Vans

California Freedom and the Origins of Skateboarding

Vans was born in 1966 in Anaheim, California. Initially, the company operated as a small custom shoe factory, but quickly won the hearts of local skaters. The reason? A thick rubber sole that guaranteed excellent grip and durability – key qualities in extreme sports. Over time, the comfort and distinctive line of Vans models became synonymous with freedom and independence, which dovetailed perfectly with the spirit of California’s burgeoning skateboarding scene.

Icon – Sidestripe and Chessboard

The most recognizable element in Vans designs is the so-called Sidestripe – a simple, wavy side-line motif that adorns iconic models such as the Old Skool and Sk8-Hi. The other key symbol is the distinctive checkerboard, present on versions of the Slip-On and many other variations of the brand’s footwear and apparel. Combined with the “Off The Wall” logo – a reference to the life of skateboarders riding steep pools – they create an energetic brand image that has remained consistently popular on streets around the world for decades.

Unconventional Fashion and Culture Collaborations.

Vans has grown out of skateboarding, but is constantly expanding its horizons. This is evidenced by a number of collaborations that have delighted streetwear and pop culture fans:

• Supreme – Limited collections in which classic Vans silhouettes get a new, bolder color scheme and distinctive patterns.
• NASA – A futuristic line of footwear and apparel inspired by spaceflight, combining skate looseness with space mission themes.
• Disney and Marvel – Fairy tale and comic book accents that interpret Vans models in a new way, delighting lovers of iconic characters.
• Fear of God – Combining street minimalism with a classic Vans vibe, resulting in designs in muted colors but with eye-catching details.

Each of these collaborations brings freshness and shows that Vans can creatively combine different aesthetics without losing its skate DNA.

The Timeless Charm of Urban Style

Although many years have passed since the brand’s founding, Vans is constantly associated with youthful energy and a genuine passion for skateboarding. Today, these shoes and clothes have become an integral part of street fashion, appreciated by both teenagers and adults who grew up in the skate climate. Openness to new trends, commitment to simple forms and distinctive quality of materials have made Vans not only stand the test of time, but also become an icon, uniting successive generations in a passion for freedom expressed through style.