Vans is truly the originator to which all skate shoe companies should pay homage. The brand has been on the pulse of skateboarding since long before there was such a thing as EXPN or 24 hour a day action sports channels. They hold a unique position in the industry, being known for equal parts retro-nostalgia and progressive shoe design. With some of the best skaters in the world flying the Vans flag, progression and evolution continues to be the heartbeat of the company. Vans are the skate shoe against which all others are measured. Long live the classics.