The Vans shoe brand was founded by brothers Paul Van Doren, Jim Van Doren, and Gordon Lee in Anaheim, California. The company originally started out as the Van Doren Rubber Company and produced custom rubber-soled shoes for surfers and skateboarders. In 1966, the company opened its first retail store in Anaheim and began to sell its shoes directly to the public.
The Vans brand quickly became popular among skateboarders and surfers due to the durability and comfort of its shoes. In the 1970s, Vans shoes were adopted by the punk rock scene and became a symbol of counterculture. Today, Vans shoes are still popular among skateboarders, surfers, and punks, as well as mainstream consumers.