Vans, the skate shoe brand we know and love, started in 1966. It wasn't until 1977 that Vans #36, the Old Skool, debuts with the now famous Vans Sidestripe. The Old Skool is Vans' first skate shoe that incorporated leather panels for increased durability. What started as a random doodle by Paul Van Doren was originally referred to as the "jazz stripe" and has become the unmistakable hallmark of the Vans brand.
Today, the Vans brand evolution continues. From its foundation as an original skateboarding company, to its emergence as a leading action sports brand, to its rise to become the world’s largest youth culture brand.