Metal legends Metallica are teaming up with the iconic skate shoe company Vans for a new line of  sneakers that celebrate the band’s storied career.

“I’ve been wearing Vans on stage my whole freakin’ career (and way before that!),” said Metallica bassist Rob Trujillo. “Whether I’m walking the streets of Venice or San Francisco, Vans provides the funk in my stride!”

The collaboration kicks off with a limited edition Vans x Metallica 20th Anniversary Half Cab Pro. It’s part of of the year long celebration marking the 20th anniversary of the Half Cab, the most popular skate shoe of all time. The heavy-duty canvas and suede “black to the floor” Metallica edition features classic band lyrics embossed in the side, exclusive Vans x Metallica x Steve Caballero labeling and a unique clear rubber sole with ‘Kill ‘Em All’ album artwork showing through.

“To have Metallica, my all-time favorite metal band, collaborating with me on this 20th anniversary Half Cab shoe is an honor and a dream come true,” said Caballero. “I’m very stoked that Vans is working with such a legendary band and the Half Cab is just the beginning.”

In early 2013, the ‘Passion Projects’ will launch. James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett and Rob Trujillo each designed shoes for the collection. They created Vans shoes reflecting their own style, drawing from music, art and action sports. Members of the band’s fan club (Met Club) will have the first opportunity to buy the Vans x Metallica Passion Project shoes in January. They’ll go on sale to the general public in February.

The Metallica shoes won’t stop there. In March of 2013, to mark the 30th anniversary of Metallica’s debut album, ‘Kill ‘Em All’ theme shoes will be available. Emblazoned with artwork commemorating the anniversary, the shoes will be available in the Classic Slip-On and Sk8-Hi styles.

-loudwire.com