Brothers Paul and Jim Van Doren, alongside partners Gordon Lee and Serge Delia, founded Vans in 1966. The SK8-HI, 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 SK8-HI as a shoe in skate culture. Over the years, Vans has also collaborated with various artists, musicians, and SK8-HIs, such as Takashi Murakami, Anderson .Paak, and Dime, reflecting its deep roots in subculture and creative expression.
