Vans Old Skool plaid sneakers. Forever favorite style from Vans, the Old Skool has a soft plaid upper with a lace closure. Complete with the classic waffle rubber sole. In 1966, the Van Doren Rubber Company opened for business in Anaheim, CA. Since then, Vans has evolved beyond surf and skate sensibilities to draw influence from a Southern California culture that is as diverse as it is progressive.