Paul died this week at age 90. A high school drop-out, he started the shoe company in 1966 with his brother and some friends. Despite initial hardship, they hung in there and eventually prospered. The company now sells $2 billion dollars of shoes each year. Vans initially caught on with surfers and skateboarders; later they catapulted into the sky when Sean Penn wore them for his character, Spicoli, in the 1982 film, "Fast Times at Ridgemont High."
Paul published his memoir two weeks ago ("Authentic"). I haven't read it yet but plan to. Rest in peace, bro.
Aw, here's to Paul! I've owned a few pairs of Vans in my life. Who could forget Spicoli whacking his Van shoe on his head??
ReplyDeleteYup. Great character, fun movie. I just bought two more pairs today to replace old ones.
DeleteMy brother used to love Vans back in the day. Kind of makes me feel young.
ReplyDeleteNot being much of a sneaker girl, I never owned a pair of Vans, although I do remember Sean Penn's character in that movie! xxx
ReplyDeleteI love Vans though can't wear them much these days. Still, they're ultra classic.
ReplyDeleteVans are a classic- I actually can't believe I don't have a pair or two myself. Might have to change that!
ReplyDelete-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Go get some!
DeleteI have never owned Vans, but I'm familiar with them. They are a global brand.
ReplyDeleteMy Granddaughter is Devoted to VANS Shoes... I hadn't heard that their Founder Died, but at 90 he had a good run and his success story is certainly inspirational and deserving.
ReplyDeleteYup. The Vans website announced the news.
DeleteThough I've never owned a pair of Vans myself, I'm very familiar with the brand and have enjoyed watching their continued success + popularity over the years.
ReplyDeleteMuch like Doc Martens, Vans have had a strong impact on alt and counterculture fashion over the years and will, I'd venture to guess, continue to be thrive for many more generations to come.
Autumn Zenith 🧡 Witchcrafted Life
They're iconic at this point.
Deletehttps://me.me/i/nice-shoes-thanks-theyre-vans-nt-nice-vans-mr-j-4840897
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