Both brands are considered precursors to the original European BMX and streetwear scene and stand for authenticity, classic style, and long-lasting and comfortable apparel and footwear. Moreover Carhartt and Vans have been working for a long time side-by-side as sponsors and supporters of international BMX events and athletes. So this project comes more than natural. 
The concept behind the Carhartt X Vans collaboration is to combine the brands’ best elements to develop an unique new image. The most recent outcome of this is the Carhartt X Vans Authentic in a special limited edition, a shoe that perfectly conveys the ageless style of both veterans in the streetwear and BMX business. The Authentic _ combines a relaxed look with the original skateboarding spirit of the 60s and remains true to Vans’ classic design, which has not been altered since it was conceived in 1966. _‘Less is more’ was the catchphrase right from the start. The Carhartt x Vans Authentic carries all the classic features of this shoe, such as Vans’ signature waffle soles as well as the durable doublestitched seams and lightweight cushioning.
As a tribute to Carhartt’s trademark colour, it features a bright orange sole. Additionally, Carhartt’s designers brought their quality standards as well as their extensive experience for innovative designs to the drawing board. The result is a cool variation of the classic Authentic shoe in the legendary and extremely hard-wearing Carhartt ripstop fabric combined with classy suede leather. The Ripstop fabric is a woven, lightweight material that resists tearing and ripping with an easy to identify interlocking pattern. The Carhartt X Vans Authentic will be available in three original Carhartt colours – Black, Cypress and Wall – only at Carhartt- and Vans Stores europe-wide on January 14, 2011.
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.