I don’t know what kind of dinner party conversations you’re privy too, but if you hang with the kind of crowd we do, this handy link could help. It’s basically a lifetime of sneaker culture compressed into a punchy, easily digestible cheat sheet. After reading it, I will now be able to drop the cute factoid that the Reebok Classic was originally released in kangaroo leather because of a mis-order. This accident resulted in one of the most popular Reebok release of all time. Not among kangaroos though. Anyway, educate yourself. There will be a test.

[With thanks to theshoebuff.com]

Stories of Sole from Vans Originals

For more than 40 years, Vans has helped to define laid back California style as a key influence in action sports, music, art and street culture. Vans: Off the Wall tells the story of the community of action sports legends, musicians, artists and trendsetters that inspired it all – as well as the iconic shoes threading it all together.

Check it out vans.com/vansbook

Thanks to Vans, we have 5 copies of the book to give away – email your name and address and “what makes you original” to adam@hypedc.com for your chance to win.