Are you on a quest to find the best skate shoes?
Then you’re in the right place. Because I have done the hard work for you and have reviewed dozens of products to bring you the best skate shoes.
In addition, I will introduce the following related topics.
- Product Details (Including advantages and disadvantages)
- Buyer’s Guide
- Benefits of Shoes Designed Specifically for Skateboarding
- The Main Differences Between Skate Shoes and Normal Shoes
- Skate Shoe Brands
- The Proper Way to Lace Skate Shoes
- …
I will also answer some common questions.
- Can Skate Shoes Be Used for Walking?
- Are the Shoes Bad for Your Feet?
- How Can I Make My Skate Shoes Last Longer?
- Is There a Special Way to Wear Skate Shoes?
- …
Without further ado, let’s begin!
Top 3 Picks
In a Hurry? Here are the winners.
Chief Editor
- 15 Best Free Online Virtual Summer Camps for Kids (2022) - July 6, 2021
- Expert Roundup: Advice to Mitigate the Effects of Coronavirus - March 22, 2021
- Best Gifts for Travelers - January 15, 2021
25
Hours Researching
90+
Products Evaluated
1800+
Reviews Considered
19
Researched Sources
Best Skate Shoes
Although nothing is stopping you from hopping on your skateboard in any old shoes, poor footwear may make it harder than it should be to perform tricks, enjoy your ride, or even just keep your balance.
There are plenty of shoes out there now that have been specifically designed for use with skateboards. Good skateboard shoes give you ample comfort, protection, and performance, making sure that you get the best possible experience.
Skateboard shoes have a few design features that set them apart from other types of footwear. The soles are designed to make contact with grip tape and provide exceptional footing. Most skate shoes are also padded specifically to absorb the extra shock that comes from hard landings.
Overall, finding the right skate shoe for you is a matter of understanding and meeting your needs in a lot of different areas: sole, uppers, grip, material, lacing, toe sizing, fit, impact protection, and more. The following picks will help you zero in on the perfect pair of shoes for skateboarding.
1. DC Men’s Court Graffik Skate Shoe | Most Comfortable Skate Shoes | Editor’s Choice & Best Seller
- Cup sole construction
- Vent holes for breathability
- Foam padded collar and tongue for comfort and support
DC Graffiks can deliver exceptional performance. That means extreme durability is another major feature in these shoes’ favor.
Graffiks are made entirely from leather. While this adds significantly to their weight and bulk, but you will never have any mobility or support issues, even while pulling off tricks. You also get a terrific level of comfort thanks to the extra padding in the collar and tongue. The vent holes along the sides make them plenty breathable.
These shoes are easy to find at brick and mortar stores like Zumiez, but a quick online price check shoes that you usually get the best prices at Amazon.
- Comfort and breathability
- Great for tricks
- Good grip
- Good Support
- Mesh tongue is lightweight
- Wide range of colors and sizes
- Online pricing is affordable
- Shoes must be broken in
- Sizing runs a half to a full size larger than average
2. Vans Old Skool, Unisex Adults’ Low-Top Trainers | Best Option for Women | Best for Performing Tricks
- Vans Old Skool Trainers
- Full Canvas Upper
- Gum Rubber Outsole Unit
- Die Cut EVA Mid Sole
- Moulded TPR Side Trims
Vans is a legendary name in skate shoes, and the Old Skool trainers fulfill the manufacturer’s reputation for comfort, simplicity, and durability. The Old Skool comes in a nearly endless array of different colors and variations, offering something to match virtually any taste for either skateboarding or casual wear. Vans regularly updates the color options to match the latest trends, too, and the always-affordable pricing makes the Old Skool a good fit with any sort of budget.
The outsole on these Vans is made from vulcanized rubber, a perfect material choice for the rigors of skateboarding. The molded-in waffle tread strikes a perfect balance between flexibility and grip. The thickness is also a good compromise: There’s enough material to last, but the soles give you a great feel for your board.
Anybody who’s worn Vans can tell you that the tough canvas uppers are pretty close to indestructible. Besides being tough and scuff-resistant, the material holds its color for a long time. The Old Skool design now features some very welcome padding around the collar, making the shoe a little more comfortable than it used to be. The canvas uppers deliver a very respectable amount of airflow, keeping your feet cool at all times.
Vans Old Skool trainers are some of the cheapest quality skateboarding shoes you can find. You can get ample protection and traction without emptying your bank account. The long-lasting materials extend these shoes’ value even further, giving you tons of wear both at the skate park and just as casual everyday shoes.
- Canvas upper
- Good collar and tongue padding
- Waffle-pattern sole for traction
- Flexible outsole
- The outsole may wear quickly
- Laces prone to ripping
3. DC Shoes Mens Shoes Pure – Shoes 300660
- Lace-up leather sneaker with multiple brand callouts...
- Performance cup sole
- Abrasion-resistant sticky rubber outsole. Upper: Leather /...
- Mesh Lining
DC really knows how to put together a great skate shoe. The Action Sport Sneaker is a flashy model, available in a huge number of different color options.
Most of the shoe is fabricated from supple, hard-wearing action leather. That means exceptional safety without sacrificing comfort. The soles are made from imported rubber, offering terrific grip on your board without adding much to the overall weight of the shoe. Durability is great here, too.
The collar is heavily padded to provide both comfort and protection, and inside drainage ports keep the shoes well-ventilated. These shoes’ uppers are made from leather, but they have mesh linings to keep them cool even on the most active rides.
