How did the Odyssey / Vans collab come about, and when are the shoes available?

Nuno: Odyssey did a collection with Vans in 2015 for our 30-year anniversary, so we reached out to them in 2024 about possibly doing it again. And here we are! Coincidentally, Vans was working on a new BMX sneaker (the BMX Proof) and saw it as a great opportunity to introduce it through this collab. All together there will be a BMX Proof and a BMX Slip-On. 

What is the inspiration for the art direction of the 40 Year Anniversary logo?

Heading into 2025, we knew we wanted a logo/mark that we could use throughout the year on parts and soft goods, and knowing it would end up on these Vans. Dave Fortman designed the logo, and lightning bolts are just cool!  

The insoles feature asphalt and wood from the actual Full Factory/Odyssey ramps. What does it represent? 

Our riders generally ride everything, so asphalt is a nod to street riding, and the wood is a nod to transition and ramps. And yes, it's a photo of the actual Full Factory/Odyssey ramps where the Guest List videos are filmed. 

Slip-Ons feature all over print "alphabet soup”; who designed that?

Jim Bauer came up with the alphabet soup look, using familiar Odyssey branding all mixed up. Slip-Ons are great for patterns, so we knew we wanted to have some fun here.  

What is the PROOF model, and what is the inspiration behind the color way? 

The PROOF is an all-new BMX specific model from Vans. Top to bottom, all new. In terms of inspiration, we (Odyssey) wanted to do a shoe that was wearable on a daily basis that wasn't black. We also didn't want to lean into "retro", which we already did in our 30-year anniversary collab with Vans.  After kicking around some ideas, inspiration was right in front of our eyes courtesy of our packaging - raw card stock with red print. Coincidentally, some Vans boxes are very similar. Even though Odyssey is known for wild colors and patterns, we took this in a modern, timeless direction. 

How did the color choice of the classic gum midsole with Odyssey red stitching come about? 

The gum midsole is simply classic Vans. We love how it looks and it's the one common through line between both sneakers. It also reminds us of old school gumwall tires. Red is a common color used in Odyssey branding, hence the red stitching and other little hits. 

What is the material story? Leather, synthetic, canvas, textiles? What materials are used? 

Justin: Mostly suede for durability. Canvas makes an appearance as well. 

Vans has made many technological advances since the old days of flat insoles with little support. What kind of insole tech do these feature? 

Both products feature Vans Pop Cush Insoles. They’re comfy, great for rebound and don’t pack out so quickly, giving the product an extended lifecycle.

What about Vans Duracap and other components that add to the durability of the shoes? Do these feature any of this? 

Vans included extra durability on the medial/crank side of the shoe, added padding for all around protection, Pop cush insoles, internal toe reinforcement, and elastic lace keepers that you can tuck your laces into. 

Vans developed a BMX-specific "Wafflecup" outsole not long ago, which is "cup sole" construction instead of the traditional vulcanized construction that Vans was always known for. What type of sole is being used? 

Naturally, the BMX WaffleCup is a must. Vans created the sole to be more supportive for pedal wear/tear and impact protection. The outsole does have increased stiffness and a unique tread pattern for pedal feel and grip. Worth noting, the BMX Proof features a new BMX WaffleCup sole.

There's an accompanying long sleeve and hat that tie back to the footwear. When will everything be available? 

The collection is available now worldwide.