It’s crazy to think about how important Vans is to BMX. The number of amazingly talented riders they keep riding with a pay check or hook up with fresh shoes and the crazy number of events they put on all over the world are just a small indicator. They’re a big support to keeping things rolling and it’s all due to the Van Doren’s. James Van Doren was the driving force behind the initial start of Vans and even though he hasn’t had involvement in the brand for a number of years, things like the waffle pattern that’s still a choice sole pattern for a number of riders and shoe models wouldn’t exist without him creating it. Sadly, after a number of years battling illness, he has passed away. You can find his full obituary over on the LA Times website. James Van Doren might have just wanted to make shoes his way, but along the way he had impacted the whole world. Rest In Peace, James!