Highsnobiety Podcasts

From the first time four wheels hugged the walls of an emptied out pool, to becoming a central part of pop culture and fashion, skateboarding has had a lifelong friend in Vans. The small deck shoe company out of Anaheim, Calif. was the earliest of adopters for the burgeoning sport as it established a legacy by placing its kicks on the feet of the Z-Boys, a group of California teens that would become the true godfathers of skating. Like the sport itself, Vans’ popularity has waxed and waned over the past 50 years. But today it’s both the quintessential skate shoe and a staple fit for anyone’s wardrobe. Both qualities are only possible because of Vans’ embracement of its past, and as long as that lasts, it’s hard to imagine Vans ever approaching the difficult times it has in the past. On this episode of Why It’s Cool, we examine how Vans has made shoes so excellent, versatile, and affordable that you can find them on the feet of Frank Ocean in the White House or any kid looking for there next skate spot across