After months of anticipation the #VANSFIRSTLAYER Japan short film is available to watch following a successful launch in the Vans store, Lyon, yesterday evening.

The ‘First Layer’ project began back in 2015 showcasing the talent Vans Snow has across Europe.

Each year snowboarders are constantly searching for the best snow and venturing to Japan seemed like the perfect choice. The plane was loaded with a unique squad of Vans European riders, mixing eclectic riding styles and approaches heading on a journey through deep powder and endless urban riding opportunities. Riders, Nils Arvidsson, Valérian Ducourtil, Markus Keller and DBK went on a crazy powder mission to the northern island of Hokkaido. Meanwhile, a crew consisting of Sami Luhtanen, Will Smith, Cees Wille and Benny Urban explored the main island and looked to discover the exciting street spots on offer… street & powder is what it’s all about.

“With Vans ‘First Layer Japan’ we wanted to focus on showcasing how good our Vans European team is, not only in deep powder but also in the more urban environments. Japan played a great host in allowing us to do this and each rider delivered across the team. We hope everyone enjoys the short film as much as we enjoyed making it,” says Bruno Rivoire, Vans Snow Team Manager EMEA.

Accompanying the short film, Matt Georges produced a limited edition deluxe photo booklet and newspaper version, available in selected Vans stores across Europe.