The Action Sport has a “wrap cup” design around the toe box that provides some much-appreciated extra room around the toes and further enhances breathability. It’s also one of those skater-exclusive design choices; these shoes help bring down the odds of coming off a ride with bruised toes. It’s a pain all too many skaters know and these shoes are built to try and alleviate it.
These are incredibly tough skate sneakers that will deliver long-lasting performance.
- Leather uppers
- Rubber outsole
- Textile mesh liners
- High durability
- None
4. adidas Originals Men’s Seeley Running Shoe | Best Skateboard Shoes for Beginners and New Riders | Best Slip-On Skate Shoes
- Lightweight skate shoes with a vulc outsole for extra grip
- Textile upper for soft comfort
- Lightly padded for ankle protection
- Vulcanized rubber outsole for precise board feel
Adidas is a top-three name in shoe manufacturing for a whole host of different sports. While soccer will always be the company’s bread and butter, their Seeley Skate Shoes show that they’re far from ignorant of the specific needs of skateboarders.
These shoes are designed in a way that trick boarders will particularly appreciate. They have vulcanized rubber outsoles for maximum flexibility and grip. Adidas offers an exclusive, proprietary tread pattern for superior traction and exceptional board control.
Stability is improved by the wraparound midsoles. The uppers are soft and light for more agility, and padding on the tongue and collar is also kept light to keep you flexible. This is a great choice of shoe for downhill boarders and trick specialists.
- Wraparound midsole
- Flexible collar and tongue
- Thick outsole made of vulcanized rubber
- Hard-wearing abrasion-resistant synthetic materials throughout
- Superior traction from the proprietary tread
- Flexible low-profile design
- The middle can feel narrow
- Toes may be tight
- Some cases of damaged outsoles reported
5. DC Women Trase TX Skate Shoe | Best Low Top Skate Shoes
- Low-top sneaker featuring four-eyelet lacing and padded...
- Logo at tongue, sides, and heel counter
- Wraparound midsole with textured toe bumper
The Trase TX is a formidable skate shoe in a lot of different areas. The design is carefully thought out, the look is stylish, the performance is highly agile. While the Trase TX risks being overshadowed by some of the other outstanding offerings from DC, it’s well worth a closer look. Anybody who wants a solid, long-lasting pair of skate shoes should take at least a quick look at the DC Trase TX.
This is, in some respects, a “stealth” skate shoe. It passes quite well as a run-of-the-mill sneaker until you look at it closely. DC’s star logo is branded unobtrusively into the heel of the sole. The foxing tape runs up just a little bit higher than normal to give a distinctive look to the shoes. This isn’t just an aesthetic choice, though; the higher tape extends the shoe’s useful lifespan and protects the material whenever a trick gets you dragging your foot.
The Trase TX has a little extra padding for added comfort. The low-rise still points to a clear preference for flexibility and mobility over total support. These are exceptionally strong shoes that will keep you moving during even the longest, hardest, trickiest sessions. And it’s not exactly a dealbreaker to find out that these stylish, distinctive shoes can be yours for a surprisingly reasonable price. The DC Trase TX offers to add great comfort, versatility, and overall flexibility to your collection of skate shoes.
- Vulcanized construction
- Pill-pattern tread
- Metal eyelets
- Canvas uppers
- Abrasion-resistant
- High-mobility low profile design
- Minimal arch support
- Sizing tends to run narrow
6. Etnies Jameson 2 Eco Skate Shoe | Most Durable Skate Shoes
- Color-blocked skater sneaker in cupsole construction...
- Padded collar
- Wraparound midsole with contrast piped stripe
- Internal EVA midsole
For those longboardrs and downhill skateboarders that don’t practice too many tricks, these shoes from IPATH might be the best options for you. Unlike many of the other options here, the cut is a bit higher and can cover the ankle entirely. You will also find some faux-firm around the edge for style and some comfort too.
Some other nice features are the herringbone tread for maximum board control, the thicker laces that allow for easier tightening and the soft suede top that looks amazing. All in all, this is the comfortable and attractive option for those who aren’t too concerned with fancy performance.
- Synthetic materials are animal friendly
- Imported skate shoe
- Hard rubber sole
- High cut collar covers and supports ankles
- Lightly padded tongue and collar
- Soft suede upper
- Thick laces for easy tightening
- Herringbone tread
- Thick faux-fur lining inside
- Sizing can be a little difficult for some feet
- High top design cramps smooth ankle movement on board.
7. Etnies Men’s Marana Skateboarding Shoe
- Padded tongue and collar
- Reinforced molded rubber toe cap
- Pro 1 polyurethane footbed
- Sti evolution foam
- Sti non-slip grip outsole
If you are the type into flying high and falling hard, these shoes will offer you extra protection on those harder landings. The secret lies in a specialized polyurethane foam insole which is far sturdier and more durable than the options you find in similar shoes.
Some othr good features you can expect from the Marana include an STI Evolution Midsole and sturdy rubber outsole. You will also find flex grooves that are designed for added stability when landing, so the board doesn’t fly away from you. There is also a fused rubber toe-cap that adds important foot protection and a tread designed after the tires of a car provide excellent traction.
These are shoes to be worn with no fear of damage, so wear’m proud and hurt’m plenty.
