If you’ve ever been fascinated by the awe-inspiring tricks and adrenaline-fueled moves of professional skateboarders, then you must have noticed the sheer impact their choice of footwear has on their performance. Whether it’s nailing a kickflip or effortlessly gliding through the skatepark, the right pair of shoes can make or break their game. So, if you’re looking to step up your skateboarding skills, you’re probably wondering: can you recommend shoe brands popular among professional skateboarders? Look no further, my friend, as we dive into the world of elite skateboarders and reveal some of the trendiest and most trusted shoe brands that they swear by for that perfect ride. Skateboarding is not just a hobby, it’s a way of life. Whether you’re a casual skater or a professional skateboarder, having the right pair of skateboarding shoes is crucial. Skate shoes play a vital role in providing durability, flexibility, grip, cushioning, and style. In this article, we will dive into what to look for in skateboarding shoes and explore some of the top skateboarding shoe brands in the market.
What to Look for in Skateboarding Shoes
Durability
Skateboarding can be tough on shoes, so durability is key. Look for skate shoes that are made with high-quality materials such as suede or leather. These materials offer better resistance to wear and tear, ensuring that your shoes last longer. Reinforced areas in the shoe, such as the toe cap and ollie area, can also enhance durability and protect against abrasion.
Flexibility
Skateboarding requires a great deal of foot movement, so it’s important to choose shoes that offer flexibility. Look for shoes with a flexible sole that allows your feet to move naturally and easily. This flexibility not only improves your overall performance on the skateboard but also helps prevent injuries.
Grip
Grip is essential for skateboarders to maintain control and prevent slipping. Look for skate shoes with a grippy outsole made of rubber or gum. The tread pattern on the outsole should have deep grooves that provide excellent traction on the skateboard deck. A good grip will allow you to execute tricks with confidence, even on slippery surfaces.
Cushioning
Skateboarding involves a lot of impact and landing tricks can be hard on your feet and joints. That’s why cushioning is crucial in skate shoes. Look for shoes with ample padding in the insole and heel area to provide shock absorption and support. This will help reduce the risk of injuries and keep your feet comfortable during long skate sessions.
Style
Skateboarding shoes are not only functional but also a fashion statement. Choose a style that reflects your personal taste and adds a touch of flair to your skateboarding outfit. With endless designs and color options available, you can find shoes that not only perform well but also make you stand out on the skateboard.
Now that we’ve covered what to look for in skateboarding shoes, let’s explore some of the top skateboarding shoe brands that are popular among professional skateboarders.
Top Skateboarding Shoe Brands
Nike SB
Nike SB is a powerhouse in the skateboarding shoe industry. With a reputation for quality and innovation, Nike SB has become a favorite among professional skateboarders worldwide. They offer a wide range of skate shoes that combine style and functionality seamlessly.
History and Reputation
Nike SB was launched in 2002 as an extension of the original Nike brand. Since then, they have been dedicated to designing and manufacturing skate shoes that meet the demands of skateboarders. Their commitment to quality and performance has earned them a solid reputation in the skateboarding community.
Popular Nike SB Models
Some popular Nike SB models include the Nike SB Dunk Low, Nike SB Janoski, and Nike SB Stefan Janoski Max. These shoes are known for their excellent durability, comfort, and style.
Features and Technologies
Nike SB incorporates innovative technologies into their skate shoes to enhance performance. One notable technology is the Zoom Air cushioning system, which provides responsive shock absorption and improved boardfeel. The Hyperfeel technology also offers a closer connection to the skateboard, allowing for better control and responsiveness.
Vans
Vans is another iconic brand that has made a significant impact in the skateboarding shoe industry. Known for their classic style and functionality, Vans has a loyal following among skateboarders.
History and Reputation
Vans was founded in 1966, making it one of the oldest skateboarding shoe brands in the market. They quickly gained popularity among skateboarders due to their durable construction and sticky outsoles. Vans has since become a symbol of skateboarding culture and continues to produce high-quality skate shoes.
Popular Vans Models
The Vans Old Skool, Vans Sk8-Hi, and Vans Authentic are some of the most popular models from Vans. These shoes are recognized for their timeless design, excellent grip, and durability.
Features and Technologies
Vans shoes are known for their vulcanized construction, which offers exceptional boardfeel and flexibility. The signature waffle outsole provides excellent grip on the skateboard, ensuring that you never lose control. Additionally, Vans offers cushioning technologies such as UltraCush and ComfyCush, which provide enhanced comfort and impact protection.
Adidas
Adidas is a globally recognized brand that has made significant strides in the skateboarding shoe industry. Their combination of style, comfort, and performance has made them a favorite among skateboarders.
History and Reputation
Adidas entered the skateboarding market in 2006, bringing their expertise in athletic footwear to the skateboarding world. They have since gained a reputation for producing high-quality skate shoes that deliver excellent performance.
Popular Adidas Models
Adidas offers a range of popular skate shoes, including the Adidas Busenitz, Adidas Matchcourt, and Adidas 3MC. These shoes are known for their sleek design, durability, and versatility.
