June 10, 2020
VANS X JUSTIN HENRY
In many cases, it takes a community coming together to create change, growth and — perhaps most importantly — to shape the next generation. For Vans’ Justin Henry, those words reflect a personal goal that’s become like a mantra: “No youth, no future.” We couldn’t agree more.
With strong ties to his hometown of Columbus, Ohio, and its local skateboard community, Justin Henry grew up skating crusty spots and learning the value of putting in work and making each try count. His journey from young talent to budding pro was captured in a recent short film by Vans, Justin Henry’s World Peace , in which his humble attitude and determination to give back shines through. That sentiment is also reflected in the Style 36 Pro Justin Henry —a fresh take on white, pebble grain leather, that conveys a minimalist, elevated-yet-sporty aesthetic, built with the durability that Vans Skate shoes have become synonymous with. The limited-edition shoe is available through select Vans Skate retailers.
Vans Presents: Justin Henry's World Peace | Skate | VANS
Inspired by the collaboration with Justin, Vans is giving back to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio with a $10k donation. After volunteering at a local event to help kids learn how to skateboard, Justin says his perspective shifted. “We taught these kids who had never rode skateboards before, and never had an opportunity to get a skateboard,” he said. “The kids were just so happy. After doing that, I realized, all the selfish goals you have, they’re really not as cool as just helping others, you know?”
For the Style 36 Pro, Justin wanted to accomplish a more understated look with a nod to the ‘80s, as well as a call-out to his namesake, which is stealthily embossed on the tongue. The shoes are finished with the words “World” and “Peace” on the outsole and laces. Accompanying the Style 36 Pro is a jacquard-print tote featuring cherubs inspired by a vintage ‘70s sewing bag gifted to Justin by his aunt. While paying tribute to his support system of family and friends back home, the tote also signifies a peaceful vibe that ties back to the shoe.
Justin Henry’s clean, sturdy style is fun to watch. He grew up skating weather-warped spots across his proud home state of Ohio — the result of which is an effortless style, whether skating impossibly perfect ledges in California or gritty stair sets in NYC. In 2018, Justin earned a part in Quasi’s full-length release “Mother” and was featured in Thrasher’s Am Scramble video.
The limited-edition Style 36 Justin Henry shoe is now available at select Vans Skate retail partners.
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