SZA has never been one to follow the rules simply because they exist. Now, with Vans, she is turning that mindset into VANSZA, a new footwear and apparel collection shaped by her personal world, where nature, creativity and self-expression collide. Releasing on 22 October 2026, Drop 1 takes familiar Vans silhouettes and gives them a more relaxed, playful identity, built around comfort and the freedom to wear things your own way.
At the centre of the collection are two reworked classics: the VANSZA Knu Skool Mule and the VANSZA Authentic Kickdown. Both reflect SZA’s preference for shoes that are easy to slip on, taking the habit of stepping on the back of a sneaker and turning it into an intentional design choice. As she explains, her mother has spent years telling her to stop crushing the backs of her shoes and SZA has built that into a new collection with Vans.
”I created a step-down shoe, and then I took the whole back off the Knu Skool because, why not? Less effort. More fun. More accessibility. More comfort. More color.” she says.
Familiar Vans, Reimagined by SZA
The VANSZA Kickdown brings that idea to life through distressed canvas, custom artwork by Sage Adams and a collapsible heel that shifts between a traditional shoe and an easy slip-on. The Knu Skool Mule takes the concept even further by removing the back of the chunky skate silhouette, creating a more open, casual alternative. Both designs put practicality alongside personal expression, allowing small changes to transform how classic Vans styles feel and function.
The collection extends beyond footwear into apparel and accessories, drawing on vintage outdoor gear, DIY customisation and workwear. Oversized outerwear and relaxed cargo silhouettes add a functional edge, while the fish-inspired graphics introduce the humour and eccentricity that runs through SZA’s personal style.
A Creative World Built Around Nature
The campaign expands the vision through imagery photographed by India Sleem across California’s natural landscapes, with product and landscape photography by Yudo Kurita. Vans Skate Team rider Zion Wright appears alongside models Caylee Blosenski and Isabella Carr, as well as musician Vans, bringing together a cast connected by creativity and individuality.
Nature provides more than a backdrop for the collection. The landscape mirrors the collection’s emphasis on texture, mood and discovery, helping establish VANSZA as an extension of SZA’s own creative universe.
VANSZA Drop 1 launches on 22 October 2026 at Vans retail locations and through Vans.com/sza
