OHIO: WHERE
THE FUNK WAS BORN
The Vans x Sole Classics Funk Pack is a four-shoe collection that pays tribute to Ohio’s deep musical roots, especially the birthplace of Funk, whose groove laid the groundwork for countless genres from hip-hop to modern R&B. Drawing inspiration from the state’s legendary sound and the culture that surrounded it, each pair in the pack channels the energy of Ohio’s trailblazing artists and the vibrant scenes that nurtured them. Materials, textures, and color stories echo the era’s rhythm and soul, turning classic Vans silhouettes into wearable tributes to the music that moved a generation.
More than a style statement, the Funk Pack celebrates the legacy of innovation that started in Ohio and spread worldwide. Every detail—from the mix of premium fabrics to subtle nods to vintage album art—invites wearers to honor the pioneers who created a beat that still drives today’s music. By blending Vans’ timeless design with the creative vision of Sole Classics, the collaboration captures the spirit of Funk as both a sound and a movement, one that continues to influence artists and listeners across decades and genres.
RELEASE DATE: 1/31/2015
$150 USD Men's Size 4-13
SK8-HI LX DESIGNED BY DIONTE' JOHNSON. SLIP-ON LX DESIGNED BY DIONTE' JOHNSON AND DERICK SMITH. CHUKKA LX DESIGNED BY DIONTE' JOHNSON, DERICK SMITH, AND JAMES DRAKEFORD. SLIP-ON PLATFORM DESIGNED BY DIONTE' JOHNSON.
"This might be my favorite project—though don’t tell the others I said that. It’s not just because of the design, even though we were the first to put a Jazz Stripe on a Chukka, and the details were nothing short of meticulous (look at how they change in different photos). The inspiration was legendary, but that’s not the whole reason either. What made this one special was the sheer complexity. We didn’t just collaborate with Vans; we hosted a pop-up in SoHo, partnered with 10 Deep on some wild merchandise, produced an actual vinyl album of original music, launched our own merch, captured incredible content, and even had a NYC recap video ready within hours of closing on day one.
In every way, this project was a true testament to teamwork, and our crew operated on another level from start to finish. It ended up being our final official collaboration before the pandemic hit, but even if it had been the last one ever, we would have gone out with a bang."
-Dionte' Johnson
RELEASE DAY
NEW YORK CITY RECAP
In July of 2019 Sole Classics opened a temporary pop-up in SOHO, Manhattan for the release of the Vans x Sole Classics Funk Pack with special guests.
DUBLIN, OHIO RECAP
In July of 2019 Sole Classics | Dublin hosted a special release for the Sole Classics x Vans Funk Pack.
SK8-HI LX 'FUNK'
Funk is the edgy label placed on arguably the most unique sound in the history of music. It spawned from underground music culture, it evolved into an unprecedented combination of live and digital sounds, and has influenced every aspect of music that came after it. The Vault by Vans Sk8-Hi LX is made up of various high quality leathers including a full grain upper with suede and patent leather signature Vans Sidestripes. There is also a set of alternate laces, a removable jacket with special eyelets, as well as a corduroy interior and a leather star on the heal. Clean. Funky.
PROPOSAL CONCEPT
CLASSIC SLIP-ON LX 'PEACE'
"We Come in Peace." The underlining vibe that resounds throughout nearly all of the music from both the Funk and Soul genres is that of Peace. Funk wasn't raised through violence, Soul wasn't bred by hate and both tell stories that ultimately made us feel inner tranquility. The Vault by Vans Classic Slip-On LX features a full satin upper with a red reflective collar and corduroy interior. What makes this shoe unique is its original artwork made up of reflective threading on the vamp of both shoes, with both the left and right shoes wearing different designs. Lastly, there is abstract artwork printed on the midsole.
PROPOSAL CONCEPT
CHUKKA LX 'SOUL'
Soul music cannot be compartmentalized the same way as most other music genres. In reality, the sound of many identities has been transformed over time by legendary talent to make us feel every emotional ounce of love, pain, and everything in between. The Vault by Vans Chukka LX consists of a canvas upper, a suede toe-box and a corduroy interior. For the first time ever, the iconic Vans Sidestripe is used on the Chukka silhouette; made up of individual pieces of leather sewn together on top of the canvas panel. Lastly, there are two sets of alternate laces and original artwork stitched to the tongue.
PROPOSAL CONCEPT
WOMEN'S CLASSIC
SLIP-ON PLATFORM 'LOVE'
Although the stories left behind in history are usually told through the pen of man; the footprints of iconic women were not only present in the industry during this time, but the proved to be instrumental in the progression of the sound of both Soul and Funk. Without the women, there is no Funk or Soul. This Women's Vans Classic Slip-On Platform consists of a "disco-ball" iridescent upper, a semi-translucent platform midsole, corduroy sock liner collar, and various print graphic elements.
PROPOSAL CONCEPT
OH, AND WE MADE AN ACTUAL ALBUM + MERCH
Yes, you read that correctly. We made a real vinyl album to celebrate the occasion, fitting for the home state of Funk music. We also collaborated with 10Deep on a limited merchandise capsule. You can still download 'There's a Gnat in the Funkin' Honey' on Apple Music and other platforms like Spotify, or by clicking the image to the right.
Be sure to check out our music video below.