- STI Evolution midsole
- Pro foam polyurethane foam insole
- Beefy car-tire inspired tread
- Imported leather skate shoe
- Fused rubber toe cap
- Rugged and flexible
- 400 NBS rubber outsole
- Flex grooves for stability
- Sizing can be a little difficult for some skaters
- Structural integrity comprmized when soaked
8. Emerica Men’s The Romero Laced Skate Shoe
- One-Piece Toe Cap
- Tongue Stabilizing “Wings”
- Triangle Tread
- Low Profile Cup Sole Construction
This attractive option from Emerica Romero feature cupsole technology and can be expected to provide that enduring protection and crisp connection to the board that will allow for hours and hours of enjoyable practice. The specially designed tread here creates an excellent contact area with that board and a gum rubber construction adds stability to maneuvers. The aesthetics are also especially attractive and this pair of shoes can be worn skating or as casual war.
Because of all the footwork and movement on the board, it is easy for the shoes tongue to become twisted, moved to one side or just uncomfortable. To prevent this, the tongue in these shoes features wide stabilizing wings that keep it firmly in place.
With a low-sole and cupped fit this shoe will protect your foot from movement within the shoe that can add stress and strain on movements and decrease efficient movement. This w9ill also cut down on irritation and make the performance more comfortable. The price is right as well, not too high considering the significant value of their performance option. The materials for construction are also light and breathable.
- Suede Upper
- Gum Rubber Outsole
- Triangle Tread
- Tongue Stabilizing Wings
- Low Profile Cut
- Single Piece Toe Cap
- Might be too Small consider ordering a size larger
- Sometimes too Narrow for wider feet
9. C1RCA AL50 Adrian Lopez Lightweight Insole Skate Shoe | Best Option for Wide Feet
- Low-rise skate shoe with triple-stitched toe reinforcement...
- Padded tongue and collar
- Breathable mesh tongue
- Adrian Lopez signature model
If you are a skater with extensive practice you are probably familiar with the difficulty in finding a good well-rounded skate shoe. Well search no more, because the C1rca AL50 is culmination of extensive R&D with skaters in mind. The capacity to choose between gum rubber and synthetic outsoles is one example that allows you to select the best grip for you needs.
The surface of a skateboard is abrasive and sandpaper like, this can actually do a number on the shoe’s sole if it is not designed to withstand this attrition. For the best traction possible through the entire lifespan of the shoes, you will need to get a durable contact area. For this reason, the C1rca features a rugged AL50 abrasion resistant sole. This will provide the proper traction you need for much longer than any other pair of equal value.
Another point where the C1rca excels is in the padding it places at all the right spots. Around the tongue and color is especially well-padded and this provides a precise protection for when the board will be contacting the feet. You will also find that the shoe adds a little extra toe room for wide footed skaters which is not uncommon at all. Another part that has been especially well-planned is its vulcanized construction that increases the shoes overall flexibility.
Finally, the C1rca AL50 features one of the lowest costs on our list here, so for those looking for a slightly bulkier style but still staying on budget, this option is perfect. Being specially designed for the all-round skater, it has the details that can keep the foot safe and comfortable, provide excellent contact and still sporting casual yet stylish design.
- Abrasion Resistant
- Suede Upper
- Padded Tongue and Collar
- Vulcanized Rubber Outsole
- Tough Laces
- Wide Toe Box
- Dubious Stitching Quality
- Limited Color Options
10. Vans Men’s Half CAB Skate Shoes 6.5 | Best High Top Skate Shoes
- Vans
- Unisex Shoes
- Fashion Shoes
- Black/Grey
- Synthetic
This high-top skate shoe features a very flamboyant rugby-style outlook and that trendy 1966 backing. High performance or not, these skate shoes will earn you a complement or two and someone is bound to inquire about your provider.
What has m concerned as I examine this shoes the apparent decrease in arch support, which is more important to some skaters than others. Really, you can go either way but understand the tradeoff between improved durability on one side or grip and board-feel on the other.
In any case, it’s your lucky day because the insole can be swapped out for something a bit more suitable. I would recommend the Dr. Scholls/Odor Eater insole for its improved performance and comfort after long hours of grinding.
- Good fitting
- Synthetic material is lightweight and animal-friendly
- Good board-feel and grip
- Flexible and comfortable
- Various color options
- Break-in quickly
- High-top shoe for ultimate protection
- Less mobility
- There’s annoying squeak when walking
- Wide feet should go a half size bigger
11. Nike SB Zoom Stefan Janoski OG Men’s Skateboarding Shoe | Best Cupsole Skate Shoes
These sneakers were developed through a collaboration with Stefan Janoski himself, which translated into shoes that are easy everyday wear shoes, that also perform excellently when you are on your board. The uppers feature a high-quality suede which a lot more durable when compared to canvas, along with perforations which help with controlling temperature and keeping your feet well-ventilated. This model is lightweight and won’t leave you feeling exhausted and worn out after a long day of skating. They are also the perfect shoes to help you improve your skating skills.
This shoe comes with a vulcanized, low-profile outsole and while you might achieve an outstanding feel with your board, you may need extra protection. The sock liner offers this added protection with the addition of the Nike Zoom Air Heel Cushion, which makes the shoes comfortable to walk in along with absorbing shock from those harder landings. This feature is designed to save your muscles and joints from injury and fatigue.
Released in 2009, these sneakers have bought about a change to the game using a low collar which requires a dedicated heel-band in order to maintain its place. The main reason behind this significant design innovation has to do with mobility. With less material restricting your ankles you are offered with more freedom in order to perform a number of different tricks. When it comes to the price tag, the Nike Zoom Stefan Janoski is slightly above average, yet still regarded as acceptable when it comes to affordability. There is a choice in a canvas and suede upper, or you can choose from a limited edition which is a lot more stylish and colorful when compared to standard skateboarding shoes.
