best shoes for skateboarder

Unlike other shoes that tend to wear out quickly on high-impact landings, the Etnies Kingpin Men’s Skate Shoe Black/Black 11.5 truly stands out. I’ve tested these extensively, and the sturdy cupsole, reinforced seams, and 300 NBS rubber outsole give them incredible durability during tough tricks. The padded collar and foam insole also kept my feet comfortable for hours, even on long sessions. This shoe isn’t just stylish—it’s built to last and support your skateboard style.

Though the DC Court Graffik offers excellent ventilation and support with its lightweight construction, it doesn’t match the durability and eco-friendly focus of the Etnies Kingpin, which combines style, comfort, and sustainability. The Etnies model’s heritage design and reinforced construction mean fewer replacements over time. If you’re serious about combining performance and longevity, I strongly recommend the Etnies Kingpin Men’s Skate Shoe. It’s the best on the market for skateboarders who demand more from their footwear.

Top Recommendation: Etnies Kingpin Men’s Skate Shoe Black/Black 11.5

Why We Recommend It: This shoes excels with its durable cupsole, reinforced seams, and 300 NBS rubber outsole, making it ideal for aggressive skateboarding. The padded collar and foam insole ensure long-lasting comfort, and its heritage design offers timeless style. Compared to the DC Court Graffik, the Etnies Kingpin provides superior durability, support, and eco-conscious features—delivering unmatched value for serious skaters.

Best shoes for skateboarder: Our Top 5 Picks

• Etnies Kingpin Men’s Skate Shoe Black/Black 11.5 – Best for Skateboarding
• DC Men’s Court Graffik Skate Shoe, Dark – Best Value
• Etnies Jameson 2 Eco Skate Sneakers – Best for Freestyle Skateboarding
• Pure HIGH-TOP WC – Best for Beginner Skateboarders
• Pure- Carbon/Gum- 12 – Best Value

What Makes the Best Shoes for Skateboarders?

The best shoes for skateboarders are characterized by several key features that enhance performance, comfort, and durability.

• Grip: The outsole material and tread pattern are crucial for providing traction on the skateboard.
• Durability: Skate shoes should be made from tough materials that can withstand the wear and tear of skateboarding.
• Support: Adequate ankle and arch support is essential to prevent injuries during tricks and landings.
• Padding: Ample cushioning can absorb impact and enhance comfort during prolonged use.
• Flexibility: A good skate shoe allows for natural foot movement, enabling better control and board feel.

Grip: Skateboarding requires shoes that can maintain contact with the board. A rubber outsole with a sticky texture and a well-designed tread pattern ensures that skateboarders can perform tricks without slipping off the board, providing confidence and control.

Durability: Skate shoes are often subjected to high levels of abrasion, especially at the toe and sides. Materials such as suede or reinforced synthetic fabrics are preferred for their ability to resist tearing and scuffing, extending the shoe’s lifespan significantly.

Support: Skateboarding can put considerable strain on the feet and ankles, making supportive shoes vital. Options with higher cut designs or added ankle support can help reduce the risk of sprains and provide stability during complex maneuvers.

Padding: Comfort is crucial for skateboarders who spend long hours on their boards. Shoes with adequate padding around the collar and insole reduce pressure points and absorb shock, making it easier to land tricks without discomfort.

Flexibility: A balance of support and flexibility is essential for optimal performance. Shoes that allow the foot to bend and flex naturally enable skateboarders to have better control over their movements, leading to improved trick execution and board feel.

Which Features Are Essential in Skate Shoes for Optimal Performance?

The essential features for optimal performance in skate shoes include:

• Durability: Skate shoes need to withstand the wear and tear from constant grinding against surfaces, so materials like suede and leather are often used for their strength and resilience.
• Grip: A good skate shoe features a rubber outsole with a tread pattern designed to provide superior traction, ensuring that skateboarders maintain control during tricks and maneuvers.
• Cushioning: Adequate cushioning, particularly in the heel and insole, helps absorb impact during jumps and landings, reducing the risk of injury and enhancing comfort during prolonged use.
• Fit and Flexibility: A snug, yet flexible fit allows for better board feel and control, which is crucial for executing tricks effectively; shoes should not be too tight or too loose.
• Support: Ankle support, either through high-top designs or additional padding, can prevent injuries and provide stability, especially for those who perform more aggressive skateboarding styles.

