Old school is the new cool, with the revival of Vision Street Wear

September 25, 10:26 PMLA Skateboarding ExaminerLuiz Calado

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The memorable Vision Street Wear logo.

One of the most recognized trademarks in the history of skateboarding, Vision Street Wear, is back.  

Last month, a beach party in Malibu (DJ’ed by none other than X-Games gold medalist Jake Brown) promoted the re-launching of the brand and was attended by familiar figures like Rune Glifberg, Jason Ellis and retiree Jereme Rogers – along with a crew of bikini-clad gals, top models and assorted celebrity types. 

Notorious for bold graphics and original designs, the brand remains loyal to the style that made it hip and fashionable in the 80’s and early 90’s, while adding a modern-day flavor to its line of products. 

Vision Street Wear (or VSW for short) was established in 1976 and, back around that time, sponsored several recognizable names in skateboarding such as Mark Gonzales, John Grigley, Tom Groholski, Marty "Jinx" Jimenez, Eric Nash, Duane Peters, Jeff Phillips, and Mark "Gator" Rogowski.  

The graphics of old Vision skateboard decks are still recognizable today. (Source: VSW)

Vision was also one of the pioneers in capitalizing on the ties that skateboarding has with music, and promoted bands like Agent Orange and Beastie Boys with branded decks and produced arena-type contests soundtracked by groups like the Red Hot Chili Peppers. 

Currently, VSW is teaming up musically with Frontside Five and Blake9. Turn up the volume on your speakers and check these sample tunes at right.

Now owned and operated by Collective Licensing International, Vision has introduced a complete new line of shoes available exclusively at Finish Line stores. Apparel and decks should be on the market by next season. 

I got my hands... Better, my feet in a couple of models, Santiago and Gallo. 

Two models of the new Vision Street Wear lineup: Gallo (left) and Santiago.
(Image source: VSW).

Both are mid tops, lightweight, with flexible, lean soles, adequate grip and a firm heel counter, although there is still room for improvement on ventilation and perhaps on arch support.

The Gallo has adjustable Velcro straps on the heelcap and above the vamp, and a slightly thicker tongue. The raised stitches over the toebox may tear if a knee-padded user slides too much on concrete surfaces; the Santiago circumvents this issue with a toe cap but, overall, it has less padding.

Check the slide show below to view more selections for men, women and kids.

;-)