Recently, good business has been determined not only by the product but the customer service and what they contribute to the community. As a business major, I enjoy learning about great companies who are not just money makers, but also care about their community. They don't focus on a small picture, but they have a great branding by spreading positive beliefs right from their founding. One company that has been close to my heart, from their products to their culture, is Vans shoes. Vans hasn't just dedicated themselves to clothing and accessories, but to a lifestyle and a mission.

There are many reasons that Vans is a great company that we should get behind. Here are some of those reasons:

1. Comfort and Style

Vans have always been dedicated to creating footwear that gives skaters comfort and flexibility. After many years, they have rolled out their Ultra Cush soles, for an even lighter and comfortable shoe. You don't have to be an athlete to wear Vans either, there are so many styles that work for anyone.

2. Culture

Vans was founded as The Van Doren Rubber Company in Anaheim, California. It's a family company that promotes family-friendly events and lifestyles. Vans make up California culture and the idea of good vibes and fun.

3. The US Open & Vans Warped Tour

Vans has partnerships to host both events each year. The Vans US Open is a free family event that promotes an active lifestyle with skating, surf, and BMX. These events sponsored by Vans are interactive and helps the sports get more exposure. The Vans Warped Tour is a summer concert festival series that travels all over North America. Both events celebrate the arts as well.

4. Skate, Surf, Snow, BMX

Vans has a team for each of these action sports. They also design styles and sponsor events for each sport. They are not just about skate, but about anything that keeps you active.

5. Art Showcasing

It's not all about the shoes. It's about the way users express themselves. By having art contests, bringing artists to events, and allowing customers to customize their own shoes, Vans gives us a creative outlet. They promote art and individuality.

6. Positive Vibe Warriors

Positive Vibe Warriors is a foundation whose goal is to connect youth to the ocean and educate them about the environment. Vans launched a campaign with Positive Vibe Warriors. The campaign included clothing, shoes, and accessories. They also support "STOKE-A-RAMA", a surfing event to get kids out to the water.

7. Sustainability

Vans invested into solar panels for their headquarters in California. They constantly improve their supply chain, manufacturing, and locations to be environmentally-friendly and reduce their carbon footprint.

8. Surf Rider

Surfrider is dedicated to cleaning up oceans and beaches. Vans's sponsorship promotes environmental awareness that we should all be having sooner rather than later. They promote events and donate for giveaways to attract more donors and volunteers.

9. A.skate Foundation

A.skate is dedicated to giving skating lessons to kids with autism. Vans sells reusable bags in stores for the price of a donation.

10. Vans Sole

Vans Sole is a sustainability program for their employees and is dedicated to promoting positive workplace ethics. Their employees participate in clothing drives and in green teams that work towards reducing their carbon footprint.