Vans is an American footwear and apparel brand founded in 1966 in Anaheim, California, best known for skate shoes and its close ties to skateboarding, surf, BMX, and snowboard culture. The brand is now part of VF Corporation, which also owns The North Face, Timberland, and Dickies among other labels. Beyond shoes, Vans sells apparel, backpacks, and accessories, and it's a common presence at action-sports events it sponsors.