On March 16, 1966 Vans opened for business. Founder Paul Van Doren opened the doors to the first Vans store in Anaheim, California with a unique approach to manufacturing shoes, and selling them direct to the public. On that first morning, 12 customers walked through the door and purchased shoes for pick up that afternoon. The Vans #44 deck shoe (now known as the Authentic) was born.
In the 70s Vans became the rage with the help of the Era (designed by legendary skater Tony Alva) and the classic slip-on. In 1982 the classics slip on gained appeal after they were worn by Sean Penn in the film Fast Times at Ridgemont High.
In the years that have followed Vans have become involved with international skating, surfing and music events – the Vans Triple Crown series and the Vans Warped Tour.
In 2001 Vans financed the production of Dogtown and Z-Boys – Stacey Peralta’s look at the beginnings of skateboarding, narrated by Sean Penn. The film opened in 2002, winning the Audience Award and Best Director and the Sundance Film Festival.
2006 marked Vans 40th year anniversary – still going strong.
