Vans’ latest release is making the autism community a little bit brighter with its new line of sensory-inclusive footwear.
The shoe brand announced on Wednesday it would be launching the Vans Autism Awareness Collection, a line of “ultra-comfortable” footwear designed specifically with Autism Spectrum Disorder, according to the company’s press release.
Vans partnered with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to create shoes with “sensory-inclusive elements,” including a calming color palette of blues and greens, along with design features that focus on the senses of touch, sight, and sound.
The ComfyCush Old Skool along with the ComfyCush Slip-On PT are available in all sizes, while the ComfyCush Slip-On PT with the “LOVE” print and hologram pattern, as well as the ComfyCush New Skool, will only be made in kid and toddler sizes.
An assortment of both short and long sleeve tees for kids in the same calming color palette will also be apart of the collection.
Vans’ new sneakers include a calming color palette of blues and greens, along with design features that focus on the senses of touch, sight, and sound.
“Since 1966, Vans has stood as a champion of individuality and self-expression,” the release states.
“The brand’s commitment continues with the release of sensory inclusive footwear designs as part of the Autism Awareness Collection.”
Parents who saw the news on Twitter were overwhelmed with appreciation for the intentional collection.
Theresa Nosek (Chase) wrote:
“Good on you @VANS_66 for finally including adults in autism-related products. Most companies that make sensory-friendly products only make them for kids, forgetting that autism doesn’t go away when you get older. I’d love a pair of shoes that doesn’t make me miserable <3”
While another shared:
“My son is now 21 with autism and CP. It’s been a 20 year struggle finding appropriate shoes. Finding affordable, velcro, sensory friendly, “cool” ADULT shoes is still a struggle.”