Vans x Mami Wata Shine a Light on African Surf Culture
It’s time to ride the wave.
Loved by skateboarders and surfers around the word, Vans Surf is teaming up with African surf lifestyle brand Mami Wata.
While Hawaii and California tend to come to mind when people think of the beachy sport, the incredibly diverse continent is home to some of its best athletes. Translating to “Mama Water,” Mami Wata was founded in 2017 to champion the industry within Africa, supporting surf therapy organizations like Waves for Change and Surfers Not Street Children.
Vans Authentic VR3 SF is the collection’s star, arriving in the special “Mami Wata Cream” colorway. The soft off-white shoe is covered in Vans’ classic checkerboard pattern and adorned with vibrantly-colored illustrations along the sole. Joining the VR3 SF are the Style 36 Decon VR3 SF and the Sk8-Hi 138 Decon VR3 SF, both painted in the capsule’s hero shade. Responsibly sourced and recycled materials further the brands’ commitment to protecting the environment surfers owe their past time to.
Footwear is grounded by apparel that pays homage to the spirit of the sport as button-down shirts feature athletes surfing lions, while the feline predator rides the board itself on the back of a cozy pullover and T-shirt, appearing in a color palette of pastel green, yellow and pink. Playful checkered board shorts provide more coverage after a day of paddling out in the oceaon, while a deep camel hat boasting dynamic co-branding shields you from the strong sun.
Vans Surf x Mama Wati Collection will be available on Vans’ online store on February 16. Take a first look in the gallery above.
