I know.  You’re probably wondering why the hell am I writing a review months after the release of this shoe, right?  I don’t really have a good answer to that, but I figured better late than never, plus these shoes are just way too awesome to go unnoticed.  Blends has created a nice little family of Vans “bones” sneakers, and this was their 3rd version, in a timeless “Chili Pepper” red and black colorway.  They were a big surprise to us collectors, as we were anticipating the all-white pair to be the follow up to the Old Skool Zip LX “bones”, which leaked a long time ago online.  Some weren’t too stoked about the switch up to the red/black colorway, but the shoe still commanded an overnight camp out, and quite honestly I think this is one of my favorite colors they’ve done.  It’s classic, and it’s timeless, and the soft high quality premium leather goes nicely with almost anything.  The skinny waxed flat laces give it a luxurious look, while the vulcanized white sole with black foxing stripe keep it OG.  The black zipper contrasts nicely on the red heel, and the bottom of the soles are red as well.  These feature the non-removable “skinny” footbeds so sizing down half or maybe even a full size may be necessary for most of you, and with most Sk8-Hi Zip’s, the shoe feels a little long because there is minimal padding on the ankle.  Choose wisely!  Enjoy a few detailed pics I took, and jump on these soon, while the prices are still decent, because when trends die, classics live on.  Great job Blends!

tons more pics after the jump Read More