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At first glance, we wouldn't be able to say why we were so drawn to Vans: Off the Wall, Stories of Sole from Vans Originals (Doug Palladini). We have nothing in common with the famous skaters, surfers, bikers, boarders and punks that populate this written history of the rebel shoe of choice (unless you consider biking up a one-way city street rebellious).

What makes this book a must-have is that at its heart, Stories of Sole is a chronicle of one of the most iconic looks in street fashion. Look down at any city sidewalk and there'll be a million shoes and a million designers inspired by Vans' customized canvas top, vulcanized rubber midsole and flat waffle sole.

The kids that wear - and collect - Vans turned the humble sneaker into a definitive expression of cool. Our favourite: Check out the chapter on Frenchman Dimitri Coste and his 100-plus pairs of Vans.

While we may not know the difference between a Caballerial and a fakie 360 ollie, Stories of Sole lets us appreciate the kicks behind the tricks.

About $27.50 at bookstores and www.amazon.ca.

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