Vans first used the black-and-white checkerboard pattern on friction tape (the rubber around the bottom of the Vans shoe). Vans used to run a contest in their stores where they had strips of paper cut out to the same size as an actual piece of friction tape rubber. The checkerboard fabric was inspired by those drawing contests. Today's pin up girl knows all about it. She's a fan. Check 'r out!
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.