Vans Shoes have long been standard gear for skateboarders and beach boys, but these days they can be found almost anywhere. Vans makes a rather astonishing range of shoes in dozens of styles for men, women, children and babies. And if you can't find what you want in stores, you can custom design a pair.

The shoe that made Vans a household name is the classic slip-on. These shoes are comfortable and durable, but their real appeal lies in the range of options available. There are 16 color combinations in their checkerboard pattern alone. Classic slip-ons also come in 18 solid colors of traditional canvas, three combinations in crepe and in black, charcoal or navy suede.

The real fun, however, is in the prints. There are usually around 30 prints available, making them great for collectors. The prints range from edgy to adorable, with skulls being the most common motif. (One print combines edgy and adorable in a pink bumblebee with a skull face!) There are polka dots and penguins, roses and flying hearts. There is also a striking Escher-effect print in monotone and colorful versions.

Old Skool is also a very popular design. This lace-up casual comes in three colors as a suede and canvas combo and in black simulated leather for vegans. Twenty-four limited edition colors are usually available. Both Old Skool and Classic Slip-ons can be customized, reflecting the company's roots in southern California surf and skate culture, when they would create shoes from fabrics customers brought to them.