Vans gives the Old Skool 36 a new visual treatment with the Pearlized Yacht Club edition, using sailing flags as the starting point for its color scheme. The design draws on maritime graphics and pairs contrasting tones with decorative surface details inspired by customization and wear.
SNEAKERS
The shoe uses a distressed upper as the base for pearl and crystal accents. These embellishments create the impression of a pair that has changed through use and personal alteration. Vans builds that effect into the material treatment instead of presenting the sneaker with a pristine finish. Detailed stitching adds definition to the upper, while a glossy sidewall changes the appearance of the sole and introduces another finish into the design.
The color arrangement references sailing flags, whose visual language relies on strong combinations of color and graphic division. Vans translates that source into the Old Skool 36 through nautical blocking and connects it with the irreverent styling of 1990s sportswear. The result gives the familiar skate silhouette a more decorative character while keeping its established shape recognizable.
The Old Skool 36 has roots in Style 36, which Vans introduced in 1977. The company created it as its second skate shoe, and the model introduced the Sidestripe™ for the first time. Vans later renamed Style 36 the Old Skool™ during the early 1990s. After the sneaker reached its 30th anniversary, Vans included it within the Classic category.
For this edition, Vans also applies the principles of its Premium line. The company uses that range to update classic models through improved comfort, higher-grade materials and revisions to form, fit and feel. The Pearlized Yacht Club follows that framework while giving the Old Skool 36 a distinct surface treatment and color identity.
Vans connects the release with Paris’ Fête de la Musique through imagery featuring DJ Hank Korsan. The brand followed Korsan during the event and documented the sneaker within a setting linked to music, creativity and self-expression. That campaign gives the launch a cultural reference beyond the product itself while keeping the footwear visible within an active event context.
The Yacht Club colorway arrives on September 10, 2026, through Vans.com and selected Vans retail stores. Vans plans additional Old Skool 36 Pearlized versions throughout the season through its website, retail network and wholesale partners.
For EMEA, the Marshmallow colorway returns on September 10. Lime Pop follows on November 10, with Navy returning on November 19. Black/Marshmallow arrives on November 27, and Red launches on December 10.