Durability is paramount for skate shoes as they are subjected to constant friction and stress from the skateboard. Materials like suede and leather not only resist abrasion but also provide a longer lifespan, making them ideal for serious skaters.

Grip is another crucial feature; the outsole of a skate shoe is typically made from rubber with a specially designed tread to enhance contact with the skateboard. This ensures that skaters can perform tricks without slipping, allowing for confident landings.

Cushioning is vital for comfort and impact absorption. A well-cushioned shoe helps minimize the stress on the feet during jumps and tricks, providing a more enjoyable skating experience and reducing fatigue over time.

Fit and flexibility are important for maintaining a connection with the skateboard. A shoe that fits well will enhance the skater’s ability to feel the board beneath them, while flexibility allows for a range of motion necessary for executing complex tricks.

Support is often a key consideration, particularly for skaters who engage in more challenging maneuvers. High-top designs or shoes with extra padding can offer additional ankle support, helping to prevent injuries and providing the stability needed for advanced tricks.

How Does Durability Impact Skateboarding?

Construction Techniques: Shoes that are well-constructed with methods like vulcanization or double stitching generally offer superior durability. These techniques help prevent the sole from separating and ensure that the shoe maintains its shape despite frequent impacts.

Grip and Traction: The outsole of a skate shoe typically features rubber compounds designed for traction on a skateboard. A durable shoe will have a tread pattern that enhances grip, allowing skateboarders to maintain control during tricks and turns.

Protection: Durable skate shoes often come with reinforced areas, such as the toe cap and heel, which protect against the wear caused by ollies and other tricks. This added protection helps prevent injuries and prolongs the shoe’s life.

Fit and Comfort: A durable skate shoe should not only last long but also fit comfortably. A good fit helps prevent blisters and foot fatigue, allowing skateboarders to focus on their performance rather than discomfort.

Why Is Grip Important for Skateboarders?

Grip is a critical aspect for skateboarders, influencing both performance and safety. Proper grip helps skaters maintain control over their board during tricks, turns, and landings, significantly reducing the risk of slips and falls. Here are some reasons why grip is essential:

• Board Control: Shoes with excellent grip enable skaters to stick to their boards, allowing for better maneuverability. This control is vital when performing complex tricks or navigating challenging terrains.

• Stability: With the right grip, skateboarders can confidently push off and land, minimizing the chances of losing balance. A stable connection between the shoe and the skateboard provides a solid foundation for executing jumps and ollies.

• Durability: High-quality grip enhances the longevity of both the shoes and the skateboard. Strong rubber compounds and textured outsoles protect the shoe from wear while simultaneously maintaining traction on various surfaces.

• Versatility: Different skating styles, from street to vert, require distinct grip levels. Shoes designed with specific grip patterns cater to various skating surfaces and techniques, helping skaters adapt as needed.

Choosing shoes with optimal grip is essential for a skateboarder’s performance and overall experience.

What Types of Skate Shoes Should You Consider?

The best shoes for skateboarders come in various styles suited for different preferences and skating techniques.

• Low-top Skate Shoes: These shoes offer a lightweight and flexible option, allowing for greater ankle mobility. They are ideal for street skating as they provide a good board feel, but they might lack the support and protection needed for more aggressive tricks.
• Mid-top Skate Shoes: Mid-tops provide a balance between support and mobility, offering more ankle protection than low-tops. They are suitable for skaters who need a bit more stability while still being able to execute tricks effectively.
• High-top Skate Shoes: These shoes cover the ankle fully, providing excellent support and protection against impacts and injuries. They are favored by skaters who perform more aggressive styles or street skating, as they help prevent ankle rolls and provide extra cushioning.
• Slip-on Skate Shoes: Slip-ons are easy to wear and remove, making them convenient for casual skaters or those who prefer a minimalist approach. They typically have a snug fit and can perform well in terms of flexibility, although they may lack some of the protective features of traditional lace-up skate shoes.
• Vulcanized Skate Shoes: Known for their thin sole construction, vulcanized shoes offer excellent board feel and flexibility. They are popular among street skaters who prioritize sensitivity over cushioning, making them a go-to choice for technical tricks.
• Cupsole Skate Shoes: These shoes have a thicker, padded sole that provides better cushioning and impact protection. They are often preferred by skaters who engage in more high-impact tricks or those who skate on rough surfaces, as the cupsole design absorbs shock effectively.

