Whatever you do, don’t just grab the first pair of shoes you see at Hot Topic or Zumiez! When I started skating, I used whatever shoes I had, including Timberland boots. Yeah, I was clueless about how the right shoes could enhance my experience and avoid setbacks.
Choosing the wrong skate shoes can hold you back and even cause discomfort or pain. Having the right pair can significantly improve your comfort and performance. By the end, you’ll know how to pick the perfect pair to boost your skating skills and avoid unnecessary pain. Let’s explore the world of skate shoes!
If you’re a visual learner, here is a video titled “HOW TO BUY SKATE SHOES” from the Shredz Shop YouTube channel.
Key takeaways
- Choose vulcanized soles for better board feel and flexibility or cupsoles for increased impact protection and durability
- Select suede for durability, canvas for breathability, or leather for water resistance and longevity
- Ensure a proper fit with about ¼ inch of wiggle room for your toes, allowing for break-in and foot swelling during skating
- Consider additional features like reinforced ollie areas, padded tongues and collars, and impact-absorbing insoles for enhanced performance and comfort
What makes a “skate shoe”?
Alright, so what exactly is a skate shoe? It’s not so obvious if you think about it, right? I mean, would a non-skater be able to tell a skate shoe from a non-skate shoe? Probably not, since they look relatively the same.
However, there are a few subtle features that separate a skate shoe from a regular sneaker:
- Grip Pattern: Flat outsoles with a basic, consistent grip pattern for better hold on the grip tape.
- Heel Cushioning: Crucial for absorbing impact when landing tricks. Trust me, heel bruises are no joke – they can end a session quickly.
- Toe Cap: Often made of rubber, toe caps extend the shoe’s lifespan, especially for those into flip tricks.
- Collar: The padding around the ankle. Thicker padding offers more protection, but some prefer a slimmed-down shoe for better mobility.
- Lace Protection: Some shoes have protective lace loops or hidden eyelets to prevent laces from wearing through quickly (critical for the flip-trickers).
- Reinforced Stitching: Key areas that take a beating from grip tape often have reinforced or hidden stitches.
- Insole: Provides cushioning and support. Often removable for customization.
TD;DR: What to consider when choosing a shoe
I want to respect your time and get this out of the way quickly, so here are the things you need to consider when choosing your skate shoes.
- Shoe Type: Consider whether you need high-top, low-top, or mid-top shoes. This choice affects ankle protection and flexibility.
- Skate Style: Understand your skating style and identify where your grip tape causes the most abrasion and where you typically land hardest.
- Sole Construction: Decide between cupsole or vulcanized shoes. Each type offers different benefits for board feel and impact protection.
- Material and Breathability: Choose materials that match your comfort needs. Consider whether you prefer a breathable, lightweight shoe or one with more protection.
- Ankle Protection vs. Flexibility: Assess your comfort level with exposed ankles. This factor influences both lightness and safety.
Additional Considerations:
- Price: Factor in your budget, as some skate shoes can be surprisingly expensive.
- Style: Remember that fashion plays a significant role in skate culture. While it might seem superficial, many skaters value staying current with industry trends.
Dos and don’ts of choosing skate shoes
Dos
- Consider your skating style when choosing between vulcanized and cupsole shoes
- Look for reinforced areas, especially around the toe and heel
- Try on shoes before purchasing to ensure a proper fit
- Consider aftermarket insoles for extra impact protection
Don’ts
- Don’t prioritize style over function and comfort
- Don’t ignore the importance of proper cushioning and support
- Don’t assume all skate-style shoes are suitable for actual skateboarding
- Don’t overlook the placement of seams, especially in high-wear areas
Now let’s dig into these criteria, a little deeper, starting with the type of shoe.
Types of skate shoes
When choosing skate shoes, I believe that the type of shoe is the most crucial factor. It affects both the look and feel, as well as the level of ankle protection while skating. For instance, low tops provide less protection while high tops offer more. Therefore, deciding on the type of shoe is a key decision when selecting skate shoes.
