**Vans**
- Year of Origin: 1966
- Stock Symbol: Part of Deckers Outdoor Corporation (DECK)
Vans sneakers have a rich history that began in 1966, when brothers Paul and Jim Van Doren, along with partners Gordon Lee and Serge D'Elia, opened the first Vans store in Anaheim, California. They initially manufactured shoes right on the premises, which allowed them to sell custom shoes made to order—a unique selling point that appealed to local skaters.
In the 1970s, Vans became the go-to sneaker for skateboarders, thanks to the introduction of the #95 model, known as the "Authentic." Its sticky rubber soles and simple canvas design made it ideal for skateboarding. The brand's popularity soared with the release of the "Era" and "Old Skool" models, the latter being notable for its iconic side stripe and association with both skate and punk culture.
Vans continued to innovate through the decades, introducing signature styles for various athletes and artists, and expanding into surf culture, lifestyle fashion, and music. The brand is now synonymous with youth culture and creativity, often seen gracing the feet of skateboarders, surfers, and trendsetters alike.
Today, Vans is a global phenomenon, known not only for its shoes but also for its strong ties to art and music, sponsoring events like the Vans Warped Tour and hosting art exhibitions.
- Year of Origin: 1966
- Stock Symbol: Part of Deckers Outdoor Corporation (DECK)
Vans sneakers have a rich history that began in 1966, when brothers Paul and Jim Van Doren, along with partners Gordon Lee and Serge D'Elia, opened the first Vans store in Anaheim, California. They initially manufactured shoes right on the premises, which allowed them to sell custom shoes made to order—a unique selling point that appealed to local skaters.
In the 1970s, Vans became the go-to sneaker for skateboarders, thanks to the introduction of the #95 model, known as the "Authentic." Its sticky rubber soles and simple canvas design made it ideal for skateboarding. The brand's popularity soared with the release of the "Era" and "Old Skool" models, the latter being notable for its iconic side stripe and association with both skate and punk culture.
Vans continued to innovate through the decades, introducing signature styles for various athletes and artists, and expanding into surf culture, lifestyle fashion, and music. The brand is now synonymous with youth culture and creativity, often seen gracing the feet of skateboarders, surfers, and trendsetters alike.
Today, Vans is a global phenomenon, known not only for its shoes but also for its strong ties to art and music, sponsoring events like the Vans Warped Tour and hosting art exhibitions.