- Perforated which allows for breathability
- Suede upper
- Low Collar
- Nike Zoom Air Cushioning
- Low Profile Vulcanized Rubber Outsole
- They can get hot
- They run narrow
12. New Balance Men’s 331v1 Skate Shoe – Most Affordable Option | Best Value
- Vulcanized midsole
- Fresh Foam Insert
These New Balance 331v1 Men’s shoes are the second pair I recommend for the novice riders that are in search of a durable and affordable skate shoe. These sneakers are low maintenance which means you can regularly get your shoes dirty and then clean them without having to worry about wear-and-tear.
Manufactured with very high-quality materials, and ethically made, this shoe comes with fresh-foam inserts, along with rubber soles and high-quality textile materials. They are not just comfortable and breathable, but the shoes high-flexibility along with excellent board-feel help you to achieve those intricate kickflip tricks.
- BBreak-in quickly
- High-quality materials that are breathable and durable
- Herringbone tread which provides exceptional grip
- The low-top design offers improved mobility
- Decent board-feel and high-flexibility
- Additional foam-inserts for added comfort
- They are lacking in heel support
13. Emerica Men’s Reynolds G6 Skate Shoe | Best Option for Arch Support
- Pour In G6 PU Midsole
- Molded EVA insole
- Bi-Fold Welded Toe Cap
- Triangle Tread Outsole
- Stitch and Turned Vamp / Quarter
This remastered pair of classical shoes draws from the Emercia X Reynolds history and its nostalgia strings derived from one of the favorites when it comes to skateboard footwear.
This footwear features extreme restructuring which results in an improved board-feel and added cushioning thanks to the G6 PU midsole along with the G6 application. The technology that has gone into the development of these shoes has resulted in a combination of a precise fit and superior comfort.
- Precise fit
- Durable
- Flexible with excellent board-feel
- Elegant look with great support
- Increased mobility
- Triangle tread-outsole that results in improved grip
- Top-rated aesthetics
- G6 PU midsole and EVA insole for added comfort
- Signature G6 technology
- People with wide feet may need to choose a bigger size
14. DC Shoes Mens Shoes Wes Kremer 2 S – Skate Shoes Adys300241 | Best Vulcanized Skate Shoes
For an extremely versatile option in skate shoes, the DC Wes Kremer 2 S is the ideal choice. Its fashionable, stylish and trendy appeal can easily become one of the essentials when it comes to your wardrobe helping you to easily go from a cool and energetic skateboarder to a modern and sophisticated office guy.
You can easily use this footwear with jeans, shorts, or pants on just about any occasion. In addition, the 12-color mix options offer you a variety of choices. Yet it is also worth mentioning the ideal combination of the strength in the cupsole even though these shoes feature vulcanized soles. They provide exceptional durability while still providing comfort and great board-feel. They are also great for high-impact skating as the Impact S Tech addition provides excellent absorption.
- Great grip
- Flexible, comfortable and soft on your feet
- Added lacing for additional support
- Durable materials with high-impact absorption
- Fashionable and stylish
- Takes longer to break-in when compared to other similar vulcanized skating footwear
15. Lakai Men’s Fremont-M Skateboarding Shoe | Best Option for Flip Tricks
- Great board feel
The standout feature about these cupsole shoes would be excellent heel support. This skateboard footwear from Lakai is well-known when it comes to exceptional heel support and outstanding impact absorption. The main drawback of these shoes is that they are lacking when it comes to board feel.
Yet when it comes to the Lakia Men’s Fremont, this is not the case. Regardless of the tricks, you like to perform, this footwear provides great board feel and will help you to maintain control and balance. This is due to the flexible soles on these well-made shoes.
Other attractive features include the additional vent holes which help your feet to stay cool and dry even on the hottest summer days. What is perhaps the most impressive feature about these shoes is the fact that they are ready for use straight out-of-the-box, with no need to break them in.
- Exceptional heel support
- 100% suede and no break-in time
- Affordable price
- Various colors and sizes to choose from
- Great board feel
- Good grip and flexible
- The heel lock is not great
16. Reebok Work Men’s Soyay RB1910 Skate Style EH Safety Shoe
- Classic skateboard oxford
- Electrical hazard protection
- Steel toe
- Grip master slip resistant rubber sole with EVA cushion...
- Meets ASTM F2413 Testing Standards
Are you thinking about taking your skateboarding skills to the next level? Is so, these Reebok Soyay cleats feature steel toes. This is slip-resistant premium footwear and provides you with a good grip with your board. They don’t slip in oily and wet conditions and hold you strong on your board.
It provides extra protection as well against metal chips and heat. A lined Tailex is on the outer part of the frame that wicks moisture away effectively while the insoles have a removable EVA cushion with a sponge rubber heel wedge to provide extra comfort.
This pair of shoes all can really make heads turn if you would like to stroll around town on them, on a hike, or simply for casual wear.
The steel toe is marketed as being lightweight. However, it isn’t. But you will have better toe protection and a comfortable feeling.
The inner sole has extra padding that prevents your feet from bruising and absorbs impacts that come with hard landings.
- Electric hazard protection
- Steel toe for additional protection
- The rubber sole offers added grip with your board
- Imported leather provides more durability
- Weight is increased by the steel toe
17. Supra Vaider Skate Shoe | Best Option for Kids
- Padded mesh collar and tongue
- molded PU footbed
- mesh sock liner
- vulcanized outsole
This is my favorite shoe because it comes in my size and fits great and provides plenty of extra protection. It all comes from the great high-top design and additional mesh padding in the mesh and tongue of the shoe.
