Vans turns 50

Vans inaugurates 2016 celebrating its 50-year history Off The Wall. For the occasion the brand has decided to pay homage to the Sk8-Hi, its iconic model as well as an evergreen. The legendary high-top lace Vans was the first high shoe designed by skaters for skaters in 1978, and since then its success has never stopped. If in the 70s Vans was synonymous with Urban Skate style, today - thanks to the continuous research and innovation - has become a real reference point for a wider audience.

Designers like Marc Jacobs, Opening Ceremony and more recently Gosha Rubchinskiy, have fallen under the spell of the Sk8-Hi, using it as a background for their collaborations with Vans, as well as Supreme and Stussy.

The Sk8-Hi has been adopted not only by the fashion world, but also from the world of art and music, that's why it now represents the most varied cultures and creative personalities of the past, present and future.

To celebrate this 50th anniversary, Vans has brought together 7 great characters to tell the unique story of the Sk8-Hi and the impact it has had on the way they express themselves. The pictures capture the deep connection between these personalities and the sneaker of the Californian brand, demonstrating the functionality and quality of the shoe itself.

#1 Steve Caballero, skateboarding legend, in the 80’s he participates to the historic Del Mar Skate Ranch marking the history of the Sk8-Hi. In 1999 he's nominated by Thrasher Magazine "Skater of the Century”.

#2 Syd tha Kyd, lead singer of neo-soul R&B group The Internet, he wears the Sk8-Hi both on stage and in everyday life, and declares Vans as his favorite fashion brands of all time.

#3 Lizzie Armanto, Vans skate team rider, she won most of the women's events in which she participated and the last 2015 she made her debut in the film-documentary of the Californian brand, Propeller.

#4 Henry Rollins, has captured the world's attention when he became the frontman of the legendary punk band Black Flag, and was also spokesman of the ‘80s excluded.

#5 Jay Howell, appreciated artist and animator, in his work is inspired by the culture of skateboarding.

#6 Natalie Westling, walked for the most important fashion houses in the world, she’s changing the perception of traditional femininity. She shows off the logo of Vans Off The Wall on her tatooed forearm, and the word Skate on the other.

#7Wade Goodall, professional surfer and athlete of the Vans team, embodies the creative style that inspired the Sk8-Hi.

To celebrate its 50th anniversary, starting from next March, Vans will present a series of initiatives, starting with the expansion of House of Vans - the cultural hub of the company - along with the launch of 50 different Sk8-Hi for SS16.