Launched in 1978, the Vans Sk8-Hi, originally known as "Style 38", was a groundbreaking innovation in the world of skateboarding footwear. Designed to provide additional ankle support for skateboarders, the Sk8-Hi was the second model to bear Vans' distinctive "jazz stripe" on the sides. Crafted with a mix of canvas and suede, the shoe featured reinforced toecaps to withstand repeated wear and Vans' signature waffle rubber outsoles for superior grip. Over the years, the Sk8-Hi has seen numerous collaborations with major brands and artists including Supreme, WTAPS, and Sandy Liang, solidifying its iconic status in the realms of fashion, music, and street culture.
About the Brand
Vans, was founded in 1966 by brothers Paul and James Van Doren along with partner Gordon Lee in Anaheim, California. The brand gained popularity through its durable canvas footwear, notably the #44 deck shoe, now known as the Authentic, characterized by its durable canvas upper and rubber waffle-patterned outsole designed for improved grip. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Vans expanded its reputation through endorsements with influential skateboarders such as Tony Alva and Steve Caballero, solidifying its position within skateboarding culture. The company has continually fostered its appeal through collaborations with prominent brands and designers including Supreme, Dime, and Comme des Garçons, reinforcing its relevance beyond skateboarding and into broader fashion spheres.
