Vans is starting this year with a strong collaboration with Valentino Garavani. Following the success of their first partnership launched last year, Maison Valentino and Vans are back under the creative direction of Alessandro Michele to present the second chapter of their collaborative journey as part of the Cruise 2026 collection.
Creative Vision
What sets the collection apart is its diversity of artistic expression across six unisex styles, each bringing their own unique visual narrative while still keeping the classic Vans style. Under Michele’s guidance, all pairs remain faithful to their skate roots.
Black/Red VLogo Checkerboard
One of the standout styles is the black and red VLogo Checkerboard Slip-On. This design reimagines Vans’s iconic checkerboard pattern by interweaving Valentino’s VLogo Signature into the grid. The interplay of red and black gives the sneaker a bolder look. It is paired with traditional Vans Slip-Ons elements like the elastic side panels and the classic waffle sole.
Black/Pink VLogo Checkerboard
To complement the black/red version the two brands also created a black and pink VLogo Checkerboard. Like its counterpart, this pair also combines the legendary checkerboard pattern with Valentino’s VLogo Signature into a fresh way. The softer pink tones go well with the classic black base.
VLogo Big Dots Black/White/Red
Another variation in the lineup is the VLogo Big Dots Vans, the oversized dot motif places enlarged graphics across the upper, mixing Vans’ checkboard pattern with an almost pop-art graphic. The black, white and red palette on this pair blends in with the rest of the collection, but still gives off a unique visual identity.
Tropical Leaves
To continue the graphic narrative the Tropical Leaves design introduces a somewhat unexpected, lush botanical motif to the collection. A vibrant green and orange leaf scene is seen across the Slip-On’s canvas upper, giving a summery touch to the upper.
Valentino Le Chat de Maison
Perhaps the most beloved motif to return in this collaboration is the Valentino Le Chat de le Maison. First introduced in the initial partnership, this illustration has become a symbol of Michele’s approach to design, mixing in fashion with a lighthearted charm. The Le Chay motif gives more of a character to the sneaker. This design features an illustrated cat, which has become an iconic mascot for the partnership. It is a hallmark of Michel’s artistic style, other pairs in the collaboration emphasise on repeated patterns and vibrant colour blocking, but with the Le Chat Slip-On all attention goes to the graphic itself.
Cherryfic Pattern
The Cherryfic Pattern features all-over cherry graphics, and plays with a mix of colour and form. The cherries are added as a sense of fun and a symbolic reference to themes of sweetness ans vitality.
Co-Branding and Release
Across all six designs, co-branded insoles and custom packaging reinforce the collaboration between the two brands. The special packaging features Vans checkboard motif with Valentino’s VLogo signature.
The Valentino Garavani x Vans Cruise 2026 collection officially launched on January 15, 2026. Pairs will be available globally on Valentino.com, Vans.com, in Valentino boutiques around the globe and at the Vans flagship store in Paris.
