Key Takeaways
- SZA's new Vans LX Authentic 44 Kickdown sneakers are available now on Complex for $110, launching October 22 as part of her debut collection as Vans' artistic director.
- The sneakers feature distressed white canvas, watercolor fish illustrations by artist Sage Adams, and a collapsible heel that allows them to be worn like slip-ons.
- The collapsible heel was inspired by SZA's longtime habit of stepping on the backs of her shoes, while the fish artwork reflects her interest in marine life and background studying marine biology.
SZA is putting her own spin on one of Vans' most recognizable sneakers. The singer has teamed up with the footwear brand to release the VANSZA Authentic Kickdown “SZA Fish Print”, a new take on the classic Authentic featuring colorful fish illustrations, distressed canvas, and a collapsible heel that lets you wear the shoes like slip-ons.
Priced at $110, the sneakers are part of VANSZA Drop 1, SZA's first full footwear and apparel collection since being named Vans' first artistic director in August 2025. The collection launched today, October 22, and you can buy the Authentic Kickdown “Fish” on Complex now.
The sneaker's white canvas upper features watercolor fish artwork by artist Sage Adams, along with frayed edges and distressed detailing that give it a worn-in appearance. But the most interesting feature is the heel, which can be folded down to turn the traditional lace-up silhouette into an easy slip-on.
Shop Vans on Complex
VANSZA Authentic Kickdown 'SZA Fish Print'$110
Vans LX Authentic 44 Combat Black - Green$90
Vans LX Authentic 44 Beaded - Champagne$75
Vans LX Authentic 44 Combat Field - Black$90
Vans LX Authentic 44 Combat - Brown$90
Vans LX Old Skool 36 Paisley - Woven Green$80
Vans LX Classic Slip On 98 - Cardigan Black$110
Vans LX Old Skool 36 - Harris Tweed Navy/Multi$140
Vans LX Authentic 44 Gemstones - Black$85
Vans LX Classic Slip On 98 - Cardigan Brown$110
Vans LX Loafer 53 - Harris Tweed Multi$120
Vans LX Authentic 44 Hairy Suede - Black$85
The design was inspired by SZA's longtime habit of stepping on the backs of her sneakers, something she says her mother has been telling her to stop doing for years. Rather than change her ways, SZA worked with Vans to make shoes that accommodate the habit.
The Authentic Kickdown is one of two sneakers in the first VANSZA release, alongside the $115 Knu Skool Mule, which reimagines another classic Vans silhouette as a backless slip-on. The collection also includes apparel inspired by SZA's love of nature, outdoor activities, and vintage workwear.
A second VANSZA drop is scheduled for April 8, 2027, with additional footwear and apparel designs.