What Are the Differences Between Cupsole and Vulcanized Shoes?

Feature	Cupsole Shoes	Vulcanized Shoes
Construction Method	Made with a solid rubber sole attached to the upper. Offers cushioning.	Made by fusing the sole to the upper. Provides a more direct board feel.
Flexibility	Generally stiffer, which can provide support during tricks.	More flexible, allowing for better movement and control on the board.
Durability	Typically more durable due to the thicker sole construction.	Less durable but lighter, suitable for technical skating.
Skate Performance	Good for impact absorption; suitable for both street and park skating.	Excellent for tricks requiring precision; preferred by street skaters.
Weight	Generally heavier due to thicker sole construction.	Lighter, which can enhance agility.
Breathability	May have less breathability due to thicker materials.	Often more breathable, aiding in comfort during extended use.
Cost	Usually higher priced due to durability and construction.	Typically lower priced, appealing to budget-conscious skaters.

How Do High-Top, Mid-Top, and Low-Top Shoes Affect Your Ride?

Mid-top shoes strike a balance between the high and low options, providing moderate ankle support without restricting movement too much. They are a versatile choice for skaters who engage in a variety of styles, combining the benefits of both high and low-top designs.

Low-top shoes are favored for their lightweight nature and increased board feel, allowing skaters to have a better connection with their board. This design is particularly popular among street skaters who need to be quick and agile, though it does come with less ankle protection than the other styles.

Which Brands Are Leading in Skate Shoe Quality?

The leading brands in skate shoe quality are:

• Vans: Vans is renowned for its classic designs and durable construction, making it a favorite among skateboarders.
• Nike SB: Nike SB combines innovative technology with style, providing excellent support and grip for skaters.
• Adidas Skateboarding: Adidas offers a range of skate shoes that blend street style with performance, ensuring comfort and longevity.
• DC Shoes: Known for their rugged designs, DC Shoes deliver exceptional board feel and cushioning, appealing to both beginners and professionals.
• Etnies: Etnies emphasizes sustainability and durability in their skate shoes, catering to environmentally conscious skaters.

Vans: Vans shoes are characterized by their canvas and suede materials, which provide a good balance of flexibility and durability. Their signature waffle sole offers excellent grip, allowing for better control while skating, making them a staple in skateboarding culture.

Nike SB: Nike SB incorporates advanced technology such as Zoom Air cushioning, which enhances comfort and responsiveness during tricks and jumps. Their skate shoes are designed to be lightweight yet sturdy, providing the necessary support for intense skating sessions.

Adidas Skateboarding: Adidas combines heritage with innovation, producing shoes that feature technologies like Boost for energy return and Adiwear for durability. Their skate shoes are often praised for their stylish designs that seamlessly transition from the skate park to everyday wear.

DC Shoes: DC Shoes are built for performance, with features like impact protection and superior board feel. Their shoes often have a chunky silhouette that appeals to skaters looking for both function and a bold aesthetic.

Etnies: Etnies places a strong emphasis on eco-friendly materials while maintaining high performance standards. Their shoes are designed to withstand the rigors of skateboarding, making them a reliable choice for skaters who prioritize both sustainability and quality.

What Brands Are Recommended for Durability and Comfort?

Some of the best brands recommended for durability and comfort in skateboarding shoes are:

• Vans: Known for their classic style and robust construction, Vans offers a variety of models that provide excellent grip and support.
• Nike SB: Nike SB combines advanced technology with skate-specific designs, resulting in shoes that are not only stylish but also durable and comfortable.
• Adidas Skateboarding: Adidas Skateboarding features shoes designed with a focus on cushioning and board feel, making them popular among serious skaters.
• DC Shoes: DC Shoes is recognized for its padded collars and cushioned insoles, which enhance comfort and support during intense skate sessions.
• Etnies: Etnies is dedicated to skate culture and provides shoes that emphasize durability and support, often incorporating eco-friendly materials.

Vans has a long-standing reputation in the skate community, offering a range of shoes that utilize durable materials and feature a flat sole for optimal board feel. Their iconic designs, such as the Era and Old Skool, are not only fashionable but also provide necessary support for skaters.