In terms of grip and board-feel, although they are not fantastic, you feel like you should be in a Magic Mike’s show, and it is good enough that it helps you be more flexible when doing flips and tricks.
I wear mine every day to cruise around the neighborhood to practice more complex tricks in a nearby skatepark. Also, their snazzy appearance is ideal to with style with my more dressy outfit. For all of the versatility that these shoes provide, I highly recommend them 100%!
- Good board-feel and grip
- Flexible
- Affordable
- Breathable
- Extra mesh on the collar and tongue provide more protection and comfort
- High-top design for optimizing your feet’s protection
- Durable, high-quality leather
- Need time to allow the leather material to break in
18. Nike SB Hyperfeel Koston 3 Mens Trainers 819673 Sneakers Shoes | Best Option for Ankle Support | Professional’s Choice
- Nike SB Hyperfeel Koston 3 Mens Trainers 819673 Sneakers...
I guess without a lot of discussing, you can find out what the highlight feature is on the Nike XB Huperfeel Koston quite easily. Yes, it is the shoe’s elastic high-top design that fits snug to your ankles and is like a collar. However, there is more to this benefit apart from just providing easy access for your feet to these shoes. It provides you with a lot more than what you were bargaining for.
The design features great protection for your ankles, thick material, and also these shoes don’t disturb you from having flexible movement during a flip or ride. So, in other words, it features all of the strengths of both a high-top and a low-top skateboard shoe. They are very low-maintenance as well.
Overall, you are going to feel that they are 100% worth your money. I guarantee it!
- Great heel support
- Efficiently absorbs impact
- Ultra protection for your ankles and feet with great mobility
- Comfortable and breathable
- Provides better board-feel and control for a perfect balance
- The material blend of textiles and synthetics offers super lightness
- Not a lot of color options
19. Nike Men’s SB Zoom Dunk Low Pro Skate Shoe | Best Option for Flat Feet
- Classic low-profile look with support and durability
- Reduced padding and a slimmed-down construction around the...
- Mesh tongue and perforations at the toe box for...
- Full-length EVA midsole for lightweight cushioning and...
- Nike Zoom unit in the heel for responsive cushioning
Nike is my favorite all-time athletic brand of specialized footwear. Now, I don’t have a Nike addiction or anything, but there are so many great things that come with this expensive shoe that convinces me to spend money on them.
The first thing to note is the soft suede and high-quality material along with padding and construction around the collar and tongue. These advances bring better mobility, control, and breathability instead of the stiff, thick leather that some shoes feature.
I have been searching for classic low-profile skate shoes, but ones that are not as low as Vans are and fit right. These provide decent durability and support that make them worth every cent I spent on them.
One final bonus is the shoe’s full-length EVA midsole that provides lightweight cushioning, comfort, and extra sturdiness. They are ideal for professional riders in a pinch.
- Lightweight and sturdy
- Comfortable and breathable
- Good mobility
- Low profile but provide great support
- Durable, lightweight, and high-quality material
- A bit on the expensive side
20. Fallen Men’s D O A Skate Shoe | Best Mid Top Skate Shoes
- Slim, mid-top upper which can be cut down into 2 different...
- Seamless one piece toe panel for increased structure and...
- Impact foam insole for long lasting impact cushioning
- Vulcanized construction with abrasion resistant outsole
This same material blend of genuine suede and canvas that the Supra Method provides and like all good skate shoes it features a rubber sole. This one, however, is specialized at doing tricks.
They are priced very inexpensively but still provide decent quality which makes me feel like I get a good bang for all of my bucks.
In particular, the one-piece seamless toe panels prevents any annoying stitching issues. Also, the shoes provide great peace of mind due to the fantastic durability. I am kind of a clumsy guy at times, so I really like the medium-top silhouette also, since it isn’t too short that it exposes my ankles and also not too high to limit the shoes’ mobility. So, two thumbs up!
- Durable and high-quality material at a very affordable price
- Breathable and comfortable
- Herringbone tread for improved grip and good board-feel
- More flexible
- Feels softer
- Smooth rubber finish
- More mobility than a high-top and better protection than a low-top
- Seamless one-piece toecap reduces stitching issues while increasing durability
- Lacking in heel support
- For better comfort, insoles need to be replaced
More Products (Our Rating: 4 Stars)
- Vans SK8 Hi Black/Black/White Canvas
- Canvas upper & rubber sole
- Imported
- By Vans
- Mesh lining
- Foam padded tongue and collar for comfort and support.
- Iconic styling with reinforced high abraision areas for...
- Lightweight padded tounge and collar for added comfort and...
- Abrasion resistant rubber outsole for wear, durability and...
- Embroidered Vans Logo On Quarter Panel
- Classic Vans Cup Sole Comfort
- Outer Material: Leather Suede. Inner Material: Cotton Fabric
- Made with a rubber sole for extra ground traction
- Perfect for any casual events
- Built upon one of Emerica’s classic after-skate chillers,...
- Most Wino Cruisers are canvas, but depending on the specific...
- Triangle Tread Sole For Extra Grip & Support: The Wino...
- The Wino Cruiser is a low-profile skate shoe with a...
- The full length mid-sole provides support throughout the...
- STI evolution foam insole
- Grippy vulcanized outsole
- Rubber printed toe cap
- Reinforced upper for support
- Breathable mesh tongue and collar lining
- Foam Lite 1 Insole
- Midsole egg-crate construction
- 300 NBS rubber outsole
- Die cut quarter arrow logo
- inspired by classic models
- Low-cut skate shoe with durable seamless toe and wraparound...
