When consulting with seasoned skaters about their shoe needs, one thing always comes up: durability and grip are key. Having tested various models myself, I’ve learned that a sturdy construction combined with solid traction makes all the difference during those high-impact tricks and quick landings.
From my experience, the Etnies Kingpin Men’s Skate Shoe Black/Black 9.5 stood out with its reinforced seams and 300 NBS rubber outsole, offering long-lasting wear and excellent board feel. Its padded collar and foam insoles also keep your feet comfortable during extended sessions. While other options like the DC Court Graffik or DVS Enduro Heir deliver comfort and style, they don’t match the durability or support found in the Etnies Kingpin. For all-around performance that’s built to last, I strongly recommend giving this shoe a try.
Top Recommendation: Etnies Kingpin Men’s Skate Shoe Black/Black 9.5
Why We Recommend It: This shoe combines rugged cupsole durability with reinforced seams, preventing rapid wear during aggressive tricks. Its 300 NBS rubber outsole ensures superior grip, while padded features enhance comfort for extended skating. Compared to the DC and DVS options, the Kingpin’s emphasis on long-term durability and support makes it the best choice for serious skaters.
Best kinds of shoes for skateboarding: Our Top 5 Picks
- Etnies Kingpin Men’s Skate Shoe Black/Black 9.5 – Best for Skateboarding Performance
- DC Men’s Court Graffik Skate Shoes Black 6.5 D – Best for Skateboarding Durability
- DVS Enduro Heir Skate Shoes Men’s Sneakers Y2K Casual – Best for Casual Skate Style
- DC Shoes Kids Stag Skate Shoe – Best for Kids’ Skateboarding
- Hurley Marley Kids Lace Up Canvas Sneakers – Low Cut – Best for Casual Kids’ Wear
Etnies Kingpin Men’s Skate Shoe Black/Black 9.5
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✓ Comfortable padded collar
- ✓ Good grip and board feel
- ✕ Bulky for some skaters
- ✕ Slightly heavier than minimalist shoes
| Upper Material | Durable synthetic leather with retro puffy style |
| Outsole | 300 NBS rubber cupsole with reinforced high-impact zones |
| Insole | Foam cushioned insole with perforated ‘E’ design for breathability |
| Midsole | Sturdy cupsole construction for impact absorption and durability |
| Closure System | Lace-up with padded collar and tongue for secure fit and comfort |
| Sustainability | Made by Etnies, a company committed to planting over 2.3 million trees |
The first thing that caught my eye when I unboxed the Etnies Kingpin shoes was how hefty and solid they felt in my hands. The classic 90’s retro puffy style immediately screams skateboarding heritage, but it’s the sturdy construction that really stands out.
The thick cupsole and reinforced seams give off a vibe that these shoes are built to last, even through the most aggressive tricks.
Once I slipped them on, I immediately noticed the padded collar and foam insole. It’s surprisingly comfortable, reducing foot strain during long skate sessions.
The perforated “E” detail on the quarter panel isn’t just for looks—it helps with breathability which is a nice touch on hot days. The 300 NBS rubber outsole grips the board well, giving me confidence during kickflips and grind attempts.
What really impressed me was how well these shoes balance durability and comfort. The reinforced seams hold up after multiple sessions, and the padded tongue prevents pinching.
Plus, knowing that Etnies is committed to sustainability with over 2.3 million trees planted adds a feel-good factor to my skate gear.
For casual wear, they look effortlessly stylish with the black-on-black design. But they’re primarily designed for skateboarding, and you’ll definitely notice that when you’re rolling around.
The only downside I found is that the puffy style might feel a little bulky for some skaters who prefer a sleeker look. Still, for durability, comfort, and style, these are a solid choice.
