Vans

Christmas has come early. For a shoe lover these are perfect for me. Someone has chosen well, I love the colour red and these trainers are great with jeans or skirts. 

Since opening their first store in 1966, the Californian trainer company Vans has been named one of America’s best small companies by Forbes in 2001. Over 40 years ago, brothers Paul and James Van Doren started a unique company. Their unique idea was to manufacture their own shoes and sell them directly to the public. 

In the 70s, they became popular by skateboarders, due to the non-slip bottom being more conducive for a better grip.  After creating shoes for skateboarders, Vans made sneakers for other sports including wakeboarding and surfing. Today, the company continues to support skateboarding, with sponsorship of team riders including Dustin Dollin and Johnny Layton.

In 1988, Vans original owners sold the company to an investment banking firm, after being bankrupt from the company’s resources which forced them to file bankruptcy in 1983. They are now owned by VF Corporation.

As well as being comfortable and easy to wear, Vans have also been tested as being very durable. These “used to be” black Authentic Vans have been worn everyday for a year and still going strong. They may be covered in mud and look more grey or brown, but they are still comfy and wearable.