Vans Is Quietly Restocking Its Most Popular Shoe of the Year

Vans — and the wider vulcanized skate shoe world as a whole — are having a moment. And while there’s still a long way to go before the VF Corp. owned-and-operated brand recaptures the energy of its 2010s glory days, sought-after releases like the Old Skool “Souvenir” have helped the label build some much-needed momentum. Soon, the long-sold-out style’s debut colorway will be restocked from select retailers.

The Souvenir Vans Old Skool’s debut Warm Brown look will be rereleased Monday. Despite the Warm Brown style name drawn from its leather adornments, the dominant shades on the shoe are a washed-out green mixed with multicolor splotches. The look is drawn from Chanel’s On the Pavements Messenger from Karl Lagerfeld’s spring 2015 “Boulevard Chanel” collection. 

While not an official collaboration, nor has Vans formally acknowledged the high-fashion inspiration, the concept was confirmed by former Vans designer Greg Betty. During his tenure as senior footwear designer lead of color and trend for OTW by Vans and Vans Premium, Betty also had a hand in Bottega Veneta-inspired woven looks. Betty now works as senior principal of streetwear design for global Jordan at Nike, Inc.’s Jordan Brand.

In a coincidental twist, Nike is set to release a new Air Force 1 Low “Bouclé” style which has drawn comparisons to the coveted Vans colorway. However, given the timing of each launch, it’s unlikely that Nike was outright inspired by the Vans shoe as the start-to-finish timeline for sneaker production often takes years. 

Vans followed up the debut Souvenir release with a burgundy colorway, and even more variations on the theme are expected in 2026. 

Those who are still hoping to get their hands on the Vans Old Skool Souvenir will have a chance soon. Sign-ups for Kith’s drawing are open now, with Lapstone & Hammer holding a raffle Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. Retail pricing for the sneaker is $125.