Vans Launched a Sensory-Inclusive Footwear Collection
Vans, one of the major skateboarding shoe manufacturers, has launched their “Vans <3 You” campaign which aims to raise awareness for persons living with autism. As part of the campaign, the company created an Autism Awareness Collection of sensory-friendly footwear and apparel.
The Vans design team worked with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, a board of leaders and experts in autism and sensory disorders, to ensure that their designs included the desired touch, sight and sound for persons with sensory issues. The following design elements were chosen for this collection:
- A calming colour palette that consists of different shades of gray and blue
- Easy slip-on designs
- Single strap hook-and-loop closure
- Heel pulls for an easy on-and-off fit
- Textile uppers
- A combination of canvas and suede uppers
- Rubber soles for durability and traction
- Moisture-wicking lining materials
- ComfyCush outsole
The company will also donate a minimum of $100,000 of this footwear collection’s proceeds to “A.skate”, an organisation that allows children with autism to form part of a social world through skateboarding. Skateboarding is considered as a good form of Occupational Therapy that focuses on proprioceptive, vestibular and motor skills, and includes a range of social and behavioral benefits for children with autism.
Vans’ sensory-inclusive collection can be found here.
For more information about the A.skate Foundation, visit here.
Alternatively, if you need further information on how to make facilities or services more accessible and inclusive, please do not hesitate to contact one of our team on (01) 415 12 85 or e-mail [email protected].
