Vans‘ History: Unveiling the Playful Origins

Summed up perfectly by their ‚Off The Wall‘ tagline, Vans has always been known for its playful antics and goofball attitude. However, did you know that, in their early days, they ventured into an unexpected territory? Yes, Vans once manufactured clown shoes, adding a touch of whimsy to their footwear repertoire.

The Birth of Vans‘ Clown Shoes

The journey into clown shoes began with Squeaky the Clown. As part of the Van Dorens‘ in-store promotions and grand openings, Squeaky was the entertainer responsible for crafting balloon animals and keeping kids enthralled. The word about Vans‘ jester sneakers quickly spread through the Californian clown scene, and soon, it wasn’t just Squeaky representing the brand.

Initially, Vans‘ generic Style #24 high tops in size 16 were embraced by professional clowns, but as the ’70s approached, clowns sought even more extravagant footwear. Inspired by an employee with a peculiar clown fetish, Vans introduced the Flapper—a low-top, super-wide shoe that became a sensation in the clown community.

The Flapper: Not Your Typical Vans Sneaker

Unlike the classic Made in USA waffles, the Flapper wasn’t vulcanized. Instead, it featured cold cure compounds, typically bonded to full-grain leather uppers, available in a myriad of color combinations. Picture this: a relatively small-scale operation crafting clown shoes with a flair that transcended the typical footwear landscape.

While Vans‘ deck shoes were retailing at a modest $10 during that era, the three-tone leather high-top clown shoes came with a hefty price tag of $60. It remained the most expensive piece of footwear produced by Vans during their handmade era. Interestingly, the clown shoes even incorporated a Style #44 (Authentic) deck shoe within—a shoelusion that added a unique touch to these whimsical creations.

The Lucrative Era of Clown Shoes

Vans continued making clown shoes for approximately 14 years, and the demand seemed insatiable. The company went above and beyond by offering high-top options and inviting clowns to bring their materials for custom shoes. Even Ronald McDonald himself knocked on Vans‘ door, seeking a pair of bespoke clown kicks. The venture proved to be lucrative, marking a unique chapter in Vans‘ history.

The Legacy and Mystery

The exact number of clown shoes produced by Vans during this period remains shrouded in mystery. It was undoubtedly a time when the brand’s creativity knew no bounds. Imagine clowns arriving at the Vans factory, possibly to the sound of The Beatles‘ „Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite,“ to pick up their custom-made footwear—a scene that adds a whimsical touch to Vans‘ already playful narrative.

In retrospect, how far would one go for a pair of original three-tone checkerboard Flappers? It’s a question that echoes the uniqueness and charm of Vans‘ clown shoe era, leaving us to ponder the legacy of these unconventional yet iconic creations.

The Evolution Beyond Clown Shoes

As time marched on, Vans evolved beyond the clown shoe era. The demand for these whimsical creations waned, and the focus shifted back to the classic sneakers that had initially made Vans a household name. Yet, the legacy of clown shoes continues to influence Vans‘ approach to creativity.

While Vans may no longer be actively producing clown shoes, the spirit of experimentation and unbridled creativity that fueled this unique chapter in their history remains a guiding force. The brand’s commitment to being ‚Off The Wall‘ extends beyond the literal clown shoes, embodying a mindset that embraces the unexpected and challenges the norm.

The Enduring Influence on Vans‘ Culture

The impact of the clown shoe era is not merely a footnote in Vans‘ history; it’s an enduring influence that has shaped the brand’s culture. The willingness to step into the unknown, to cater to niche markets like clowns, has become a symbol of Vans‘ commitment to individuality and expression.

Today, as Vans continues to innovate and push boundaries, the spirit of the clown shoe era lives on. It serves as a reminder that creativity is not confined by conventional norms and that sometimes, the most unexpected ventures can become iconic chapters in a brand’s narrative.

Conclusion

In the grand tapestry of Vans‘ history, the chapter on clown shoes stands out as a testament to the brand’s willingness to embrace the unexpected. From entertaining kids at store openings to becoming a staple in the clown community, Vans‘ journey with clown shoes is a fascinating tale that adds a colorful twist to their ‚Off The Wall‘ legacy. While the clown shoes may no longer be in production, their legacy lives on, reminding us that, at Vans, creativity knows no bounds.