Below are the four main types of skate shows, along with their pros and cons.
| Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Tops | Maximum ankle mobility, Cooler in hot weather, Lightweight | Less ankle protection | Technical street skating, flip tricks |
| Mid Tops | Moderate ankle support, Good balance of protection and mobility | Can be slightly bulkier than low tops | All-around skating, smaller transitions |
| High Tops | Maximum ankle protection, Great for cold weather | Less mobility, Can be hot in summer | Vert skating, big tricks with hard landings |
| Slip-Ons | Easy to put on and take off, Often more breathable | Less secure fit for some foot types, Usually less protective | Casual skating, cruising |
I almost always choose high-tops because I’ve had my ankle injured before and want to avoid that in the future. High-tops give me a sense of security by providing more protection for my ankles.
If you’ve been skating for a while, you know that the board can come back at you at just the right angle and height to hit your ankle, so having a little extra padding there really helps.
Skate shoe materials
The material of your skate shoe can significantly affect its performance and durability, and it’s like me the second most important factor when considering your shoes. Below are four of the more popular materials for skate shoes, along with the pros and cons.
| Material | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canvas | Lightweight and breathable, Often cheaper | Wears out quickly, especially on the ollie area | Casual skating, hot weather |
| Suede | Durable, Good board feel, Breaks in well | Can get hot, Takes longer to dry if wet | Technical street skating |
| Patent Leather | Very durable, Water-resistant | Less breathable, Gets hot fast, Often more expensive | All-around skating, especially in wet conditions |
Alright, I’ll keep the bullet points while maintaining the more accessible language. Here’s the revised version:
Vulcanized vs. cupsole shoes
Vulcanized and cupsole are the two methods used to construct skate shoes. There has been a long-standing debate about these two methods, as they each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the differences between the two can significantly impact your choice, so let’s break it down:
Imagine gluing a thin rubber sole to a shoe and then baking it like a pizza. That’s basically how vulcanized shoes are made. These shoes are super flexible, like wearing a second skin on your feet. They’re light as a feather and let you feel every bump and groove of your board.
With vulcanized shoes, it’s like your feet are whispering directly to the board. They break in fast too, so no painful “new shoe” blisters. But heads up – if you’re jumping down big stairs, your feet might feel it more in these thin-soled kicks.
- Pros: Thin, light, flexible, good board feel, easy to break in
- Cons: Less durable, less impact protection
- Popular among: Street skaters, tech-trick enthusiasts
- Construction: Made from two pieces of rubber, with the upper glued to the sole and foxing tape wrapped around
Now, think of pouring rubber into a foot-shaped mold to make a tough, cup-like sole. That’s a cupsole. These shoes are like wearing comfy pillows on your feet. They’re thicker, more padded, and can take a beating.
Imagine bombing down a big ramp or leaping over a giant gap. Cupsoles have got your back (and your heels), absorbing those hard landings. They’re not as bendy as vulcanized shoes, and they might feel a bit clunky. But for skaters who go big or skate rough terrain, that extra protection is pure gold.
- Pros: Durable, better impact protection, more heel support
- Cons: Heavier, less board feel, longer break-in period
- Popular among: Vert skaters, those who skate big stairs or gaps
- Construction: Made from one piece of rubber formed in a mold, often featuring more technical designs
So, as you can see, there isn’t one that’s better than the other. They’re actually both made for different types of skating, so you gotta figure out your style and go from there.
Additional features to consider
When choosing your perfect skate shoe, several additional features can significantly impact your skating experience. Let’s explore some of these key elements that are often overlooked.
Seam placement and durability
Let’s talk about seams – they can be a real pain when you’re skating. Nothing’s worse than destroying the seams on your shoe’s toe area after just a few sessions. That’s why it’s smart to pay attention to where those stitches are when you’re picking out a new pair.
