Brief History:
Vans started in Anaheim, CA in 1966
1966 Paul Van Doren and three partners opened the first store at 704 E. Broadway in Anaheim, Calif. on March 16. The Van Doren Rubber Company is unique in that it manufactures shoes and sells them directly to the public.
Early '70s - Skateboarders who like Vans´ rugged make-up and sticky sole are seen sporting Vans all over Southern California.
1976 - The Vans #95, now known as the Era, with a padded collar and
different color combinations, is designed by Tony Alva and Stacy Peralta and becomes the shoe of choice for a generation of skateboarders.
1979 - The Vans #44 is introduced and with the help of skateboarders and BMX riders, Vans Slip-ons become the rage in Southern California. By the end of the '70s, Vans has 70 stores in California and sells through dealers both nationally and internationally
1997 - Vans begins creating the world´s leading action sports series with the purchase of the Triple Crown of Surfing; by 2000 the Vans Triple Crown Series will include events in skateboarding, BMX, surfing, wakeboarding, snowboarding, and freestyle motocross
Fun Facts/Trivia:
1982 - Vans Slip-ons gain international attention and appeal when they are worn by Sean Penn in the film Fast Times at Ridgemont High.
2000 - Vans finances the production of Dogtown and Z-Boys, Stacy Peralta´s look at the beginnings of skateboarding and the personalities that evolved the sport. The film takes the Audience Award and Best Director Award at the Sundance Film Festival. The film is narrated by Sean Penn.
The Vans Warped Tour is the longest running concert tour in America
Features and benefits of Vans:
Vans heritage as the original surf and skate brand ingrains our company and products into Southern California youth lifestyle. We are skaters, surfers and snowboarders and have almost 40 years experience making footwear, apparel and tech products that make participating in life more fun.
Be sure to check out the Vans "Off the Wall Hour" Tuesdays and Thursdays on Fox Sports Net at 4 pm to experience the full spectrum of action sports.