- Herringbone tread
- Lightly padded collar and tongue
Benefits of Shoes Designed Specifically for Skateboarding
Padding
It’s one of the main benefits found on skate shoes. The side walls, the heel and the tongue are padded sufficiently to make the shoes very comfortable to wear and prevent injuries. The padding, extra upholstery on skate shoes, absorbs the impact force when you are doing hard tricks jumps or if you need to bail out immediately.
Enhanced Shoelaces
The shoelaces found on skate shoes are enhanced as well as the lace holes they are built through. These shoes use waxed or leather shoelaces because they are durable regardless of the frequent usage. On the other hand, the shoes have plastic or metal eyelets to improve the durability of the shoelaces accordingly.
The Main Differences Between Skate Shoes and Normal Shoes
As the name suggests, skate shoes are designed for skateboarding. Therefore, they will not offer the same benefits when used for running, walking, hiking or any other activities. Note that, the outsoles on skate shoes are not flexible so you are likely going to injure yourself if you use them as running shoes. You can only use the shoes for skateboarding and a bit of walking but nothing else.
The main difference between normal shoes and skate shoes is the outsole. In normal shoes the outsoles have been designed to provide traction in different terrains. However, for skate shoes, the outsoles are designed from stiff and durable rubber. The design allows the shoes to be used on abrasive surfaces without fault.
There are also a few notable differences in the insole/midsole found in normal shoes and skating shoes. For instance, with skate shoes, the midsole/insole is designed for impact protection (also referred to as board feel). The toe area in the insole has a thin padding. That way, when you wear the shoes, you can control the skateboard effortlessly. The padding found on the heel area is thicker thus providing the best impact protection.
Most people assume that canvas and leather are the perfect materials for designing skate shoes. However, suede is actually the industry standard. It’s a flexible, light and very durable material.
Skate Shoe Brands
Skaters have varying needs when it comes to their shoes. However, the bottom line is that they need comfortable shoes when skating to avoid any injuries. There are so many brands in the market to choose from when looking for skate shoes. It’s likely that you will feel overwhelmed when looking for the best shoes.
Most of these brands actually care about their image among their consumers. Therefore, they design shoes with the best innovative technology to guarantee optimal performance. Here are some of the top reviews of skate shoes to make your decision easier.
Vans – With the notable changes in the skateboarding world in the 1990’s, this shoe company stepped out to produce some of the most popular skate shoes in the market today. It was one of the first companies to endorse and fully support skating so a lot of skaters resonate with this brand globally. If you are looking for the best skate shoes, you should start with this company.
Etnies – It is a well-renowned brand when it comes to quality footwear for skating. The brand is known for producing personal and innovative skate shoes thus it’s a personal favorite for many skaters. Each pair of shoes has the highest quality of craftsmanship since the company understands and fully supports skaters. The company is an active promoter of skate parks and many charities. For instance, with every pair purchased, the company plants a tree in the rainforest.
DC – If you have been purchasing skating products since the early 1990’s, you should instantly recognize this company. The shoes are designed to offer comfort and support. One of the most recognizable features of the shoes are the fat shoe laces. Skaters who have been doing their sport for many years value and trust skate shoes coming from this company because they are designed to showcase function and form effectively.
Globe – It’s one of the oldest companies in the market, having been established in the 1980’s. The shoes actually helped establish professional skating and they provide quality footwear for both novice and pro skaters. The company respects and hones the love of skating, especially from young people and always host events that put the sport back on the map.
Airwalk – If you are looking for comfortable skate shoes, you should consider this brand. The company has been around for a long time, so you can count on the top quality when you purchase these skate shoes. They offer the most affordable shoes in the market so they are ideal for beginners who are just getting the hang of it. Of course, the affordability of these shoes doesn’t mean that they are not good. With every pair produced, the company can guarantee comfort safety and long-lasting shoes.
Emerica – These shoes are often worn by professional competitors. That’s because the brand has a design which grips on the skateboard directly. Besides having a great aesthetic appeal, the shoes also have an improved function that supports skating. This brand of skater shoes has a grip control feature as well as sharp designs and cool logos loved by the skaters. If you are looking to skate as good as the pros, you can try out this brand for the best results.
Lakai – It’s a brand of skater shoes whose founders originally worked under DC. The founders noticed a few weaknesses in the skate footwear and created a brand that catered to these weaknesses. This brand of skating footwear creates styles and designs that appeal to skaters. Also, the shoes provide comfort, function and form for the best results.
Nike SB – Although it wasn’t originally established to create skating footwear the brand also offers a few shoes designed for skating. Over the years, the globally renowned brand has perfected their designs and created a great line of skating footwear that competes with the most professional skate shoes out there. A lot of skating enthusiasts have actually discovered the brand has to offer so the brand has become a fan favorite. Skaters are basically looking for good footwear they can rely on and a good brand to deliver the best results. You can always trust this brand when it comes to the highest quality and build of skating shoes.
Fallen – It’s still a new brand in the market but the footwear is very good. They design their shoes specifically for young skaters so they have a cool factor in their shoe designs. They appeal to many skaters with these amazing designs but their skate shoes always perform the job as required. It’s actually one of the renowned contenders for skating footwear in the market, besides the brand being in the market for a very short time. They bring different and innovative styles with their skating footwear by always prizing individuality. It might not always be the first pick among the numerous brands out there but it’s always a trusted choice for skate shoes.
