Vans' sneakers have been wearable works of art for a while but now it's more than official. Chinese artist Liu Bolin's Premium Authentic 44 “Knot” sneaker is an artisanal take on the treasured skate sneaker that’s inspired by the 2026 Lunar New Year. 

The shoe’s red leather upper features graffiti-style lettering and symbols throughout that give the luxed-up skate shoe some edge while honoring the Chinese New Year.

And in honor of the new year, the sneaker wears text that reads "Ma Shang Ji Hao," an engraving that translates to "Get Well Soon" and is intended to reflect a favorable attitude for the new year. 

Along the heel and eyestay, the “Knot” Vans sneaker wears rakish black zig-zag thread detailing that adds to the overall abstract vibe of the sneaker.

Perhaps the most darling aspect of the sneakers, though, is the laces or lack thereof. In lieu of traditional laces, the Authentic 44 “Knot” is fastened by frog-style closures.

This type of closure, known as pankou, is a popular button style for traditional Chinese Tang jackets which adds another layer of homage to the storied sneaker. 

On the whole, Vans has been dishing out some truly spectacular Lunar New Year gems, including a pony hair loafer that's literally part horse.

As far as Vans’ sneakers are concerned, 2026 is off to quite a dapper start.

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