Skateboard Gear

Vans TNT Advanced Prototype Launch at House of Vans London

Tony Trujillo, jump ramps, Modelo and Tommy from The Stupids - a better than average Friday night!

Last Friday night (July 6th) saw one of the most enjoyable shoe release events that I can remember. Foregoing the po-faced approach in favour of a good old traditional night of carnage, the Vans TNT Advanced Prototype Launch at House of Vans London saw huge crowds descend into the tunnels for free Modela, burritos and a raucous (to put it mildly) pop up event on a specially constructed jump ramp set up unveiled on the night.
In attendance were Tony Trujillo himself, Cephas and Donovan of The Bunt Live, an elite cadre of London’s finest, Tom from The Stupids spinning classic 80’s punk and hardcore and a fair few European mates along for the ride.

As we all know, product drives things like this, and that’s fine, but it’s great to see Vans continue their long tradition of erring on the side of launches that actually involve proper skateboarding and fun. Anyhow, you can see the new Vans TNT Advanced Prototype shoes below, along with some information on the shoe itself and the related apparel range.
Once you’ve clocked that, scroll through for a little recap of the hectic sessions from Friday.

Released in three colourways (black/white, pink/white/black and all white – with checkerboard detailing) and available in a unisex size break to accommodate both women and kids (sizes running from 3.5 – 13) this is TNT’s 7th signature Vans skate shoe.
Incorporating echoes of previous models, the latest iteration comes correct with Vans’ UltraCush Lite 3D footbeds, Duracap-reinforced uppers, and a brand new waffle tread pattern designed to extend durability and grip over time, and maximize boardfeel.

The TNT Advanced Prototype’s new functional waffle tread pattern evolves the classic waffle sole to provide more ground contact for an immediate, broken-in feel. The tread concentrates on common pressure points in the forefoot and heel to further extend the durability and grip, whilst the rubber reinforcements across the quarter panel and vamp, address sensitive wear and tear areas.
The TNT Advanced Prototype is complemented by a matching apparel assortment, featuring a lightweight anorak jacket, a long sleeve tee with battle axe graphics, and a classic beanie.
The full TNT Advanced Prototype range will be available from July 14th.

Photo: Alex Irvine

And now, onto the carnage. As previously stated, Tony Trujillo was in town and on deck for the House of Vans event, sitting down with Canada’s finest purveyors of pisstake The Bunt Live to do a little interview before the jam began. Amongst other things revealed during this, was the fact that it was TNT who filmed John Cardiel’s legendary San Francisco gold rail 5050, (the second-to-last trick in his still unbelievable Transworld Sight Unseen section from 2001). You’ll be able to hear the full interview in an upcoming season of The Bunt – if you’re not already switched onto to that – check out previous episodes of The Bunt Live here.

Photo: Alex Irvine

Following immediately was the unveiling of the hitherto secret jump ramp set up built especially for the Vans TNT Advanced Prototype Launch. Keeping things strictly 80’s and with influences drawn from Savannah Slamma and Venice Beach – this thing was killer.
Instant scenes ensued with the likes of Ben Broyd, Jake Snelling, Aref Koushesh (AKA Bobby), Backflip Tim, Saul Crumlish and many others displaying instant keeness, whilst Tommy Stupid span classic hardcore tunes to keep the hype sky-high.

As soon as I saw that Tim ‘Backflip Tim’ Prescott was in the house – this was always going to happen. Spurred on by TNT and chants of ‘It’s coming home’ – the circus landed. Photo: Alex Irvine

Ironic or not – everyone loves a Benihana. If you say otherwise, you’re a liar.
Ben Broyd is the nicest lunatic I know. Photo: Alex Irvine

You want hype? Dial ‘BMT’. Lizo Yako is the boss. Photo: Alex Irvine

Master of proceedings and also, master of wallride 270’s out – Rob Smith gets the job done. Photo: Alex Irvine

“You’re going the wrong way mate.” Photo: Alex Irvine

Stockwell in the house. Photo: Alex Irvine

Italy’s Aref Koushesh (AKA ‘Bobby’) went in. Proper Japan air.
Photo: Alex Irvine

Slightly drunk Brit and drunker Canadian discuss nonsense. “Standard”.
Photo: Alex Irvine

Rich West meets his fan-base. Photo: Alex Irvine

Holland’s Woody Hoogendijk was there for Flatspot. The Euro DJ voice is strong!
Photo: Alex Irvine

“Scenes!” Blast Skates rule. Photo: Alex Irvine

Ben Broyd heeding the call for John Thomas tuck-knees. Photo: Alex Irvine

Aref blasting into the rafters (if there were rafters). Photo: Alex Irvine

More 80’s references with this Ray Simmons inspired one footer to wallride. Yes, Broyd landed it. Photo Alex Irvine

T-shirt says it all. Photo: Alex Irvine

Photo: Alex Irvine

Huge thanks and praise to Rob Smith, Tom Moatti, Horsey, Kat and all at Vans and The House of Vans for one of the best events in a long, long time. Keep your eyes peeled for the TNT Advanced Prototypes dropping in UK skate stores from July 14th.

In the meantime – here’s some options to get yourself kitted up like TNT