For Holiday 09, Vans Vault takes the Zapato del Barco to a whole new level of comfort and snazziness.  First off, Vault version, Del Barco LX is offered in high and low top.  Detailing is top flight with a nubuck upper, contrast stitching on the toebox and what appears to be a perforated insole lining.  You can’t see it from the pics provided, but both cut of the sneaker even has a fresh tongue tag.  I simply can not wait to try these on.

Image Source: Marcus Troy

Not too long ago, the Vans Vault camp released the Calfskin leather pack.  Comprised of a pair of Chukka LX, Old Skool LX and Classic Slip-On LX, they prove once again Vans is always on top of their casual lifestyle sneakers game.  What threw me off recently is the above pair of Authentic LX in  burgundy calfskin.  Along with the burgundy upper, the black vulcan sole with white piping really adds a touch of class.  Did anyone see these coming?  Is it part of another upcoming Calfskin leather pack?  I wasn’t able to gather much info, but as of now, Allike carries them with a small run of sizes.

Image Source: Allike

Heres another pack coming from the Vans Vault collection for Winter 2009 (possibly Fall).  The Vans Vault Wool lineup consists of a pair of Chukka, Sk8-Hi, Old Skool and Slip On’s.  Although wool and white contrast stitching are the common denominators for this pack, each shoe has its own individual textures.  Take for example the lining on the Old Skool, the image may be exceptionally small, but I think a houndstooth pattern can be spotted.  The Sk8-Hi and Slip On appear to have a pin striped or checkered lining.  As for the Chukka boots, the wool is treated with a flannel texture to give the sneaker personality.  This is another nice pack coming from Vans Vault.  Hopefully, we’ll get to see these hit shelves before the holidays.

Image Source: NiceKicks.com

With dressier round laces and premium materials, I’m wondering why there is no “LX” attached to these Supercorsas.  Vans Vault will release two new colorways for the road cycling inspired Supercorsas to include brown and white this summer.  Included with the sneakers are a biker’s cap and an additional set of laces.  Currently, Flauge has both colorways online, but I’d hold off until my local Vans Vault account carries them.

Image Source: KicksOnFire.com via Flauge

White and beige is a no brainer summer colorway combo.  And May is the perfect month for the Vans Vault “Lvevl” pack to drop.  I first fell in love with the half cabs back in late February when I snuck a peek at Oki-Ni.  But without knowledge of the pack’s name and what shoes made the cut put a halt to an earlier posting.  In addition to the Half Cab, the pack also includes a pair of Sk8-Hi and Era like 46.  Aside from the obvious “lux” style features, the outsole receives a texturized horizontal stripe pattern as well.  Look for these at your local Vans Vault account in May or you can pre-order them at Oki-ni right now.  On a different note, I kinda wish Vans added a pair of Chukka to the lineup.

Image Source: Sneaker News

Vans Vault really knows how to save the best for last.  The below Chukka is the latest edition to their “Eco” pack.  Beginning with the packaging to the actual sneaker, this is Vans’ equivalent to Nike Considered.  The “A” in the Vans logo is replaced with a tree indicating that materials consists of post-consumer recycled content.  Unlike the Sk8 Hi and Era in the pack, the Chukka receives a two tone tan and black upper.  The “LX” in these Chukka boots are defined by the luxurious lining.  If you absolutely can’t wait for your local Vault account to get these, Ripe has them in a small run of sizes.

Image Source: Sneaker News

The pea coat is by far one of the best investments for surviving old man winter.  The silhouette is timeless and of course it does a damn good job of keeping one warm.  Everyone that keeps up with my entries knows I’ve fell head over heels for Vans not too long ago.  My love for Nike Air is still strong, but I’ve been diversifying the collection a bit.  Recently, the Vans Vault line have revealed a Chukka to be released in Winter 2009 with the pea coat as inspiration.  Three colorways to include black, navy and grey with an all wool upper and black sole will be available.  The laces appear to be slightly waxed and the big button furthers the pea coat theme.  My only question is when will Palace5ive and Elite receive them?

Image Source: Sneaker News

2009 is around the corner and Vans Vault has us already sweating and waiting for the ‘Schaffers’ Pack.  I have no idea when they come out.  But from viewing the material used, it may be safe to assume a winter release.  In no particular order, I am in need of the Eras and Chukkas.  Maybe even the Slip Ons for once.

Image Source: Off The Wall Site

I am in love with the mature and clean look these Chukkas have going on.  Recently, there have been a lot of appealing Vans Syndicate and Vault releases.  However, with details such as the plaid lining, premium laces and of course the luxury nubuck leather, these set the standard for a Fall motifed sneaker.  Be on the look out for these at your local Vans Vault dealer.  But if you can’t wait, Caliroots has them in stock now.

Meanwhile, make the leap for more photos.

Image Source: Sneaker News

Vans is pushing out heavy hitters for the remaining two quarters of 08.  The plaid pack consists of a pair of Authentic, Sk8-hi, Zapato del Barco and slip on.  Being that plaid is a good look for the Fall season, this should be a fan favorite.  By default, I’ve got my eyes on the Sk8 Hi.  However, I’m definitely appreciating the Zapato del Barco in this pack.  Look for these to come out at your Vans Vault account come Fall 2008.

Image Source: Sole Redemption

Here is more love for the almighty Vans Vault Half Cabs.  Three colorways are available and I was thinking of which pair I would lean more towards.  I’m really sold on the contrasting tongue and eyelets on both the beige and horizon grey pair.  At the same time, I’m also fond of the all black upper ones as well.  Anyway, these are available at DQM.  So give them a call to get prices and size options.  Otherwise, keep an eye out for them at your local Vans Vault account.  Vans is making Van broke in 2008.

Make the jump for in depth photos.

Image Source: mashKULTURE via Dave’s Quality Meat

On the norm, I don’t leap at the opportunity to cop Vans or Nikes with ostrich or croc pattern.  They just don’t speak to me.  However, he placement of croc on these Half Cabs are worthy of mention.  I believe it was the toebox that had me sold.  Xlarge didn’t mention a date as to when these will drop, but I’m certain Palace5ive will carry them for DC metroland fans of Vans.

Make the leap for more detailed photos of both colorways.

Image Source: Xlarge