PR: Vans, Inc. Purchases Majority Stake in U.K. Distributor
(November 21, 1996)

ORANGE, Calif. November 21, 1996--Vans, Inc. (Nasdaq:VANS) today announced that it has acquired 51% of Global Accessories Limited, Vans' exclusive distributor for the United Kingdom, in a stock-for-stock transaction valued at approximately $2.7 million. Based in London, Global Accessories has been the exclusive distributor of Vans products since June, 1994. Vans will acquire the remaining 49% of Global Accessories stock over a five year period.

Gary Schoenfeld, President and Chief Operating Officer, stated, "Global has been, and continues to be, one of Vans' leading distributors. The Company more than doubled its sales this past fiscal year, and continues to show strong sales increases."

Mr. Schoenfeld added, "The international marketplace represents a very strong growth vehicle for Vans. As we focus on taking advantageof such opportunities, particularly with the introduction of our apparel line, we view this partnership with Global Accessories as an important initial step. We intend to pursue additional opportunitieswhere we can take a more active role in the development of the brand and capture a greater share of potential revenues and profits from the international arena."

Mr. Schoenfeld concluded, "We continue to be pleased with the strong consumer response to Vans products and the growth in all channels of our distribution, including double digit same store salesincreases in Company-owned retail stores. As we approach the Winter season, initial reaction to and sell-through of our snowboard boot line has also been very encouraging."

Vans, Inc. is a branded manufacturer, wholesaler and retailer of active-casual footwear, performance footwear for enthusiast sports, and snowboard boots. Products are sold through a network of independent and national retailers, international distributors for approximately 65 countries, and 84 Company-owned stores and factory outlets. The Company sources its footwear from third party foreign manufacturers and the Company's own 90,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Vista, California.