The 60s were an iconic decade for many things, from fashion to music. And when it comes to shoes, there’s no denying that Vans were a huge trend. With its simple yet stylish design, Vans shoes had a huge impact on the shoe industry in the 60s. So what was Vans shoes like in the 60s? Let’s take a look at the history of Vans shoes, from the brand’s humble beginnings to the cult-like following they still enjoy today.
Vans Shoes in the 1960s
Vans shoes were created in 1966 by Paul Van Doren, Jim Van Doren, Gordy Lee and Serge D’Elia. The shoes were aimed at skateboarders, surfers and BMX riders, but quickly became a fashion staple in the 1960s. The shoes were known for their comfort, variety of styles, and iconic waffle-sole design.
Design
The design of Vans shoes in the 1960s was heavily influenced by skateboarding, surfing and BMX culture. They featured the classic “waffle” sole design that was originally intended to provide superior grip and traction on skateboards and other surfaces. The shoes were offered in a variety of styles and colors, such as the slip-on, high-top, and low-top designs.
Popularity
Vans quickly became popular among skateboarders, surfers and BMX riders in the 1960s. The shoes were seen as a fashion statement for those who were involved in the counterculture movement. The shoes were also popular with young people who wanted to show off their individual style and take part in the culture of rebellion.
Legacy
Vans shoes continue to be popular today and are still seen as a fashion staple. The iconic design of the shoes has been kept largely the same since their inception, a testament to their timelessness and quality. Vans shoes remain an iconic symbol of the 1960s counterculture movement and are still a favorite among skateboarders, surfers, and BMX riders.
Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions
What Was Vans Shoes Like in the 60s?
Answer 1: In the 1960s, Vans shoes were known for their iconic low-top lace-up silhouette. This style was developed by the Van Doren Rubber Company, the original creators of the Vans brand. The shoes featured a simple canvas upper with a vulcanized rubber sole. The iconic Vans checkerboard pattern was also introduced in the 1960s, and quickly became a popular addition to the classic design.
What Materials Were Used for Vans Shoes in the 60s?
Answer 2: The shoes were made from canvas and vulcanized rubber, which was a special type of rubber that was heated and molded, resulting in a strong and durable material. This material was then used to create the shoe’s upper, sole, and checkerboard pattern.
Where Were Vans Shoes Popular in the 60s?
Answer 3: Vans shoes were popular in skate and surf culture throughout the United States in the 1960s. The brand was particularly popular with the skateboarders and surfers of the SoCal culture. The shoes rapidly gained popularity due to their combination of comfort and style.
What Colors Were Available for Vans Shoes in the 60s?
Answer 4: The shoes were available in a variety of colors, including black, white, navy, red, yellow, green, and more. The checkerboard pattern was also available in multiple colors, including the classic black and white design.
Was the Checkerboard Pattern Popular in the 60s?
Answer 5: Yes, the checkerboard pattern quickly became a popular addition to the classic Vans design in the 1960s. The pattern was seen as a symbol of the skate and surf culture of the SoCal lifestyle.
What Was the Price of Vans Shoes in the 60s?
Answer 6: The price of Vans shoes in the 1960s was quite reasonable, with a pair costing around $5. This price made the shoes accessible to a wide range of people, allowing them to take part in the SoCal culture without breaking the bank.
The 60s was a time of great experimentation and evolution for Vans shoes. Their commitment to classic silhouettes and practicality, combined with their bold colorways and distinct designs, made them a favorite among the skateboard and surf communities. Today, Vans are still revered as a timeless fashion staple, but they owe their initial success to the experimentation and innovation of the 60s. Vans shoes of the 60s were and continue to be a great example of how fashion can be a true reflection of culture.
