Advisory Board Crystals, the avant-garde streetwear brand known for its out-of-the-box designs, initially divided sneaker enthusiasts with their debut Vans collaboration. Co-founders Heather Haber and Remington Guest unapologetically stated, “We made a shoe for us, for our brand, and for our consumer… we’re happy with that.” But their latest venture with Vans shows a shift towards a more inclusive approach.

Teased in Advisory Board Crystals’ Fall/Winter 2023 lookbook, the Abc. x Vans Sk8-Hi offers a more familiar and accessible silhouette. As a staple in both the skateboarding community and popular culture for the past four decades, the high-top skate shoe is a safe choice for their second collaboration. Unlike the previous “Beige/Brown/Olive” color scheme, these new Sk8-Hi models come in “Black/White” and “Navy,” appealing to a wider audience.

But don’t be fooled by the straightforward color palette. The Abc. Sk8-Hi still manages to turn heads with its mismatched arrangement. This collection, which aims to juxtapose sport, mind, and consciousness, includes three variations of the iconic silhouette. Haber and Guest, known for their attention to detail, have tampered with proportions and introduced ripstop nylon and suede materials accompanied by jazz stripes. They’ve also incorporated the lacing system and authentication hologram from their previous collaboration. Practical modifications, such as pull tabs and an inner bootie component, enhance comfort and functionality. And of course, the unmistakable “Abc.” branding appears throughout the trio, most notably on the tip of the reinforced midsole.

While a specific release date for the Abc. x Vans Sk8-Hi collaboration has yet to be confirmed, Haber and Guest have assured Sneaker News that the shoes will be available this fall. Unlike the more exclusive Abc. EVDNT EXT ULTI, expect these pairs to be more widely accessible at regular Vans stockists.

So, if you’re a fan of both Advisory Board Crystals and Vans, keep an eye out for updates on this highly anticipated release. And in the meantime, check out the CLOT x adidas Originals collection, which just debuted at Shanghai Fashion Week. Footwear enthusiasts are in for a treat!