It’s a sad day in skateboarding and footwear as it has emerged that VANS co-founder James Van Doren died of cancer on the morning of October 12th, 2011 at the age of 72. Doren, who ran the company from 1976 through to 1984, founded Vans (originally called the Van Doren Rubber Company) with his brother Paul in the mid 60s.

From making custom Authentics for the surfers of California back then, to sponsoring some of the world’s best extreme sports athletes and events now; James Van Doren’s legacy will live on throughout the footwear industry.

RIP JAMES VAN DOREN