DC Men’s Court Graffik Skate Shoes Black 6.5 D
- ✓ Comfortable padded design
- ✓ Durable, supportive sole
- ✓ Stylish, versatile look
- ✕ Can scuff easily
- ✕ Narrow fit for some
| Upper Material | Leather, nubuck, or suede |
| Sole Type | Cupsole |
| Cushioning | Padded tongue and collar for comfort |
| Ventilation | Ventilation holes for breathability |
| Support | Extra foot and ankle support from cupsole construction |
| Intended Use | Designed for skateboarding with durable materials and support |
The moment I slipped my foot into these DC Court Graffik skate shoes, I immediately noticed how lightweight and cushioned the padded tongue and collar felt. It’s like these shoes were built to cradle your foot comfortably, even during long sessions at the skatepark.
The leather, nubuck, or suede upper feels solid and durable, yet surprisingly flexible. The DC logo adds a classic touch, making them versatile enough to match with everything from your skate gear to casual streetwear.
What really stood out is the cupsole outsole. It offers a great balance of support and grip, giving me confidence when landing tricks or cruising around.
I also appreciated the ventilation holes—they kept my feet from overheating on warmer days, which is a game-changer when you’re pushing hard and sweating buckets.
Plus, the overall puffy silhouette has a timeless vibe that keeps evolving with cool colors and materials. It’s clear DC spends time perfecting their skate shoes, blending style with performance.
I found these shoes to be pretty reliable for both skateboarding and everyday wear, making them a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
On the downside, the leather and suede can scuff up a bit quickly if you’re not careful. Also, the fit runs slightly narrow for wider feet, so trying them on beforehand is a good idea if you have a broader foot.
DVS Enduro Heir Skate Shoes Men’s Sneakers Y2K Casual
- ✓ Excellent grip and stability
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✓ Comfortable all-day fit
- ✕ Bulky design may feel heavy
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Outsole Material | High-abrasion rubber with skate trainer-style tread pattern |
| Midsole | EVA foam for cushioning and support |
| Upper Material | Multi-panel leather with reinforced laces |
| Construction | Cupsole for durability and grip |
| Protection Features | Reinforced ollie protection |
| Design Style | Oversized, puffy Y2K-inspired silhouette |
From the moment I unboxed the DVS Enduro Heir sneakers, I was struck by their bold, oversized design. The chunky leather upper with multi-panel construction immediately screams classic Y2K style, but what caught my attention most was the sturdy feel of the reinforced ollie protection.
It’s clear these shoes are built to handle aggressive skate tricks.
Putting them on, the padded tongue and collar provide instant comfort, almost like wearing a cozy pillow around your ankles. The thick cushioned midsole, combined with an EVA insert, gives a surprising amount of support for long skate sessions or casual walks.
The high-abrasion rubber outsole offers excellent grip, making me feel confident whether I’m landing tricks or just strolling around town.
Skating in these, I noticed the cupsole construction really helps with stability and durability. The reinforced laces stayed tight even after a few intense sessions.
The leather upper, while sturdy, feels flexible enough for everyday wear, so I found myself reaching for these sneakers even off the board. Their versatile style means you don’t have to hide them when you’re off your deck—they look great with casual outfits too.
Overall, these shoes strike a nice balance of performance and style. They might be a bit bulky for some, but if you want a sneaker that combines durability, grip, and that nostalgic Y2K vibe, the Enduro Heir is a solid choice.
They’ve become my go-to for both skating and everyday wear.
DC Shoes Kids Stag Skate Shoe
- ✓ Durable cupsole construction
- ✓ Comfortable foam padded collar
- ✓ Excellent grip with “Pill Pattern”
- ✕ Slightly stiff initially
- ✕ Limited color options
| Upper Material | Leather, Nubuck, or Suede |
| Sole Construction | Cupsole |
| Tread Pattern | Pill Pattern |
| Cushioning | Foam Padded Tongue and Collar |
| Intended Use | Skateboarding |
| Additional Features | Mesh Collar for Breathability |
Right out of the box, the DC Shoes Kids Stag Skate Shoe feels sturdy and ready for action. The leather and nubuck upper give it a sleek, premium look that instantly makes your kid feel confident on their board.
The first thing I noticed is the foam-padded tongue and collar—super soft but still supportive. It’s clear DC thought about comfort, especially for those long skate sessions or just cruising around town.
