Colorado-based designer Nicole McLaughlin and Vans have come together for their second collaboration together, showcasing McLaughlin’s innovative and playful design practice.
Following the release of their “Gardening Tote” Slip-On in 2023, the two expand their partnership with a collection inspired by vintage camping backpacks that includes shoes, socks, and a bag.
Nicole McLaughlin x Vans "Gardening Tote" Slip-On (2023) 🌱 pic.twitter.com/oOAp8xoBml
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Inspired by Nicole McLaughlin’s insatiable curiosity and love for exploration, this Vans x Nicole McLaughlin collection is a tribute to adventure. Known for transforming single-use materials into inventive, multi-functional designs, Nicole infuses the collection with her signature creativity. Blending utility with bold, unconventional style, this collaboration redefines the balance between fashion and function.
“It’s key to have elements of functionality, mixed with a sense of conceptual art and style,” says Nicole McLaughlin. “Creating pieces that can be multi-purpose, but also fun has always been my goal. I was inspired by vintage hiking packs from the ‘70s and the aesthetic of outdoor gear from that era for the collection.”
Using those inspirations, Nicole and Vans created the Rucksack Slip-On, a utility-focused take on the classic Vans Slip-On that features a rucksack pocket on the toe and adjustable nylon webbing. This shoe is designed for both durability and functionality, with uppers made from 40% recycled canvas and treated with PFC-free DWR for waterproof protection. Meanwhile, its lugged tread outsole ensures reliable traction across multiple surfaces. The footwear will be available in two colors: Tan and Grey.
The shoes are accompanied by a pair of “rucksocks,” featuring a military cargo pocket on each sock for added utility and flair, along with a chalk bag that is made of 40% recycled canvas.
The Vans x Nicole McLaughlin collection will be available first on nicolemclaughlin.com, dropping on February 26th. A wider release via vans.com and select retailers will take place on February 27th. The Grey Slip-On will be available exclusively online at both partners’ websites. Check out the product shots and campaign images below.
Nicole McLaughlin x Vans RS Slip-On “Tan”
Color: Tan
Style Code: VN000S99JM9
Release Date: February 26, 2025 (Nicole McLaughlin)
Release Date: February 27, 2025 (Global)
Price: $130 USD
Nicole McLaughlin x Vans RS Slip-On “Grey”
Color: Grey/Black
Style Code: VN000S99N43
Release Date: February 26, 2025 (Nicole McLaughlin)
Release Date: February 27, 2025 (Vans website)
Price: $130 USD
Nicole Mclaughlin x Vans Rucksock
Color: Oatmeal
Release Date: February 26, 2025 (Nicole McLaughlin)
Release Date: February 27, 2025 (Global)
Price: $25 USD
Nicole McLaughlin x Vans Rucksack
Color: Oatmeal
Release Date: February 26, 2025 (Nicole McLaughlin)
Release Date: February 27, 2025 (Global)
Price: $120 USD
