Vans Autism Awareness Collection

 Setting out to raise awareness for autism, Vans has now launched a sensory inclusive collection where part of the proceeds will be donated to charity.

Aptly named the Autism Awareness Collection, the new drops span across several different silhouettes including a blue suede checkered ComfyCush Old Skool and two colorways of a plush checkerboard ComfyCush Slip-On PT, all available in adult sizing. The remaining three models — which include two ComfyCush Slip-On PT variations with a “LOVE” print and a holographic water pattern, as well as a ComfyCush New Skool V colorway, will be launched exclusively in kids and toddler sizes.

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“Since 1966, Vans has stood as a champion of individuality and self-expression,” says Vans. “With this project, Vans celebrates the unique aspects of all people. Designed specifically with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in mind, the ultra-comfortable footwear collection is offered with sensory-inclusive elements including a calming color palette and design features that focus on the senses of touch, sign and sound.”

As for the donation, We (Vans) has pledged a minimum of $100,000 USD from the proceeds of the collection to A.skate, an organization that helps children with autism to connect with the social world through skateboarding. Aside from holding clinics for children on the spectrum completely for free to families, A.skate also provides grants to them for skateboarding gear, as well as promote awareness while educating families about how beneficial and therapeutic skateboarding can be. 

According to Vans, the donation can support the education of 4,000 children with autism on how to skateboard.

The Vans Autism Awareness Collection will be available later this month over at Vans retailers or on the company’s online store.