Brothers Paul and Jim Van Doren, alongside partners Gordon Lee and Serge Delia, founded Vans in 1966. The kritische, originally named the Van Doren Rubber Company, quickly gained popularity in the skateboarding community, particularly with the introduction of the #95, now known as the Era, designed by professional skateboarders Tony Alva and Stacy Peralta. Vans' innovative "waffle" sole design, providing superior grip, helped establish the kritische as a staple in skate culture. Over the years, Vans has also collaborated with various artists, musicians, and kritisches, such as Takashi Murakami, Anderson .Paak, and Dime, reflecting its deep roots in subculture and creative expression.