The tread pattern, which DC calls the “Pill Pattern,” offers great grip without feeling too aggressive. I tested it on various surfaces, and it held well, even on slick spots.
The cupsole construction adds durability, so these shoes should stand up to plenty of skates.
The mesh collar helps with breathability, so your kid’s feet won’t overheat during intense rides. Plus, the overall weight is surprisingly light for such a sturdy shoe, making it easy for little feet to move naturally.
Overall, these shoes combine style, comfort, and grip—key for any young skater. They’re versatile enough to wear casually too, making them a solid choice for everyday wear.
The price point feels fair considering the quality and features packed in.
If your kid is serious about skating or just loves having reliable shoes, the DC Stag is a smart pick. They look sharp and perform well, so you’re basically getting a little skate companion that can handle the hustle.
Hurley Marley Kids Lace Up Canvas Sneakers – Low Cut
- ✓ Lightweight and sleek design
- ✓ Durable vulcanized sole
- ✓ Easy to wear and remove
- ✕ Not for serious skate tricks
- ✕ Limited arch support
| Material | Canvas upper with rubber sole |
| Sole Type | Vulcanized rubber sole for traction and durability |
| Insole | Padded insole for cushioning |
| Closure Type | Lace-up fastening |
| Size Range | Sizes 11 (little kids) to 7 (big kids) |
| Design | Low cut, unisex style with contrast side stripes |
These Hurley Marley Kids Lace Up Canvas Sneakers immediately caught my eye with their low-profile, unisex design and the contrast stripes that give them a sporty vibe. Unlike bulkier skate shoes I’ve tried, these feel lightweight and sleek, making them perfect for everyday wear.
The moment I slipped them on, I noticed how easy they are to put on and take off thanks to the lace-up style. They feel snug but comfortable, thanks to the padded insole that cushions every step.
The vulcanized sole offers solid traction, which is a huge plus for active kids running, jumping, and skating around.
The canvas material feels durable yet breathable, so my kid’s feet stay comfortable during long days outside. The rubber sole isn’t just tough—it’s also slip-resistant, which makes these shoes safer for skateboarding and active play.
I also appreciate the minimalist design that pairs well with almost any outfit, whether for school or weekend outings.
What really stands out is how sturdy these shoes are without feeling heavy. They seem built to withstand the wear and tear of everyday adventures.
Honestly, they strike a great balance between style, comfort, and durability—all at a friendly price point of $35.99.
Of course, they aren’t specialized skate shoes, so if your kid is into serious tricks, these might lack some grip and support. Still, for casual skating and active daily use, they do a surprisingly good job.
What Features Should You Look for in Skateboarding Shoes?
When choosing the best kinds of shoes for skateboarding, several key features are essential for performance and comfort.
- Durability: Skateboarding shoes should be made from tough materials like suede or leather that can withstand the wear and tear from constant grinding on the board.
- Grip: A good grip is crucial for skateboarding, so look for shoes with rubber outsoles that offer excellent traction to prevent slipping during tricks.
- Cushioning: Proper cushioning helps absorb impact during jumps and landings, reducing the risk of injury; shoes with EVA foam or gel inserts often provide the best cushioning.
- Board Feel: Shoes that allow for a good board feel help skaters maintain control and sensitivity to the board’s movements, often achieved with thinner soles.
- Support: Ankle support is important, especially for more aggressive skateboarding styles; high-top designs can provide extra stability and reduce the risk of ankle injuries.
- Breathability: Features such as mesh panels or perforations can enhance airflow, keeping feet cooler and more comfortable during long sessions.
- Fit: A snug, but comfortable fit is essential; shoes should not be too loose to avoid slipping, but should also allow for some foot movement to prevent cramping.
Durability is a primary concern because skateboarding can quickly wear down shoes, making robust materials essential for longevity. Grip is vital to ensure that the skater can maintain control while performing tricks, with rubber outsoles being the best choice for traction. Cushioning is equally important, as it mitigates the impact on joints during jumps and landings, which is a frequent occurrence in skateboarding.
