We all know Vans is the Original. Here since '66. But how much do you really know about what arguably is the most succesful brand in the history of action sports? Filling in the gaps is writer, historian and Vans expert, Doug Palladini (full disclosure--Doug is Vans VP of Marketing), who just completed and released a new book chronicling the history of the iconic brand, "Vans: Off the Wall"


In the words of the Vans PR folk:

"Vans: Off the Wall by Doug Palladini tells the story of the community of action sports legends, musicians, artists and trendsetters that helped to define laid back California style as we know it. This personal, insider account features oral histories from Vans originals including Tony Alva, Steve Caballero, John Cardiel, Shaun Palmer and Joel Tudor and stunning images from CR Stecyk, R. Grant Brittain, Art Brewer, Trevor Graves and many more renowned photographers. This first run, 2009 edition 9" by 9 3/4" hardcover bound book is 208 pages and includes 365 full color illustrations."



Vans legends - Cab and Hosoi


Vans skater - Omar Hassan


Throughout my years working on the Vans Triple Crown Series and two summers spent on the Vans Warped Tour to all the events and happenings Vans seems to be involved with, this book, in my opion, is a MUST HAVE in your bookshelf or on your coffee table.

From my first pair of tourquise Vans in 6th grade to the day, 12 years later that Steve Van Doren hand-delivered to me a pair of classic black Old Skools (still got 'em), Vans has never lost sight of its roots and the people that made it what it was and still is, despite being owned by VF Corp, the largest clothing corporation in the world.

Vans: Off the Wall
Buy it Here Now