[Update 3 Nov 2022] More news have been unveiled about this rugged collaboration, and it’s bigger than we thought. Adding onto the four mentioned silhouettes (Vans Era, Half Cab, Old Skool and Chukka), the winter-ready Hi-Country & Hell-Bound LX Snowboard Boot, the Standard Snow MTE and Coast CC NS LX are also joining the line up. These seven silhouettes feature similar suede material and WTAPS branding, exuding an urban militant aesthetic. 

Complementing these kicks are a line of clothing and accessories. A WTAPS MTE Jacket is equipped with outdoor-ready tech — taped DWR-coated seams, welted pockets and bungee adjustments.  Other apparel include tees, hoodies, joggers and beanies. 

The collection will be dropping in two parts. The first part includes the lifestyle kicks which will be released on 5 Nov via WTAPS and 29 Nov via Vans. Subsequently, the remaining line up will be released through WTAPS on 19 Nov and on Vans on 16 Dec. The entire collection ranges for JPY16,500 to JPY19,800 (~US$112 to ~US$135) for the sneakers. 

WTAPS, led by Tetsu Nishiyama, is bringing its urban utility philosophy to Vans again, this time on a full suite of iconic silhouettes. Included are the skateboarding-approved Vans Era, Half Cab, Old Skool and the wintery Chukka Boots. Compared to the two brands’ previous link up, which saw Vans’ models equipped with small elements of branding, this Fall/Winter 2022 collaborative collection is more playful in its choice of textiles and logos.

Specifically, suede is the material of choice in this collaboration, and it makes sense given WTAPS’ heavy inspiration from military wear. Among the range of military footwear, suede boots are a popular choice given the hide’s durability and protective capacities. Though the four silhouettes are by no means combat-approved, they’ve proved their abilities in the battlefield of sports and skating, which must count for something! Regardless, a cool-toned brown suede is employed with matching laces. Furthering WTAPS’ involvement are the stitched crossbones along the upper.

Given the Half Cab’s higher top, WTAPS also manages to add its SPEC. WT-VUA SPEC 201-205 detailing to the collar. Overall, this WTAPS x Vans collection feels more elevated than its previous iterations and would find an audience with fans of the crossbone.

No release dates have been uncovered at the moment, but more official information is sure to make a landing in due time.

In the meantime, if distressed GORPcore is your preferred way to don militia garb, then why not check out this New Balance 2002R GORE-TEX?

Images via @le.syndrome