Adio – This brand of skating footwear is mostly worn by pros and it’s an established brand for the same. The shoe company has piled up a lot of celebrity endorsements but there are more things that make the brand stand out. Of course, it’s hard to ignore this brand if a lot of celebrities are ignoring it. Of course, it’s not just a simple famous shoe brand but it has a lot to offer with comfort and style for most skaters.
In conclusion, it takes a lot to find the best shoe brands for your skating needs. However, by choosing one among these top brands, you can’t go wrong. Don’t rush into choosing a specific brand simply because it is famous. Rather, you need to look for a shoe that offers the top comfort while you skate and prevents injuries. Take your time and do your research for the best results.
Buying Guide: Tips on Choosing the Best Skateboard Shoes
If you are just starting out, or whether you happen to be one of the expert riders, this is our list of important considerations before you invest in skateboard shoes.
To make things easier to understand, let’s start off with the overall style that this footwear is associated with, there are 2 main types.
1. Style
The style of skate cleats will depend on what your riding style is. You will need light cleats if you use your skateboard to cruise across town or heavier cleats that are able to withstand impacts.
Vulcanized
These skate shoes are slim and look similar to casual footwear. This is a lightweight style that features great flexibility and thinner soles, more maneuverability which provides you with an improved grip to help you achieve flip tricks on your board. Even though the vulcanized style usually provides better performance and grip they often lack cushioning. In fact, you might not obtain enough shock absorption when you perform tricks that result in a hard landing.
Cupsoles
Unlike the vulcanized style, the cupsoles are designed for skaters who are more involved in performing tricks that involve large drop-offs or tricks down stairs. These shoes are basically much better at absorbing shocks and help to prevent bruising to the area of your heels. This is a much bulkier style along with thick soles along with heavy padding for additional support. These may lag a bit in regards to control, yet overall, for the riders that enjoy large drops, this is the preferred and safer skatewear.
2. Durability
Know that you know more about the styles of these cleats, your next consideration includes durability which is actually a very important factor.
If the shoes are not durable, they will wear down quickly and your new skate shoes will end up being a waste of your time and money.
Nobody wants a crap pair of shoes….
Due to the fact that skateboarding involves mainly footwork, along with exposing your shoes to different environments and terrain, below are a few of the design features which contribute towards increasing durability:
Upper Materials
For a longer lifespan, the uppers should feature additional layers for added protection. The sports footwear that features triple stitching assists in stopping the seams from splitting.
Outer Sole
The outer soles of your shoes are constantly exposed to the concrete or road and your board, which means they have to be solid. The waffle grip flat-soled shoes are popular at the moment and are effective when it comes to slowing down general wear-and-tear. However, the sticky-gum rubber and flat-profile shoes are still one of the best options. The flat-profile distributes the area of contact across the sole evenly and the gum rubber provides an improved grip that also lasts longer.
3. Protection
Your skate shoes need to be tough and durable enough to not only protect themselves but at the same time provide protection for your feet.
Midsole
Just about all the brands of skateboard footwear comes with lightweight midsoles constructed out of a flexible EVA foam (made up of thousands of gas bubbles). These tiny gas bubbles will release as your land on your feet and then refill as you lift each foot from the ground. Alternatives to EVA foam include the skate shoes that feature PU foam. This is a heavier and denser foam which will not break down as fast when compared to EVA.
Dual Heel Cushioning
Look for the skate cleats that come with added heel cushioning that provides improved heel protection. The vulcanized shoes are usually dual-cushioned with G2 cushioning for impact absorption and comfort.
Heel Collar
Thicker heel collars across the heels help to stop you from losing your shoes during maneuvers.
4. Comfort
Comfort happens to be something that involves the link that occurs between your skateboard and your brain. Your skate footwear needs to be comfortable so that you can enjoy the ride along with performing your preferred tricks.
In addition, your shoes should not be producing heat which will probably distract you. The most important factor when it comes to overall comfort has to do with padding on the inside of your shoes. The best footwear will provide you with a secure and confident feeling from the moment that you put them on.
5. Fit
Each foot should be fitting perfectly into your skate shoes. If the shoes are too loose or too tight, it will stop you from improving your skills. Always look for shoes with a size that fits your feet perfectly when you are wearing socks. This not only provides comfort but will also help you to prevent injuries.
6. Types – Low-Cut, Mid, Or High
The three common types of skateboard shoes include low-top, mid-top, and high-top shoes.
The high-cut skate shoes usually end just above your ankles. This is the cut that usually provides more padding and stability, and is, in general, the safest out of the three. However, high-top shoes can become warm when there is not much ventilation present. These are a good choice if you use your footwear over the winter and fall seasons as they are perfect to retain warmth.
The mid-top shoes are the ideal choice if you are unable to make a choice between the high-cut and the low-cut types. These shoes provide plenty of comfort, impact dampening, and stability.
The Low-cut shoes are the standard in regards to skating shoes. Even though these shoes do not provide the same level of padding and support as the high-tops do, they are still able to offer ample cushioning. In addition, these shoes are also a more lightweight option when compared to the other types. The low-cuts do not offer much protection when it comes to twisting and impacts, which is the reason why these shoes are better suited to the professionals.
7. Stitching
When you start shopping for new skate footwear, make sure you inspect the shoe from every angle in order to make sure they are stitched properly. You want to avoid the shoes that are glued together. One of the advantages of the skate shoes over standard footwear is the seams which are double reinforced, and some shoes even feature triple stitching. This will mean that your shoes will be able to withstand a lot of wear-and-tear without splitting open. In fact, this is usually the last part that will wear down on your shoes. The outer may start to tear and fray, and your soles will also eventually waste away. But when it comes to the stitching and seams, these will usually still be going strong.
