Legendary tattoo artist and graphic designer BJ Betts joins forces with Vans for the first-time to deliver a new range of “Made for the Makers” sneakers that applies his distinct aesthetic to three classic silhouettes. Over the past two plus decades, BJ Betts has forged an unmistakable style, blending traditional tattoo elements with gothic imagery and Japanese folklore, that is hallmarked by an emphasis on unique fonts and precise lettering. Having released a series of industry standard guides on lettering, Betts’ relevance to graphic design and tattoo art is undisputed.
Tapping into the ornate designs that he’s become known for, Betts worked with Vans to update a trio of Classics—the Old Skool, Authentic and Slip-On, featuring original camouflage patterns in muted military-inspired colors. Each of the styles feature mixed suede and canvas uppers in liquid and dirt repellant Vansguard® coating, camouflage UltraCush sockliners and Vans’ “Made for the Makers” benefits including slip-resistant vulcanized lugged outsoles, maximizing comfort without sacrificing personal style. Betts’ has added a personal touch on the pull tabs at the heel, with digits representing his birth year (’71) alongside the original Vans style numbers.
I wanted to have a collection that could be worn easily and comfortably while working, with the stain resistant qualities that allow me to head out for a nice dinner looking presentable with a simple wipe down of my shoes. The shoes are generally the first thing that is noticed, am I wrong?
The camo pattern and its colors are inspired by my military service, and my Grandfather's service as well, who was one of the best men that ever walked this earth, and who this whole project is dedicated to.‘’
-BJ Betts
Lapstone & Hammer is honored to be the exclusive retail partner for BJ's first Vans project. To release in tandem with the sneakers, we have created a matching set of tonal hand-dyed tees that feature the Vans logo accented with BJ's hand-drawn flourishes on the front, and BJ Betts and Lapstone branding written in his unique lettering style on the back. These shirts will be exclusively available at Lapstone & Hammer for $50 each.
The BJ Betts x Vans "Made for the Makers" pack will be available September 10, 2020 @10:00am only online at lapstoneandhammer.com.
