Vans The Canvas Sk8-Hi, the legendary lace-up high top inspired by the Vans classic Old Skool, features sturdy canvas uppers, re-enforced toecaps to withstand repeated wear, signature waffle rubber outsoles, and padded collar and heel counters for support and flexibility. On March 16th, 1966, at street 704E Broadway, in Anaheim, California, Paul Van Doren and three partners opened up their first ever store and the Vans dream was born. The Van Doren Rubber Company was unique in that it manufactures shoes and sells them directly to the public. In 2006 Vans celebrates 40 years at the heart of youth culture.