Vans Surf joins forces with African surf lifestyle brand Mami Wata for a head-to-toe collection that draws inspiration from African surf culture, key historical and cultural events, and the power and positivity of surfing. The Vans Authentic VR3 SF heads a curated assortment of additional footwear styles, apparel, and accessories.
The sneaker, dressed in Mami Wata Cream (PHP 5,998.00), follows Vans’ strict materials guidelines with one or a combination of regenerative, responsibly sourced, renewable, and recycled materials making up at least 30% of the product.
The upper features leather and organic cotton. All the rubber used to make this outsole (60% of the compound) is grown and sourced from farms utilizing agricultural practices intended to promote biodiversity, enhance water cycles, improve soil health, and/or sequester carbon. In addition, the brand-new VR3Cush™ drop-in footbed uses 25 percent biobased EVA foam partially derived from plants.
By utilizing bold graphic details in contrast to a micro-Checkerboard, inspired by hand-woven fabrics popular throughout Africa, this collection pays homage to the past while giving a vibrant nod to the future generations that will live and define African surf culture. The new apparel features a Mami Wata Pullover, short-sleeve tees, a woven shirt, board shorts, and a hat.
Founded in 2017, Mami Wata translates to “Mama Water” or Mother Ocean in West African Pidgin English. Based out of Cape Town, Mami Wata’s mission is to offer a different narrative of surfing and Africa to the world and to educate and share the positive effects of surfing with everyone.
The Vans x Mami Wata Collection debuted globally last February 16, 2023, at Vans.com and these select Vans PH stores:
Trinoma
Glorietta 3
Robinsons Place Manila
Ayala Center Cebu
Alabang Town Center
UP Town Center
SM Megamall
SM North Edsa
SM Fairview
Festival Mall
Greenbelt 3