DNA DEEP-dive: VANS x ATCQ

VANS x ATCQ

Collection & launch party

The collection

The much-anticipated Vans x A Tribe Called Quest collection has landed! This limited edition collection is available to only a select few retailers worldwide; TOWER is proud to be one of them.

The multi-sneaker range features three classic Vans silhouettes (the Old Skool, Era & the Authentic) revamped with splashes of bright Afrocentric colours common to the legendary American hip‑hop group. The pairs are emblazoned with lyrics and imagery that pay homage to ATCQ’s vast catalogue of songs and album covers – the Era boasts an impressive range of album artwork spanning 1990–2016. The group’s iconic red and green tiger stripe pattern (as seen on multiple album covers) adorns the side panels on the Old Skool, elevating the all-black silhouette and complementing Vans’ iconic Sidestripe. The Old Skool is the clear favourite here at TOWER. We’re feeling the clashing print and the detail in the eyelets and embroidered logo on the tongue.

Across the collection, little details are not to be missed: the laces and metal eyelets feature song lyrics (as seen on the Old Skool), collaborative branding decorates the insoles, and ATCQ’s iconic dancing stick figures surround the signature Vans logo. Even the taping on the inside of the footwear is carefully considered. These considered touches make each pair feel like a piece of memorabilia as much as footwear, marrying nostalgia with thoughtful craftsmanship.

Launch party

To celebrate the launch on Friday 6^th April, we teamed up with Vans to throw an event at our Brick Lane store. More than 100 guests partied to an ATCQ‑themed set (your damn right we played Can I Kick It) and munched on doughnuts and beef brisket inspired by the band's North American roots. Vans took over our store window in tribute to the collection, the three silhouettes taking pride of place surrounded by a bold, branded light installation.

The release of this collection cements ATCQ’s importance in current culture, all the more impressive when you consider their career has spanned 30+ years. It’s a fitting tribute — two years on from the passing of Phife Dawg. The collaboration respectfully translates their visual and lyrical legacy into a wearable collection. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer, these sneakers translate ATCQ's legacy into everyday wear — striking the balance between nostalgia and contemporary street style.

Availability

The range is available to cop online now & at the TOWER Brick Lane store. It’s a limited release — don’t sleep on it.

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