Vans- shoe of choice

If you are a young man interested in skateboarding, BMX and the street culture having Vans is something that really put you on a map. Those classical shoes are so popular since 1966 when the two brothers (Paul and James Van Doren) and their three partners opened up their first store in sunny California.

They were the first who introduced both manufacturing and selling shoes on their own. Their most recognizable models were those with rugged make-up and sticky sole. Thanks to this phenomenal hit, the company begins to grow and also produce wool lined canvas and rubber mukluks. Above all, the best-selling were Vans #95 designed by Tony Alva (an American skateboarder) and Stacy Peralta (an American surfer). They were destined to skateboarders thanks to their non slip bottom that allow the skaters to grip better.

In 1966 there was made another hit model  #44.The brand evolves and by the end of 1970’s Vans had around 70 stores in California. Driven to success, Vans decided to produce shoes for a number of other sports such as: motor cross or wakeboarding. As it turns out, it wasn’t the best fit for the owners because it totally drained the company’s resources. Finally, the company went bankrupt in 1983.

However, three years later, some others’ companies gave Vans a helping hand and bought the rights with the promise to get the business going. Right now, Vans is prospering well and to prove it in 2000 and 2001 Forbes recognized the company as one of “America’s Best Small Companies”.  Following the success and being eager to keep the business afloat, in 2001 Vans (on its www addressee) launched the possibility to design your own shoes by using many different colors and patterns.
Also, the company collaborates with very talented designers namely: Luella Bartley or Rebecca Tylor.

Here a few pics!