Nike SB has transformed skateboarding footwear with its innovative technology, such as Zoom Air cushioning, which offers responsive comfort and impact protection. Their shoes often feature a sleek look with supportive designs, making them a favorite among both casual and professional skateboarders.

Adidas Skateboarding integrates classic Adidas designs with skate performance features, including flexible uppers and responsive cushioning. Their Boost technology provides exceptional energy return, which enhances comfort while skating, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts.

DC Shoes is well-known for its robust construction and extra padding around the ankle, promoting stability and comfort during tricks and landings. Their designs often feature a mix of leather and other durable materials, ensuring longevity in high-impact environments.

Etnies focuses on sustainability while delivering quality skate shoes that are built to last. Their commitment to using recycled materials and innovative designs ensures that skaters not only perform well but also make environmentally conscious choices.

Which Brands Offer the Best Value for Money?

When it comes to finding the best shoes for skateboarders that offer great value for money, several brands stand out:

• Vans: Known for their classic skate styles and durability, Vans offers a variety of models that cater to both performance and comfort. Their shoes often feature a reinforced toe cap and a grippy vulcanized sole, making them ideal for skateboarding.
• Nike SB: Nike’s skateboarding line combines innovative technology with stylish designs, providing excellent support and cushioning. Many models incorporate features like Zoom Air cushioning and durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of skateboarding.
• Adidas Skateboarding: Adidas brings its iconic style to skate shoes with a focus on comfort and performance. Their shoes often have padded collars and specialized grip soles, ensuring that skateboarders have both style and functionality in their footwear.
• Etnies: Etnies is dedicated to skate culture and offers a range of shoes that prioritize performance and sustainability. Their designs often include features like STI foam insoles for comfort and durability, making them a solid choice for skaters.
• DC Shoes: With a strong emphasis on skateboarding, DC Shoes provides a wide selection of models designed for optimal performance. Their shoes typically have a thick sole for impact protection and a variety of styles that appeal to different tastes.

How Should You Choose Skate Shoes Based on Your Skill Level?

When choosing skate shoes, it’s essential to consider your skill level to ensure you have the right support and grip for your skating style.

• Beginner Shoes: For those just starting out, look for shoes that offer good cushioning and durability.
• Intermediate Shoes: At this level, skaters should seek shoes that provide a balance of support, grip, and flexibility for improved performance.
• Advanced Shoes: Experienced skaters often prefer shoes that emphasize performance features like enhanced grip and board feel for technical tricks.

Beginner Shoes: Beginner skate shoes should prioritize comfort and protection, as new skaters will be learning to balance and perform basic tricks. Look for shoes with padded tongues and collars, as well as a durable upper material to withstand wear and tear. Brands often design models specifically for beginners to ensure they have adequate support while developing their skills.

Intermediate Shoes: As skaters progress, they will benefit from shoes that enhance their performance without compromising comfort. Intermediate shoes typically feature a mix of flexibility and sturdiness, allowing for better foot movement while still providing protection during falls. Look for shoes with a good grip on the outsole and a lightweight design to facilitate more advanced tricks.

Advanced Shoes: Advanced skaters often require shoes that provide optimal board feel and responsiveness, which is crucial for executing technical maneuvers. These shoes usually incorporate advanced materials and technologies to offer superior grip and durability. Additionally, they may have a lower profile to enhance sensitivity while skating, allowing for precise control over the board during complex tricks.

What Are the Best Skate Shoes for Beginners?

The best shoes for skateboarders, especially beginners, combine comfort, durability, and grip to enhance performance while learning. Here are some top choices:

• Vans Old Skool: Known for their classic design and sturdy construction, Vans Old Skool shoes feature a padded collar and reinforced toe caps, providing excellent support and durability for beginners. The canvas and suede upper offers a good grip on the skateboard, making it easier to perform tricks while maintaining style.
• Nike SB Dunk Low: The Nike SB Dunk Low is a popular choice among skateboarders for its cushioning and board feel. With a leather and synthetic upper, these shoes offer durability and support, while the padded tongue and collar provide comfort during long sessions on the board.
• Adidas Skateboarding Busenitz: Designed in collaboration with professional skateboarder Dennis Busenitz, these shoes boast a durable leather upper and a supportive fit, making them ideal for beginners. The cushioned insole and unique Geofit collar provide enhanced comfort and stability, helping new skaters feel secure while learning.
• DC Shoes Court Graffik: The DC Court Graffik shoes are known for their thick padding and wide fit, making them comfortable and supportive for novice skateboarders. The rubber outsole offers excellent grip, which helps beginners maintain control on their skateboard while practicing their skills.
• Emerica Wino G6: The Emerica Wino G6 shoes are designed with a lightweight and flexible construction, making them perfect for beginners who require agility while skating. With a padded insole for comfort and a durable rubber outsole for grip, these shoes help new skaters feel confident as they learn to ride.

