Arguably one of the hottest collaborators in the sneaker industry, Joe Freshgoods hasn’t missed with his multiple projects via New Balance that have covered brand new silhouettes like the 9060 or classic models like the 993 or 990v3. Venturing away from the Boston-based footwear label, Joseph Robinson surprised the world earlier this year by collaborating with Vans on the Style 36 silhouette, however, In his latest Instagram dump JFG showcased the outsole of the Vans MTE Slip Hiker LX.
On top of the aforementioned MTE Slip Hiker, JFG and Vans reimagine the iconic Sk8-Hi silhouette to reflect a winter-ready puffer jacket. Each model comes in two colorways with the Sk8-Hi receiving the JFG-classic "Pink" and a "Copper" rendition while the MTE Slip Hiker LX gets a "Pink" and "White" iteration. Designed with functionality and comfort in mind, both offerings come with thick sole units ready to take on a winter day while also keeping one warm thanks to the puffy materials utilized on the upper. On the Sk8-Hi, JFG employs suede on the toebox, tongue, eyestays, and heel while typical Vans branding is spotted along the quilted quarter panel and back on the heel.
As explained by Joe himself, inspiration for the collection comes from the history of travel and leisure in the US, specifically the experiences of black travelers from the 40s, 50s, and 60s. "Green Books" (which are translated through the packaging for shirts and the box that houses the sneakers) were guides to help black travelers during the Jim Crow era that showcased black-friendly businesses such as hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and more that aided in the travel.
The Joe Freshgoods x Vans Chocolate Valley Resort Collection is set to release on January 21st, 2023 through the Joe Freshgoods website and his Every Now And Then storefront while a wider release through Vans may come at a later date. As of this writing, sizing and pricing information is TBA. Keep it locked to our Twitter and the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay up to date on info regarding JFGs latest Vans collab and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via Joe Freshgoods
Joe Freshgoods x Vans MTE Slip Hiker LX Chocolate Valley Resort "Pink"
Joe Freshgoods x Vans MTE Slip Hiker LX Chocolate Valley Resort "White"
Joe Freshgoods x Vans Sk8-Hi Chocolate Valley Resort "Pink"
Joe Freshgoods x Vans Sk8-Hi Chocolate Valley Resort "Copper"
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Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com
