Quick Read
- Vans launched a limited edition sneaker collection with Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters in December 2025.
- Nine designs feature characters and scenes from the film, including Huntr/X, Derpy, Saja Boys, and more.
- Styles include Classic Slip-On, Old Skool, Old Skool V, and Sk8-Hi, available in kid and adult sizes.
- Prices range from $45 to $80; sneakers are expected to sell out quickly due to high demand.
- KPop Demon Hunters is Netflix’s most watched movie, with over 325 million views.
Vans and KPop Demon Hunters: A Fusion of Style and Fandom
When Netflix’s animated film KPop Demon Hunters stormed onto the streaming scene in June 2025, no one could have predicted its meteoric rise. Within months, the movie had racked up more than 325 million views, earning the distinction of the most-watched film on the platform. Now, in a move that feels as inevitable as it is exciting, Vans—the iconic skate shoe brand—has partnered with the film for a limited edition sneaker collection. This isn’t just a merchandising tie-in; it’s a cultural event, bringing together the worlds of K-pop, animation, and streetwear in a way that’s both playful and stylish.
Inside the Collaboration: Designs That Tell a Story
The Vans x KPop Demon Hunters collection is more than a nod to fandom—it’s a celebration of the film’s vivid characters and memorable scenes. There are nine designs in total, spread across Vans’ most beloved silhouettes: Classic Slip-On, Old Skool, Old Skool V, and Sk8-Hi. Each style captures a different facet of the film’s universe. Take the Classic Slip-On emblazoned with Derpy, the blue tiger whose goofy grin has become a symbol for fans. Or the Old Skools immortalizing the film’s iconic ramen scene—an inside joke that only true devotees will catch at first glance.
Other shoes in the lineup incorporate the brand’s signature checkerboard pattern, cleverly fused with graphics of the film’s central K-pop girl group, Huntr/X, and their rivals, the Saja Boys—who, in the movie, are actually demons in disguise. The collection doesn’t shy away from creative risks; one pair of Old Skools is covered with the Saja Boys’ distinctive demon markings, a subtle but powerful nod to the film’s darker undertones. For those who love the supernatural sidekicks, there’s a Slip-On featuring both Derpy and Sussie—the six-eyed magpie—capturing the former’s silly energy and the latter’s mischievous flair.
A Collection for Every Fan: Sizes and Pricing
Vans has made the collection accessible to fans of all ages. Available in little kid, big kid, and adult sizes, the sneakers range in price from $45 to $80. This wide sizing ensures that both young fans discovering the film for the first time and longtime Vans collectors can find a pair that fits—not just their feet, but their sense of style. The collection officially hit stores ahead of its online launch, with availability on Vans’ website set for December 8. Given the overwhelming demand for previous KPop Demon Hunters merchandise—including dolls, dress-up sets, and even a soon-to-launch Squishmallows line—expect these sneakers to sell out quickly.
Why the Hype? The Film’s Worldwide Impact
What makes this collaboration so anticipated? The answer lies in the film’s explosive popularity and its unique blend of genres. KPop Demon Hunters follows Huntr/X, a K-pop trio who double as demon hunters tasked with saving humanity from soul-stealing underworld creatures. The movie’s blend of supernatural action, catchy musical sequences, and relatable characters has captivated audiences globally. Merchandising has followed suit, with themed toys, card games, and apparel popping up in stores—and frequently selling out.
For Vans, partnering with a franchise that’s both cutting-edge and universally appealing is a strategic move. The brand’s history of collaborations—from artists to pop culture icons—has always hinged on authenticity. Here, the partnership goes beyond surface-level graphics, digging into the quirks and emotional beats that made the film a hit. It’s a way for fans to carry a piece of the story with them, literally, wherever they go.
Collectors and Fans: The Race for Limited Editions
For collectors, the Vans x KPop Demon Hunters drop is more than just a shopping event—it’s a hunt in itself. Much like the coveted Mattel dolls from the franchise, these sneakers are expected to fly off shelves. The limited run and diverse designs create a sense of urgency and exclusivity. Social media buzz is already building, with fans sharing unboxing videos, outfit inspiration, and reviews of their favorite pairs. The collection’s appeal is amplified by its attention to detail: chibi-style illustrations, hidden references to the film’s lore, and the fusion of classic Vans motifs with new, animated energy.
This release also signals a shift in how pop culture and fashion intersect. Where collaborations once felt like simple branding exercises, they now serve as immersive experiences. Wearing these sneakers is a way to join a community, to participate in a global conversation about what’s cool, meaningful, and worth celebrating.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for KPop Demon Hunters Merch?
The Vans collaboration is part of a larger wave of merchandise riding the film’s popularity. Netflix, seeing the sustained interest, has greenlit new products, including a card game and plush toys set to launch in spring 2025. If history is any indication, these items will be hotly sought after—just as the sneakers are today. For fans, the challenge isn’t just finding the merchandise; it’s keeping up with the ever-expanding universe that KPop Demon Hunters continues to build.
As for Vans, this partnership sets a precedent for future collaborations with entertainment giants. The brand’s willingness to experiment and embrace pop culture, while maintaining its iconic style, has allowed it to remain relevant across generations.
Ultimately, the Vans x KPop Demon Hunters collection represents more than just a shoe release—it’s a testament to the power of storytelling in fashion. By translating beloved characters and moments into wearable art, Vans and Netflix have created a new way for fans to express their passion. The collection’s rapid sell-out is a clear sign: when pop culture and design collide authentically, the result is more than hype—it’s lasting impact.