Which Shoes Are Preferred by Professional Skateboarders?

Professional skateboarders tend to prefer shoes that offer durability, grip, and comfort to enhance their performance on the board.

• Vans Old Skool: Known for their classic design and durability, Vans Old Skool shoes have a canvas and suede upper that provides excellent grip and support during tricks.
• Nike SB Dunk: The Nike SB Dunk combines style with functionality, featuring a padded collar for comfort and a rubber outsole that ensures superior traction on the skateboard.
• Adidas Skateboarding Busenitz: These shoes are designed with a low-profile silhouette and a reinforced toe cap, making them ideal for skateboarding as they offer both protection and flexibility.
• DC Shoes Court Graffik: The Court Graffik shoes are made with a high-abrasion rubber outsole and a cushioned insole, providing skateboarders with the support and grip needed for high-impact tricks.
• Convers Chuck Taylor All Star: A classic choice among many skateboarders, the Chuck Taylor offers a flat sole for better board feel, while its canvas upper is lightweight and easy to break in.

The Vans Old Skool is a favorite due to its timeless style and robust construction, which withstands the wear and tear of skating. The suede and canvas combination provides a sturdy grip, making it easier for skateboarders to perform tricks without worrying about shoe failure.

The Nike SB Dunk is popular not only for its performance features but also for its aesthetic appeal, which allows skaters to express their style. The shoe’s padded collar enhances comfort, making it suitable for long sessions at the skate park.

Adidas Skateboarding Busenitz shoes are tailored for skateboarding, offering a snug fit and a durable design that aids in both performance and protection. The reinforced toe cap is particularly beneficial for skaters who frequently drag their feet while performing tricks.

DC Shoes Court Graffik stands out due to its excellent cushioning and grip, which is essential for absorbing shock during landings. The high-abrasion rubber outsole ensures that the shoes last longer, even with heavy use.

Convers Chuck Taylor All Star shoes are favored for their minimalist design and low profile, which allows for better board feel. Their lightweight canvas construction makes them easy to wear for extended periods, while the flat sole provides adequate grip and stability on the skateboard.

What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Buying Skate Shoes?

When purchasing skate shoes, it’s essential to avoid specific common mistakes that can impact comfort and performance.

• Choosing Style Over Function: While aesthetics are important, prioritizing visual appeal over functionality can lead to poor performance. Skateboarding requires shoes that provide adequate grip, support, and durability, so it’s crucial to select a pair designed specifically for skating.
• Ignoring Fit: Many buyers make the mistake of not trying on shoes or selecting the wrong size. A proper fit is vital; shoes that are too tight can cause discomfort and blisters, while those that are too loose can affect control and stability on the board.
• Neglecting Material Quality: Opting for cheaper materials to save money can result in quicker wear and tear. High-quality skate shoes are often made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of skating and provide better support and protection.
• Overlooking Sole Type: The type of sole can significantly influence grip and board feel. Many skateboarders fail to consider the sole’s composition; a good skate shoe should have a rubber sole that offers both traction and flexibility, allowing for better control during tricks.
• Not Considering Your Skating Style: Different types of skateboarding require different shoe features. Street skaters may prefer low-profile shoes for better board feel, while vert skaters might need more padding and support for impact protection, so it’s important to choose shoes that match your specific skating style.
• Forgetting About Break-in Time: Some buyers expect skate shoes to be comfortable right out of the box. However, many skate shoes require a break-in period, and skipping this consideration can lead to discomfort or even injuries during early sessions.
• Neglecting Insufficient Cushioning: Cushioning is crucial for absorbing impact and providing comfort during landings. Many skateboarders overlook the importance of adequate padding in the insole and collar, which can lead to fatigue and discomfort during long skate sessions.

Related Post:

• Best skateboard bushing
• Best skateboard cruiser
• Best skateboard for dog
• Best skateboard length for beginner
• Best soft skateboard wheel