Canvas upper, Rubber outsole with signature waffle tread, Cotton drill lining, Low top classic design Originally made in 1966, the Vans Authentic is a legendary lace up low top sneaker. They were also known to be called Vans #44 Deck Shoe. As skateboarding began to blow up in and around 1974 skaters were spotted all over southern California sporting the rugged Vans Style #44. It began to take on a cult like following and quickly became the shoe of choice amongst those in the know. Now the legend are currently available in a nice array of colors and designs.