The Vans company started with brothers Paul & Jim Van Doren and their partners Gordon Lee & Serge Delia in California in 1966. The company stood out with its unique manufacturing process. On their first day, they sold 12 shoes made in the morning and were ready for pick-up in the afternoon of the very same day.
Skaters Best Friend.
Back in the 70s, skaters all over Southern California started rushing on Vans sneakers for their rugged makeup and sticky soles. Vans waffle soles were very popular with skaters for ensuring a good contact surface with their board. Today known as the Era, the Vans #95 became the shoe of choice for a generation of skateboarders.
Then, Van's “Off the Wall” logo made its debut with the famous Old Skool. It was the first skate shoe that incorporated leather panels for increased durability.
As more and more skaters and BMX riders were wearing Vans shoes, the Classic Slip-On model stood out and became the new hip in Southern California. Later, this silhouette has turned into an icon for generations.
With an estimation of 1,500 skateparks in the UK nowadays, and 60.000 regularly active skateboarders, plus about 300.000 casual ones, skateboarding has definitely become one of the country's most popular sports. Like any sport, skateboarding has its own rules and preferable trainers. There are now millions of reviews of Vans shoes from different skaters all over the internet.
A Wider Popularity.
In the early 80s, the Vans Classic Slip-Ons appeared in a popular comedy film worn by a movie star. This exposure pushed the shoe to international stardom. By the end of this decade, the first signature skate shoe was introduced: the Vans Steve Caballero.
After that, Vans conquered other sports footwear, especially snowboarding. Vans Snowboard Boots have been noticeably worn by many Olympic Games’ medal winners between the 90s and 2000s.
Later on, Vans shoes went beyond the sports sector and started collaborating with a wide range of Artists. In 2007, Vans released its most awaited special edition: the Vans x The Simpsons series. And, in 2013, they collaborated with rock music band Metallica, allowing each member to design his own Vans trainer.
Get Ready for your Next Adventure.
With outfit suiting every occasion, Vans clothing combines Off the Wall signature style with casual charm and premium fabrics. From shirts and hoodies, to jackets, each piece is designed to accompany you on your next adventure.