Features and Technologies
Adidas incorporates innovative technologies into their skate shoes to enhance performance. The Adiprene cushioning system provides superior impact protection, while the grippy outsoles offer excellent traction. Additionally, Adidas uses durable materials such as suede and synthetic leather to ensure their shoes withstand the rigors of skateboarding.
Emerica
Emerica is a brand that is deeply rooted in skateboarding culture. Known for their durable and stylish skate shoes, Emerica has built a strong following among skateboarders.
History and Reputation
Emerica was founded in 1996 by professional skateboarder Pierre André Senizergues. The brand quickly gained popularity due to their commitment to producing high-quality, durable skate shoes that meet the needs of skateboarders.
Popular Emerica Models
Some popular Emerica models include the Emerica Reynolds, Emerica Romero, and Emerica Wino G6. These shoes are praised for their durability, impact protection, and comfortable fit.
Features and Technologies
Emerica incorporates advanced technology into their skate shoes to enhance performance. The G6 foam insole provides excellent cushioning and impact absorption, while the Triangle Tread outsole offers exceptional grip. Additionally, Emerica uses durable materials such as suede and canvas to ensure their shoes can withstand the demands of skateboarding.
DC
DC is a brand that has been synonymous with skateboarding for decades. They are known for producing high-quality skate shoes that provide both durability and style.
History and Reputation
DC was founded in 1994 by professional skateboarder Ken Block and entrepreneur Damon Way. Since its inception, DC has been dedicated to designing and manufacturing skate shoes that meet the demands of skateboarders. Their commitment to skateboarding culture has earned them a loyal following.
Popular DC Models
Popular DC models include the DC Kalis, DC Plaza, and DC Legacy. These shoes are recognized for their durability, superior grip, and sleek design.
Features and Technologies
DC incorporates innovative technologies into their skate shoes to enhance performance. The Impact-I cushioning system provides excellent impact protection and comfort, while the Pill Pattern tread offers optimal grip on the skateboard. Additionally, DC uses high-quality materials such as leather and suede, ensuring their shoes withstand the rigors of skateboarding.
Converse
Converse is a brand that has been a part of skateboarding history for decades. Their classic style and functionality have made them a staple in the skateboarding community.
History and Reputation
Converse has been around since 1908, and they made their mark in the skateboarding world in the 1970s. Their Chuck Taylor All Star shoes quickly became popular among skateboarders due to their flat soles and durable construction. Converse has since continued to embrace skateboarding culture and produce skate shoes that meet the demands of skateboarders.
Popular Converse Models
The Converse One Star, Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Pro, and Converse CTAS Pro are popular models among skateboarders. These shoes are known for their timeless style, excellent grip, and durability.
Features and Technologies
Converse skate shoes are designed with functionality in mind. They feature durable construction, reinforced toe caps, and sticky rubber outsoles that provide exceptional grip on the skateboard. Converse also offers cushioning technologies such as Lunarlon and OrthoLite, which provide enhanced comfort and impact protection.
New Balance Numeric
New Balance Numeric is a brand that has made a name for itself in the skateboarding world. With their focus on quality and performance, they have gained recognition among professional skateboarders.
History and Reputation
New Balance Numeric, the skateboarding division of New Balance, was launched in 2013. Despite being a relatively new player in the market, New Balance Numeric has quickly gained a reputation for producing skate shoes that provide excellent performance and durability.
Popular New Balance Numeric Models
Popular New Balance Numeric models include the New Balance Numeric 255, New Balance Numeric 306, and New Balance Numeric 533. These shoes are known for their durability, comfort, and sleek design.
Features and Technologies
New Balance Numeric incorporates advanced technologies into their skate shoes to enhance performance. The REVlite cushioning system provides lightweight cushioning and impact absorption, while the N-Durance rubber outsoles offer exceptional grip and durability. Additionally, New Balance Numeric uses high-quality materials such as suede and leather, ensuring their shoes can withstand the demands of skateboarding.
HUF
HUF is a brand that has gained a loyal following among skateboarders due to their unique style and functional skate shoes.
History and Reputation
HUF was founded in 2002 by professional skateboarder Keith Hufnagel. The brand quickly gained popularity for its unique streetwear-inspired style and commitment to skateboarding culture. HUF skate shoes have become a favorite among skateboarders looking for both style and performance.
Popular HUF Models
Some popular HUF models include the HUF Soto, HUF Classic Hi, and HUF Cromer. These shoes are praised for their durability, comfort, and distinctive design.
Features and Technologies
HUF skate shoes feature durable construction and vulcanized outsoles for excellent boardfeel and flexibility. The insoles offer cushioning and impact protection, while the grippy outsoles provide excellent traction on the skateboard. HUF also uses high-quality materials such as suede and canvas, ensuring their shoes can withstand the demands of skateboarding.
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing skateboarding shoes, it’s important to consider factors such as durability, flexibility, grip, cushioning, and style. The top skateboarding shoe brands, including Nike SB, Vans, Adidas, Emerica, DC, Converse, New Balance Numeric, and HUF, have established themselves as leaders in the industry by providing high-quality skate shoes that meet the demands of skateboarders. By selecting the right pair of skate shoes from these brands, you can enhance your skateboarding performance while staying stylish on and off the skateboard.