Skateboarding classics like the Vans Authentic and the Vans Era as well as loads of streetwear can be found in the Vans Online Shop at skatedeluxe. Because when it comes to skate shoes, you can’t ignore Vans. The sneakers from the Van Doren brothers have always been legendary and are considered the ultimate in the skating scene. The current cult label with a shoe factory in southern California - like so many big brands – started small.
Vans “Off the Wall” – Since '66
In March 1966, Paul Van Doren together with his brother James, their business partner Serge D'Elia, and long-time friend Gordon Lee, opened the "The Van Doren Rubber Company" in Anaheim, California. The Vans Authentic was the brand's first model. Style # 44 belongs to one of the three original cuts, the design of which has hardly changed to this day. On the first day of production, the canvas shoe had a grand total of 12 sales. Which, for that time, was an incredible success. Thanks to the vulcanised outer sole and the versatile colour combinations, Vans Authentic is an absolute all-arounder.
The successor model, and thus, the first skate shoe from haus Van Doren, the Vans Era was introduced to the market. Designed by Dogtown legends Tony Alva and Stacy Peralta, the Era became an overnight cult classic. With the first skate-specific features, such as the famous waffle sole and the padded collar, the # 95 made its name for itself and defined an entirely new era in the history of skateboarding.
With the Era, Vans strengthened its position in the skate world, yet company founder Paul van Doren still lacked the certain logo statement for his shoes. At that time, the Swoosh and the three stripes from Nike and adidas respectively had were firmly burned into the memory of shoe-lovers everywhere. Van Doren had to act quickly and adorned the latest model, the Vans Old Skool, with the unmistakable "Jazz Stripe".
Shortly thereafter, the first Hi-Top variation, better-known today as the Vans Sk8-Hi. The combination of a vulcanized sole with a high-top makes this shoe an indispensable companion for all skaters who want more stability and support from their sneakers. 1977 marked not only the birth of the punk in the UK but also the Vans Slip-On. As the last of the Vans Classics, this slip-on is among the most prominent shoes of the brand, despite the fact that it is not actually a skate shoe. Whether in the distinguished checkerboard style, or simply in classic black, the Vans Slip-On is a highlight when it comes to casual sneakers.
Vans has also got you covered for winter. The water-resistant and lined Vans shoes from the MTE Series not only protect against rain and cold, they’ll keep your toes warm in ice cold temperatures.
Vans Streetwear - Classic Style. Modern Comfort.
In addition to the classic skate shoes in every conceivable colourway and pattern, Vans has broken into the world of streetwear in recent years. From the Vans logo T-shirt and warm hoodie to the winter jacket; with Vans, you’ll be well prepared for (almost) every situation. They even offer backpacks, beanies and accessories in the same high quality you can always expect from Vans.
What began with the artistic influences of the Z-Boys has now become an integral part of Vans’ philosophy: the collaborations. In the last several years, countless artists, musicians and, above all, skaters have been able to leave their names and designs on the historical sneakers. Meanwhile, Vans has even released pop culture collections such as Disney and Star Wars.
Think outside the checkered box – Vans
You have to admit, the guys and girls of Vans are masters of combining subcultures. With the Vans Warped Tour, which has been firmly established since 1995, Vans has established another monument. The successful worldwide festival combines (pop) punk music, extreme sports and the support of non-profit organizations such as Peta2, Feed Our Children NOW and Music Saves Lives like nothing else in the skating and music scenes.
But not only is supporting music dear to Vans, so is protecting and preserving the environment. As a skate label with roots in surfing and snowboarding, Vans knows the importance of nature for sports first-hand. For exactly this reason, the brand has launched the Vans Sole program. It’s founded on the pillars of environmental protection (Green Sole Operations), recycling and sustainability (Green Sole Product) and education (Street Brine).
With the opening of House of Vans in 2014, the traditional brand also breaks into the art scene and thus provides a creative collective in the London Underground skate, BMX, music and art scenes. Workshops, concerts and skate sessions are regularly held here in Waterloo Stations’ unique atmosphere. in the Vans brand shop at skatedeluxe, you’ll find the perfect shoes for your next round at the House of Vans skatepark.
