innovation + advanced concepts
The Vans AVE 2.0 Knit - Ultimate Waffle evolution
Neal Shoemaker's final design componentry. Uncompromised function and fit realized as Van's grippiest and most durable skateboarding shoe ever. Brian Best's warped waffle tread design maximizes durability and grip while utilizing Vans' grippiest outsole rubber compound fitted with an exposed Bio-TPU mid-foot shank for support and protection. The upper features Vans' RapidWeld seamless bonded suede construction.
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2020 rough ideation sketch for advanced concept kickoff. Bio-Based TPU enables usage of a newly developed grippier and more durable rubber compound while improving the support and grip of the original Ultimate Waffle construction with fewer components.
Max Vorlop's designs for the AVE signature apparel collection.
Vans Ultimate Waffle construction
Launched in 2019 - started in 2016 as a design led Advanced Concept. Designers had created many leading performance technologies but were always asked to hide the technology - BMW Designworks suggested the we simply "make it visible". My design provocation was to make the best skateboarding shoe possible, without compromise. The best durability, grip, and support.
Inspiration images.
Nate Iott's first Ultimate Waffle concept sketch; "Make it visible"
The Ultimate Waffle; Durability, Grip, Support without compromise. Visual design language representing each essential skateboarding need.
The Ultimate Waffle; Durability, Grip, Support without compromise. Visual design language representing each essential skateboarding need.
Break Vans' design conservatism and visually identify ways to show durability, support and cushioning that a skateboarder would instantly understand...
Neal Shoemaker's selected design sketch. Neal worked closely with AVE to evolve the 2016 AVE RapidWeld Pro upper design - that featured a seamless forefoot construction and linework inspired by the 1977 Vans "Style 36" - to fit the new Ultimate Waffle outsole construction and design ethos.
Thoroughly tested and refined by AVE along with Vans' team, designers and developers.
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The Vans Ultimate Waffle - Introduced by Anthony Van Engelen
Skateboarding Durability Research
Years of experimentation and development work starting around 2010 have helped Vans Skateboarding build some of the best performing, most durable skateboarding shoes ever made.
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Lab test results comparing Vans rubber formulas, foam compounds, and upper materials/constructions to the athletic footwear giants is shown above.
Video: Durastitch is the final evolution of a thread innovation started by the VF Global Innovation Center.
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Through Vans Advanced Concepts trials and testing we realized that it offers very high skateboarding specific durability while also allowing maximum breathability and flexibility.
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The AVE Pro EXP is a limited edition project featuring Durastitch technology introduced in late 2021. Original concept and design by Nate Iott with final execution done by Neal Shoemaker in collaboration with Anthony Van Engelen and F.A.
Cushioning - informed by performance skateboarding
The Zahba "Impact Waffle" construction featuring a new dual durometer 50% bio-based compression EVA midsole foam.
The UltraRange Neo followed using an injected version of Vans' 50% bio-based EVA. It instantly had great feedback on its comfort and cushioning.
Trail running competitor set testing shows how the 2024 Vans CrossPath's underfoot cushioning data compares well with Nike React and other polymer based foam compounds that do not have sustainable or bio-based ingredients.
Cushioning index using compliance and resilience data to visually explain the properties of outsole stack design and foam properties.
Product usage and positioning can inform design and materials usage to control ride and experience of specific products.
