Vans, originally known as the Van Doren Rubber Company, has cemented its legacy in American culture as a staple in skateboarding, casual wear, and beyond. Established in Anaheim, California, in 1966 by Paul Van Doren, his brother James, and business partner Gordon C. Lee, Vans started with a simple yet revolutionary concept: manufacturing shoes and selling them directly to the public. This hands-on approach allowed the brand to cultivate a loyal customer base from the outset, with their iconic deck shoes, now known as the “Authentic,” setting the stage for their future success.
Throughout the decades, Vans has been more than just a footwear company. By aligning itself with various action sports such as surfing, snowboarding, BMX, and motocross, Vans has embraced and supported the lifestyles of its customers. The brand’s sponsorship of the Warped Tour from 1996 to 2019 highlights its deep connection with the music and youth culture. The Warped Tour, known for its eclectic mix of punk rock and extreme sports, provided Vans with a platform to reach millions, cementing its place in the hearts of skateboarders and music enthusiasts alike.
Vans’ history is rich with innovation and adaptability. Despite facing financial difficulties and fierce competition in the 1980s, the company managed to rebound, expand internationally, and even go public in 1991. Their designs, often inspired by the creativity of their wearers, such as the iconic checkerboard pattern, reflect the brand’s commitment to individuality and self-expression. As Vans celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2016 and introduced sustainable initiatives like the VR3 product line in 2022, it became clear that the brand’s evolution is far from over. From the skateparks to the silver screen, and even to viral internet fame, Vans continues to influence and define the intersection of fashion, sports, and culture.
Iconic 80s Vans TV Commercial
How to tell if Vans is vintage from the logo
Vans, a brand synonymous with skate culture and casual style, has seen its logo evolve over the years. Identifying the era of a Vans product through its logo can provide insight into its vintage status. Here is a guide to help you determine if your Vans items are vintage based on the logo.
1966 to 2016 Vans logo
- The classic Vans logo features the word “Vans” with a stylized “V” that extends over the remaining letters.
- The logo is typically black or white, although variations in color can be found on different products.
- This logo was used for a significant period, making it less specific for dating exact years but still a key identifier of vintage Vans products.
1966 to 2016 Vans logo
2016 to now Vans logo
- The updated Vans logo introduced in 2016 retains the classic “Vans” lettering with the elongated “V” but adds the tagline “OFF THE WALL” underneath.
- The logo often appears in red or black, with the tagline in black text.
- This newer logo helps to distinguish more recent Vans products from the vintage ones.
2016 to now Vans logo
How to tell if Vans is vintage from the tags
The Vans brand has evolved significantly over the decades, and their tags provide a glimpse into their rich history. The tags not only reflect changes in the brand’s design aesthetics but also indicate the era in which the garments were produced. Here’s how to identify vintage Vans tags from different decades.
Having trouble identifying vintage tags or labels? Upload a picture on our vintage tag identification page, and we’ll assist you!
1990s vintage Vans tags
- Features bold, block lettering of the Vans logo.
- Tags often include “Since 1966” as a nod to the brand’s founding year.
- Typically rectangular in shape with simple, straightforward designs.
- Some tags include a size indicator, usually positioned at the bottom or side of the main logo.
1990s Vans tags
2000s vintage Vans tags
- Introduction of more modern and varied color schemes.
- Logo remains prominent, often accompanied by additional text such as “Designed in U.S.A.”
- Tags might feature a checkerboard pattern, paying homage to Vans’ skateboarding roots.
- Size information is typically included directly on the main tag or on a separate smaller tag.
2000s Vans tags
2010s vintage Vans tags
- Continued modernization with varied fonts and layouts.
- Tags might include collaboration branding, such as with the “Baker” tag seen in the images.
- Use of different materials and print methods, including screen-printed tags.
- Size and fit information often included, sometimes with detailed garment information like fabric content and fit style.
2010s Vans tags
