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Vans Slip-On 98 Arrives With Nautical Knot Details

Vans continues its current momentum with a two-colorway iteration of the Slip-On 98, this time introducing oversized nautical-inspired knots across the upper. The collection taps into the brand's California surf heritage while maintaining the slip-on silhouette's minimalist foundation.

By Marcus Chen|April 27, 2026

Vans Slip-On 98 with oversized nautical knots in black hairy suede and white midsole

The Vans Slip-On 98 has become a reliable vehicle for the brand's design experimentation, and this April release proves that formula intact. Rather than chase trend cycles, Vans here leans into its foundational aesthetic—the knot motif feels authentically rooted in the brand's water sports lineage rather than forced onto the canvas.

Vans Slip-On 98 with oversized nautical knots in black hairy suede and white midsole - detail view 1

Two distinct executions frame the collection. The first arrives in black hairy suede with a crisp white midsole, a pairing that emphasizes the knot detailing through material contrast. The alternative opts for Daphne Blue canvas, a softer tonal approach that allows the embellished uppers to read as texture rather than statement. Both versions sit atop Vibram outsoles, the Swiss-engineered rubber that Vans has increasingly integrated into its performance-leaning offerings.

Vans Slip-On 98 with oversized nautical knots in black hairy suede and white midsole - detail view 2

Design Details

The knot construction dominates the visual narrative without overwhelming the silhouette. Oversized and deliberately tactile, the detailing suggests functionality—a nod to maritime tradition—even as it operates purely as aesthetic embellishment. The Slip-On 98's already-minimal upper provides an ideal canvas for this kind of dimensional work; there's nowhere for the design to hide.