Vans Releases Sensory-Friendly Autism Awareness Collection

Vans released a sensory-friendly apparel and shoe line for kids on Wednesday as part of its Autism Awareness Collection. The collection is available both online and in Vans retail locations.

The collection has design features that focus on the senses of touch, sign and sound. The color palette was designed to be calming and features primarily blue and white. Shoes and apparel are available in unisex, male, and female sizes. The collection includes 12 shoes, ranging sizes 2.0 toddler to 15 men, and four t-shirts, ranging from sizes 2T to x-large. The price range for the collection ranges from $26 to $75.

Introducing the Autism Awareness Collection, an ultra-comfortable footwear pack with sensory-inclusive elements and a calming color palette. Learn more at https://t.co/sbez4xintn pic.twitter.com/mBGXBz8m5v

— Vans (@VANS_66) March 11, 2020

In a press release, Vans addressed the steps it took to make sure the collection was sensory-sensitive.

To be more inclusive to common sensory sensitivities, Vans worked with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to create designs utilizing Vans ComfyCush technology for all day comfort and ease of wear for adults, kids and toddlers.

A portion of the proceeds from Vans’ collection will be given to A.skate Foundation. A.skate Foundation provides “one on one skate lessons for persons with autism in an environment that is appropriate to their sensory needs.”  It gives lessons and supplies equipment for participants to use during skate sessions free of charge. Vans said that it will donate a minimum of $100,000 to A.skate Foundation.

Other brands have also released sensory-friendly collections for kids with disabilities. Target’s popular kids’ collection Cat & Jack released a line with adaptive clothing for children in 2017. U.K. based retailer Marks & Spencer also created a clothing line for kids with disabilities in 2016.

Vans said its collection is part of the brand’s mission of championing individuality.