Here’s what to look for:
- Shoes with thick, double stitching in high-wear areas
- Models that have minimal or no stitching on the toe
- Seamless designs in areas that take a beating
The idea is to find shoes that’ll wear out gradually without falling apart. When you kick flip and do other tricks, you might still get a small hole, but it won’t turn into a giant opening that ruins your whole shoe. This way, you avoid that annoying “blow out” where the front of your shoe basically disintegrates.
So when you’re shopping for skate shoes, take a good look at those seams. Think about how you skate and where your shoes usually wear out. If you can spot potential weak points in the stitching, keep looking. A little attention to this detail can save you a lot of frustration (and money) down the road.
Heel Protection
Heel protection is crucial for preventing painful bruises that can cut your skating session short. A well-cushioned heel can absorb the impact from hard landings, allowing you to skate longer and push your limits without fear of injury. This feature is especially important for street skaters who frequently jump down stairs or gaps.
Tip: Customize Your Insoles
For maximum impact protection, especially when tackling big stairs or gaps, consider using extra padded aftermarket insoles. This can transform your favorite skate shoes into ultra-comfortable, protective gear without sacrificing style or board feel.
While many shoes come with built-in heel protection, you can enhance this further with aftermarket insoles. For maximum impact absorption, consider using extra padded insoles. These can transform your shoes into ultra-comfortable, protective gear that feels like “walking on a cloud.” .
- Nike and Converse: Zoom Air Bag heels
- Adidas: ADIPRENE® technology
- Aftermarket padded insoles for customized protection
- Combines style with essential safety features
This approach allows you to choose shoes that look great and have all the features you want, while still ensuring you have the heel protection necessary for safe and comfortable skating. It’s an excellent option if you find a pair of shoes you love that may not have the level of built-in cushioning you need for your skating style.
Insert a memory foam or gel insert for maximum impact absorption. These can transform your shoes into ultra-comfortable, protective gear that feels like “walking on a cloud.”tful quote from the article here.
citation
Toe caps and reinforcement
The toe area of a skate shoe typically experiences the most wear and tear, especially if you’re into flip tricks. To combat this, many brands have introduced toe caps – rubber strips that protect the high-wear areas of the shoe. This smart design ensures that even if holes develop in the upper, they expose rubber instead of your foot, effectively extending the shoe’s lifespan and keeping your feet protected. Types of toe reinforcement:
- External toe caps
- Rubber incorporated beneath the upper material
Tongue and fit innovations
A young that wont stay in place is really annoyign. To address this common annoyance, some skateboarding shoes now feature gusset tongues. These are designed with elastic gussets that connect the tongue to the midsole, providing a snug fit and keeping the tongue centered. Benefits of gusset tongues:
- Improved comfort
- Prevents tongue slippage
- Reduces distractions while skating
Popular skate shoe brands
After years of skating and trying out countless pairs, I’ve developed some strong opinions about skate shoe brands. Here’s my personal rundown of some top brands and what I think they’re best for:
- Vans: These are my go-to for everyday skating. I love their “Pro” models – the harder soles and double stitching really make a difference in durability. The Vans Sk8-Hi is my classic choice when I want that perfect board feel.
- Nike SB: When I’m hitting big stairs or gaps, I reach for my Nike SBs. The impact protection is unreal. I’ve found the Nike SB Janoski to be super versatile for both street and contest skating.
- Adidas Skateboarding: I was skeptical at first, but their soccer-inspired designs really work for skating. The Adidas Busenitz Pro has become my favorite for technical street skating – it’s durable and performs great.
- Emerica: When I want to really feel my board, I go for Emerica. Their slim profiles are perfect for precise flip tricks. The Emerica Reynolds G6 is my top pick from their line.
- DC Shoes: I’ll admit, I have a soft spot for the chunky DC designs. They remind me of my early skating days. The DC Lynx is still great for vert skating or when I’m feeling nostalgic.
- Lakai: These have surprised me with their durability. The Lakai Cambridge has become my go-to for filming days – they look sleek on camera and hold up well.
- New Balance Numeric: When my feet need a break, I turn to New Balance. The Numeric 440 is super comfortable for all-day sessions.
