color blocking and a suede upper, this shoe will add some life to any outfit you’re wearing. We recommend pairing with a slightly muted pair of jeans and a plain shirt (best with raw denim and a white shirt) so as not to draw attention away from your shoes. And if you’re feeling generous, you can always donate to Oceana or the Surfrider Foundation after you pick up a pair.