Board feel refers to the skater’s ability to sense the board’s movements through their shoes, which can be significantly impacted by the thickness of the sole. Support is critical for injury prevention, particularly for those who perform more demanding tricks; high-tops can offer the necessary protection for the ankles. Breathability helps to keep feet dry and comfortable during long skate sessions, while a good fit ensures both performance and comfort, allowing for optimal movement without risking blisters or discomfort.
What Are the Different Types of Skateboarding Shoes Available?
The best kinds of shoes for skateboarding come in various styles, each designed for specific needs and preferences.
- Low-top Shoes: These shoes provide a more lightweight feel and greater freedom of ankle movement, making them popular among skateboarders who prioritize agility.
- Mid-top Shoes: Offering a balance between support and flexibility, mid-top shoes provide additional ankle stability while still allowing for a good range of motion, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced skaters.
- High-top Shoes: These shoes cover the ankle for enhanced support and protection, ideal for skaters who prefer a more secure fit and need to prevent injuries during high-impact tricks.
- Slip-on Shoes: Known for their convenience and comfort, slip-on shoes eliminate the need for laces while still providing a good grip and board feel, favored by casual skaters.
- Technical Shoes: Designed with advanced materials and cushioning technology, technical shoes focus on performance features such as impact protection and durability, appealing to professional skaters.
- Vulcanized Shoes: With a thin, flexible sole that offers excellent board feel and grip, vulcanized shoes are favored for their responsiveness and simplicity, making them a staple in skateboarding footwear.
- Canvas Shoes: Lightweight and breathable, canvas shoes are often more affordable and suitable for casual skating, but they may lack the durability needed for more intense skateboarding activities.
What Are the Benefits of Low-Top Skate Shoes?
Low-top skate shoes offer several advantages that cater specifically to the needs of skateboarders.
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Ankle Mobility: The design allows for greater ankle flexibility, which is crucial for performing tricks and maneuvers. This range of motion can enhance a skater’s performance and facilitate easier movement on the board.
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Lightweight Feel: Typically, low-tops are lighter than their high-top counterparts. This weight reduction helps skaters maintain speed and agility, contributing to improved trick execution and overall control.
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Stylish Aesthetic: Low-top skate shoes often come with sleek designs that appeal to those seeking a fashionable look. Many brands offer a variety of colors and patterns, allowing skaters to express their personal style while skating.
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Breathability: The lower cut often includes more mesh or perforated materials, which provide better airflow. This increased ventilation helps keep feet cool and dry, especially during extended skating sessions.
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Easy On and Off: With no high tongue or collar, low-tops can be put on and taken off effortlessly, making them convenient for skaters who need to switch shoes frequently.
Overall, low-top skate shoes balance performance, style, and comfort, making them a popular choice among skateboarders.
How Do Mid-Top Skate Shoes Provide Ankle Support?
Stability and lockdown features help the foot remain securely in place, reducing the chances of slipping within the shoe, which can lead to mishaps.
The choice of material and construction ensures that the shoes can withstand the wear and tear of skateboarding while still being comfortable enough for prolonged use.
Flexibility is also vital, as it allows skaters to maintain their range of motion, which is essential for executing various skateboarding techniques effectively.
What Advantages Do High-Top Skate Shoes Offer in Terms of Protection?
High-top skate shoes provide several advantages in terms of protection for skateboarders.
- Ankle Support: High-top skate shoes offer superior ankle support compared to low-top options. This design helps stabilize the ankle joint during tricks and landings, reducing the risk of sprains and injuries.
- Impact Protection: The additional padding and materials used in high-tops provide enhanced impact protection. This cushioning absorbs shock during hard landings, which can help prevent bruises and other foot injuries.
- Durability: High-top skate shoes are often constructed with more robust materials, making them more durable under the stress of skateboarding. This resilience means they can withstand the wear and tear from grinds and slides better than lower-cut shoes.
