Oct 15, 2026

VANS AND SZA RELEASE VANSZA DROP 1 CAMPAIGN SHOT IN CALIFORNIA

Vans and SZA share the VANSZA Drop 1 campaign, shot in California. The collection launches October 22 at Vans stores and Vans.com.

Share this article

image about the VANSZA Drop 1 campaign from Vans and SZA, shot in California, with details on the footwear, apparel, release date and two in-store appearances.

Summary:

Vans and SZA released the VANSZA Drop 1 campaign, photographed in California by India Sleem.
Drop 1 includes the Knu Skool Mule, the Authentic Kickdown and outdoor-inspired apparel.
The collection goes on sale October 22, 2026, and SZA appears in stores on October 17 and 21.

Vans and SZA have released the campaign images for VANSZA Drop 1, the first part of their collaboration. Vans named SZA artistic director in August 2025. The collection first appeared in September at a public New York Fashion Week event at 260 Bowery in Manhattan.

India Sleem photographed the campaign in California, and Yudo Kurita shot the product and outdoor images. The pictures place oversized silhouettes, distressed finishes and mixed patterns against dry grassland and rocky terrain.

Two shoes lead the drop. The Knu Skool Mule removes the heel from the skate-inspired Knu Skool and turns the shoe into an open-back slip-on. The Authentic Kickdown has a collapsible heel, so you wear the shoe as a regular sneaker or fold the heel down and slip your foot in. The upper is distressed canvas with custom artwork by Sage Adams, including fish graphics. Vans says the heel design comes from SZA’s habit of stepping on the backs of her shoes.

The apparel draws on vintage outdoor clothing, DIY customization and workwear. Pieces include oversized outerwear, relaxed cargo trousers, washed denim and T-shirts with fish-inspired graphics. The Denim Hunting Jacket and Multi-Pocket Denim Pant add corduroy details and large pockets.

Drop 1 goes on sale October 22, 2026, at Vans retail locations and on Vans.com. Drop 2 follows on April 8, 2027, with the LX Tabi Hiker, a split-toe hiking shoe.

SZA also makes two in-store appearances in the US. She visits Vans Glendale Galleria in California on October 17 and Foot Locker at Freehold Raceway Mall in New Jersey on October 21. Vans lists the October 17 event as early access, with Drop 1 on sale from 3 p.m. and limited fan access. If you plan to attend, check the event details on Vans.com first.

Kristin Kaye

Insatiably curious about human expression, she immerses herself in literature, theater, art, and dance. Her academic journey led to degrees in Modern Literature, where she delved into The Furioso, and Historical Sciences with a focus on Contemporary History. Her studies took her to the prestigious Erasmus University Rotterdam, broadening her international perspective.

Her passion for culture isn't confined to personal enjoyment—it spills onto the pages of various publications. There, she explores not only artistic endeavors but also civil rights issues and the myriad ways human culture manifests itself. For her, writing about these topics isn't just a profession; it's an irresistible calling that stems from her deep-seated fascination with the human experience.