Vans Releases “The Story of Vans” as a Tribute to 50 Years Off The Wall

Vans is proud to announce the global launch of The Story of Vans on this historic day, Vans’ 50^th anniversary. On March 16, 1966 Vans opened in Anaheim, Calif. as a small family-owned brand with big dreams. 50 years later, the Van Doren spirit lives on as one of the largest youth culture brands in the world, fostering a culture of creative expression through action sports, art, music and street culture. Vans commemorates its rich heritage with The Story of Vans series – a visual campaign that is truly the first of its kind – combining a mix of artistic methods to highlight iconic moments from the brand’s 50-year history. 

“It’s an exciting day for Vans as we embark on a new chapter in our history and celebrate 50 ‘Off The Wall’ years of actively supporting and enabling creative expression. We also look to the future as we introduce progressive platforms and product innovation that consumers around the world expect from Vans," said Kevin Bailey, Vans and VF Action Sports President. “The Story of Vans exemplifies the milestones that have made Vans the unique brand it is today and the inventive composition of the campaign allows us to bring those moments to life through an interactive experience at the House of Vans worldwide.”

Each story is narrated by a renowned individual and long-time Vans enthusiast. Professional skateboarder and historian of the sport, Jeff Grosso, voices the leading story while iconic skateboarding legend Tony Alva speaks to his own history with the brand in the action sports short. Artist and musician Ray Barbee, Chuck D of Public Enemy and fashion icon and actress Chloe Sevigny lend their vocals for the art, music and fashion shorts, respectively. Watch The Story of Vans and share your own Vans story using #since66. 

The Story of Vans campaign and Vans’ 50-year legacy will come to life at ten House of Vans locations across the globe starting tonight. From New York to London to Hong Kong, guests of the House of Vans will immerse themselves into The Story of Vans. The engaging environment of each House of Vans event will include D.I.Y workshops, shoe personalization, a retrospective look at Vans’ history and curated musical performances featuring Nas, Dinosaur Jr., Wu-Tang Clan, The Kills, Erykah Badu, Jamie xx, Dizzee Rascal, Yeasayer, Shlohmo and more. Vans skateboarding legends and professional athletes will also be in attendance for skate demos and signings.

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for the March 16th 50th Celebration

Vans is honored to celebrate 50 extraordinary years alongside the extended Vans family that have made the brand what it is today. To get in on the House of Vans action and to learn more about the experience here.