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Vans Skater Luk Chun Yin Brings “Handsome Is Not A Crime” To His First Signature Slip-On Pro Colorway
Growing up in a city where skateboarding is unpopular is tough, and with limited facilities to foster skateboarding talent, even tougher. Born and raised in Hong Kong, Vans skateboarder Luk Chun Yin (Chun Chai) grew up exploring his neighbourhood, honing his skateboarding skills on the streets of Sha Tin. “If the city doesn’t have a skatepark, then the city is my skatepark,” said Chun Chai. After years of skateboarding in Hong Kong and Asia, he earned the recognition of his peers through his performance at regional contests, proving himself to be one of the best skaters in the region.
The slogan – “HANDSOME IS NOT A CRIME” originated as a light hearted inside joke of sorts amongst Chun and his skate homies, where he addresses those who receive recognition based on appearances but not expertise. As an athlete, Chun Chai has been continually pushing his skills on the board through routine practice, failure and success are just a part of the game. He firmly believes that perseverance is the key to success and he hopes to inspire people to follow their passion and see where it takes them.
The Classic Slip-On Pro was a no brainer for Chun Chai as the starting point for his first signature colourway, it’s his everyday go to skate-shoe, that is easy to match with any outfit. The colour choice and graphic elements were inspired by Hong Kong’s nightlife, illustrating the vibrant yet laid-back party vibe in the city – which Chun Chai enjoys a lot.
The slogan – “HANDSOME IS NOT A CRIME” is imprinted on the foxing stripe in English on the shoe and the Cantonese translated characters “靚仔無罪” are captured behind the see-through crystal waffle sole in the font style commonly seen on Hong Kong’s notorious cultural icons the Green/Red minibuses, adding his local touch to the design.
To celebrate the release of this limited silhouette, Vans is hosting a livestream event featuring an exclusive pre-screening of Chun Chai’s skate video part, live interviews and giveaways, plus a live music performance by Tai Kok Tsui’s badboys N.Y.P.D. 南洋派對 – Tune in to @chunchai on Instagram or Vans Facebook on April 23rd at 12pm GMT / 8pm HKT.
The Vans Luk Chun Yin Slip-On Pro colorway is available now to purchase online at vans.com.my.