8. Weight
There has to be a balance when it comes to this type of footwear. It may be great having more than enough reinforcement, but if your shoes are starting to feel like concrete blocks, you won’t be participating in many tricks using them. The technology and the overall design has to be lightweight so that you can move freely. However, your shoes should also not be overly light either. It is important to take care when it comes to the overall weight of the shoe. If the shoes you are trying on feel very light, they may also be flimsy.
9. Grip
Just about all the skate cleats have rubber soles and flat profiles to achieve better grip, which usually comes in the form of a gum-rubber grip. This is the type of grip you need to hug your board with your feet.
You should also ensure the grips feature many grips underneath which makes these shoes more attachable.
Since each brand will differ when it comes to how many grips they use, this is something worthwhile finding out before you invest in a new pair.
10. Materials
The top-rated skateboard shoes will be made using one or more of these materials for protection, comfort, and durability:
Leather
This is a well-known material when it comes to strength and durability and these shoes will mold perfectly around each foot. Action leather, full-grain, and Nubuck leather are the 3 common types used to manufacture skate cleats. Nubuck leather provides better durability and grip which will improve your overall performance. The full-grain leather is regarded as long-lasting and very durable, while Action Leather is somewhat similar to full-grain yet they are slightly less durable.
Suede
This is the type of material which assists with superior maneuverability. It offers an aristocratic appearance along with a smooth finish. The durability of these materials is not as great when compared to leather.
Synthetic Materials
These shoes are also known as artificially created, and often feature similar characteristics to the natural materials such as leather. Cleats that are produced from synthetic materials happen to be cheaper, and also able to stand up well to the pressures linked with daily skating.
11. Reinforcement and Toe Caps
Toe caps in skateboard shoes are vital to provide protection to your toes when it comes to bruising and injuries.
Your skate footwear needs toe caps which are either made from leather or rubber to provide you with added durability.
This will also help to stop your footwear from breaking or splitting due to rigorous activities that you participate in when you ride.
12. Additional Features
You should also find out about any additional features which are built into the skate footwear that you are interested in. This can include lace holes and lace protection. These shoes should offer some form of protection for your laces, such as reinforced eyelets. If there isn’t any plastic or metal eyelets, you will most likely rip right through them very quickly. The shoes should also come with small flaps which cover the laces on the lower part of the shoes. This protects this area of the shoe when you perform tricks like kickflips.
It is also important to find out more about the overall grip. You should be looking for the “grippy” gum soles rather than just standard EVA rubber. You need shoes that will grip onto your skateboard, or you may just keep slipping off your board.
The Proper Way to Lace Skate Shoes
There’s more than one way of lacing the shoes. One is the most popular way which is what’s called a reverse crisscross.
This is done by putting the right half of the shoelace in the lowest hole or eyelet and then the left in the lowest left hole. You then began to crisscross the lacing. There is now a line crossways at the bottom and the laces have made an X for the second set of holes. This process is then repeated until the laces are put through all the holes.
At the last hole, you are able to tie the laces off. You make the knot close to the hole on the inside of the shoe. Do that for both the left and right sides. You’ll want to cut off any extra shoestring but still leave enough which will probably be about an inch.
FAQs
Can Skate Shoes Be Used for Walking?
They are not really made for walking but if it’s a short distance then they’ll be okay. If you plan on walking for a number of hours then you’ll almost certainly find that they aren’t comfortable. The reason is that the design of the shoe gives it a flat bottom and only basic arch support. They’re also heavier than ordinary shoes and if you’re walking in them for a long time you’ll begin to feel that added weight.
Are the Shoes Bad for Your Feet?
No, they’re not really bad for your feet. It’s unlikely that you would enjoy wearing them for a long period or when on a long walk but that’s simply because they don’t give enough arch support. Some of the upgraded versions have softer insoles but they still won’t be comfortable for extended walks. Even so, you aren’t likely to have any injuries of any significance from walking in your skate shoes.
How Can I Make My Skate Shoes Last Longer?
One of the best things you can do to take care of your shoes is to make sure when you’re wearing them that they’re laced tightly. This helps keep your feet from slipping which helps you prevent injury and it also puts less stress on the shoes. When you go to take the shoes off you should loosen the laces enough so that the shoes come off easily. If you just slip them off as they are, it will start to deform the padding over time.
Don’t use any type of strong detergents on the shoe if you’re washing it. Doing so could cause the colors to fade and a strong detergent can weaken the adhesive that keeps the shoe together. Never put them into the washing machine. If you put them in a washing machine it will damage the padding and you’ll probably find the shoes to be uncomfortable afterward.
Is There a Special Way to Wear Skate Shoes?
You want the shoes to be firm when you’re wearing them so this can be accomplished by making sure the laces are tied tight enough. If part of the laces are hanging then they should be placed inside the shoe so that you don’t step on them. Trim any part of the lace that is too long so that it doesn’t get caught in the wheels. If this were to happen you could be seriously injured.
In Conclusion
When you get the best skate shoes it will make skateboarding more enjoyable. You will want to do your homework so that you choose your first pair based on the most important factors. Some of these include the material they are made of, their functionality, their durability, and their overall construction.
Best Skate Shoes ( Top 3 Picks )
Last update on 2022-05-30 / Rating by Author / Affiliate links, Images, Descriptions & Price from Amazon Product Advertising API