Vans West End: Where Skateboarding and Retail Collide
Vans has just flipped the script on what a store can be. Their newly revamped West End location on Oxford Street isn’t just a place to buy shoes—it’s a full-blown skateable experience. With design straight out of your skate dreams and a focus on community, this spot is making waves in the London skate scene.
A Ramp Runs Through It
First things first: there’s a 200-square-meter Roman travertine stone ramp running through the store. Yes, you read that right—a legit skateable ramp inside a shop. Designed with input from Vans team riders like Helena Long and Josh Young, it’s polished to perfection and ready for action. When it’s not hosting skate lessons or demos, it transforms into a retail display. It’s functional, it’s beautiful, and it’s straight-up genius.
More Than Just a Shop
The West End store was designed by Andrea Caputo Studio to be as dynamic as the skaters who roll through it. The modular setup means the space can morph from a skatepark to a concert venue to an art gallery. One day, kids might be learning how to drop in, and the next, the space could be packed for a live set. It’s all about celebrating skateboarding and the culture that surrounds it.
Exclusive Gear and Collabs
Here’s the kicker: the store is stocked with gear you won’t find anywhere else. From the premium OTW by Vans line to exclusive collaborations with brands like The Great Frog and Lovenskate, there’s something for every skate rat (or collector) out there.
Highlights include:
- Checkerboard speakers and powerbanks by Gomi, made from recycled e-bikes.
- Custom jewelry from The Great Frog featuring Vans’ waffle sole and Slip-On designs.
- Decks and posters designed by Lovenskate with contributions from artists like Chloe Bernard and Jon Horner.
And if you’re into rare drops, Vans West End has got you. They’re restocking some of the most hyped collections, like Vans x BAPE and Helena Long’s Safe Low.
The Heart of the Community
Vans West End is more than a store; it’s a new hub for skaters, artists, and musicians. Whether it’s hosting zine launches, art exhibitions, or skate clinics, the space is all about bringing people together. It’s a reminder that Vans isn’t just about products—it’s about the culture and creativity that skateboarding inspires.
So, if you’re rolling through London, hit up 214 Oxford Street. Even if you’re just there to cruise the ramp or soak in the vibe, it’s worth every second. Vans has truly gone Off The Wall—and we’re here for it.