When I’m choosing a new pair, here’s what I consider:
- Sole Construction: I prefer vulcanized soles from Vans and Emerica for most of my skating. But when I know I’ll be doing a lot of high-impact tricks, I’ll switch to a cupsole like Nike SB or Adidas.
- Durability Features: I always check the toe area. After destroying countless pairs, I’ve learned to look for reinforced toes. Vans and Adidas have saved me a lot of money with their durable designs.
- Fit and Comfort: This is crucial for long sessions. I love the cushioning in Nike SB and New Balance, but for technical tricks, I prefer the close fit of Emerica.
- Style: Let’s be honest, looking good matters too. I usually go for the classic Vans look, but sometimes I’ll rock a pair of tech-looking Nike SBs to mix it up.
My advice? Don’t be afraid to experiment. What works for me might not work for you. I’ve found my favorites through trial and error, and that’s part of the fun. Try different brands, models, and styles until you find your perfect match.
Here’s a quick reference table of my favorite models from each brand:
| Brand | Signature Model | What I Use It For | Why I Like It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vans | Vans Sk8-Hi | Everyday skating | Classic style, great board feel |
| Nike SB | Nike SB Janoski | Big impacts, contests | Superior cushioning, versatile |
| Adidas Skateboarding | Adidas Busenitz Pro | Technical street | Durable, precise control |
| Emerica | Emerica Reynolds G6 | Flip tricks | Slim profile, board sensitivity |
| DC Shoes | DC Lynx | Vert, nostalgic sessions | Protective, old-school cool |
| Lakai | Lakai Cambridge | Filming days | Sleek look, surprising durability |
| New Balance Numeric | New Balance Numeric 440 | All-day sessions | Comfort for long hours |
Where and how to buy skate shoes
When it comes to buying skate shoes, you have several options. Here’s a guide to help you make the best purchase:
Where to Buy
- Local Skate Shops: Offer personalized advice and the ability to try on shoes. Support your local skating community.
- Online Skateboard Retailers: Websites like CCS, Tactics, or SkateWarehouse offer a wide selection and often have good deals.
- Brand Websites: Purchasing directly from Vans, Nike SB, Adidas, etc., can sometimes offer exclusive models or colorways.
- Specialty Sporting Goods Stores: Places like Zumiez often carry a good selection of skate shoes.
Tip: Avoid the big box stores
Try to avoid non-specialized stores like Walmart. These shoes typically lack the durability and features needed for skateboarding and can wear out quickly.
Remember, higher price doesn’t always mean better quality. Many professional skaters prefer mid-range shoes for their balance of durability and board feel. A good pair of skate shoes should last at least a month to a month and a half of regular skating.
One note on buying online. I’ve gone through all sorts of shoes, and one thing I can tell you is buying them online is not a good move. You really need to feel them! One word of caution: be wary of online purchases. I once bought a pair of Vans online that looked cool for the first week, but then gave me a crazy blister due to a weird factory defect. Nothing beats trying shoes on in person.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right skate shoe is a personal journey. What works for one skater might not work for another. Consider your skating style, the features you prioritize, and most importantly, how the shoe feels on your foot.
Remember, while having the right gear is important, it’s your skill and dedication that truly matter. After all, if someone can pull off incredible tricks in work boots, imagine what you can do with the right pair of skate shoes! Now get out there and skate — just maybe not in Timbs like I did!
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The lifespan of skate shoes varies depending on how often you skate and your style. Generally, replace your shoes every 1-3 months if you skate regularly. Watch for signs like holes in the suede, worn-out soles, or decreased board feel. Some skaters keep multiple pairs in rotation to extend their overall lifespan. A good pair should last at least a month to a month and a half of regular skating.
To break in new skate shoes, wear them casually for a few days before skating. This helps soften the material and mold the shoe to your foot shape. For faster break-in, try bending the sole back and forth gently. Vulcanized shoes typically break in faster than cupsoles. Remember, some discomfort is normal at first, but if you experience persistent pain or blisters, the shoe might not be the right fit for you.
