March 16, 1966, on 704E Broadway street in Anaheim, California, Paul Van Doren and three other partners opened their first ever store and the Vans dream was born. The Van Doren Rubber Company was unique in that it manufactured shoes for sale directly to the public. On that first morning, 12 customers purchased shoes which were made that day and ready for pick-up in the afternoon, the Vans #44 deck shoes, which are now known as the Authentic, were launched. These classic Vans combined canvas uppers with thick-bottomed vulcanised soles – a distinctive style that became the signature look of the company.
From this starting point over 40 years ago, Vans has risen to become a worldwide dominant force in the footwear and action sports markets, making it the brand of choice for the contemporary consumer seeking action sport and lifestyle footwear.
Introduced in 1966, the Vans legend began with the Authentic canvas deck shoe. These shoes were built to last, and they remain a classic today. The Authentic was the first lace-up skate shoe featuring the Vans signature waffle-bottom construction, original vulcanized sole, and canvas uppers. They originally retailed for $4.49 for men and $2.29 for women.
Oliver Peck's La Cripta Dos Mid
Oliver Peck is a legendary tattoo artist from Dallas, Texas, and owner of the world-famous Elm Street Tattoo. For as long as he can remember, art has been his driving passion. Skateboarding is Oliver's other great love, so it comes as no surprise that he is a self –proclaimed Vans fanatic and one of the family. His La Cripta Dos lines are also endorsed by skater Omar Hassan. We are proud to showcase some of his prolific work across a small collection of Vans.