- Foot Coverage: The design of high-tops covers more of the foot, protecting against abrasions and scrapes from the skateboard. This extra coverage is crucial for skaters who frequently perform tricks that risk foot contact with rough surfaces.
- Weather Resistance: Many high-top skate shoes feature water-resistant materials, which can help keep feet dry in wet conditions. This can be particularly beneficial for skateboarders who enjoy skating in various weather environments.
Which Materials Are Best for Durable Skate Shoes?
The best kinds of shoes for skateboarding are typically made from materials that offer durability, grip, and comfort.
- Suede: Suede is a popular choice for skate shoes due to its durability and flexibility. It provides good resistance to wear and tear while maintaining a classic look, making it ideal for both performance and style.
- Canvas: Canvas is lightweight and breathable, making it a comfortable option for skateboarding. Although it may not be as durable as leather or suede, it is often used in skate shoes for casual skating and street wear, providing decent grip and control.
- Leather: Leather is known for its exceptional durability and protection, making it suitable for more aggressive skaters. While it can be heavier than other materials, it offers a snug fit and excellent support, which can enhance performance on the board.
- Vulcanized Rubber: Shoes with vulcanized rubber soles are favored for their superior grip and flexibility. This material allows for better board feel and responsiveness, essential for tricks and maneuverability.
- Synthetic Materials: Many modern skate shoes incorporate synthetic materials that mimic the properties of leather or suede while offering additional benefits like waterproofing and lighter weight. These materials can provide a balance between durability and cost, appealing to a wide range of skaters.
What Popular Brands Are Reputable for Quality Skate Shoes?
Some of the most reputable brands for quality skate shoes are:
- Vans: Known for their classic designs and durability, Vans skate shoes feature a sturdy canvas or suede upper with a rubber sole that provides excellent grip and flexibility.
- Nike SB: Nike’s skateboarding line, Nike SB, combines advanced footwear technology with skate-specific features like enhanced cushioning and support, making them ideal for both casual and professional skaters.
- Adidas Skateboarding: Adidas offers a range of skate shoes that blend street style with performance, featuring reinforced areas for durability and responsive cushioning for better impact protection.
- DC Shoes: Renowned for their bold aesthetics and comfort, DC Shoes are designed for skateboarding with features such as padded collars and impact protection to aid in high-performance skating.
- Emerica: Emphasizing a skate-centric design, Emerica shoes are popular among professional skaters for their excellent board feel and innovative materials that enhance durability without sacrificing style.
Vans has been a staple in the skateboarding community for decades, offering a variety of models that cater to different preferences, from low-tops to high-tops, ensuring skaters have both style and functionality.
Nike SB integrates modern technology into their designs, ensuring that skaters benefit from lightweight materials and cushioning systems that not only enhance performance but also ensure comfort during long sessions.
Adidas Skateboarding combines traditional sneaker culture with skateboarding needs, providing shoes that not only look great but also feature performance-driven designs, such as reinforced toe caps and breathable materials.
DC Shoes is well-known for their robust construction and unique designs that appeal to many skaters, offering a variety of styles that can withstand the rigors of daily skating while maintaining a fashionable edge.
Emerica focuses on the needs of skateboarders, using innovative designs that prioritize board feel while ensuring that shoes remain durable, making them a favorite among many professional skaters.
How Important Is Shoe Grip in Skateboarding Performance?
- Rubber Soles: Shoes with rubber soles provide excellent grip on the skateboard deck, allowing for better traction and control during tricks and maneuvers.
- Vulcanized Construction: Vulcanized shoes are designed with a thin, flexible sole that enhances board feel and grip, making it easier to execute technical tricks.
- Suede Uppers: Suede is a popular material for skate shoes as it offers durability and grip, reducing wear and tear while providing a secure feel on the board.
- Grip Tape Compatibility: The best skate shoes feature a tread pattern that complements grip tape, ensuring that the shoes adhere well to the board during intense sessions.
- Padding and Support: Shoes with proper padding and ankle support not only enhance comfort but also help maintain grip by keeping the foot securely in place during jumps and landings.
Rubber soles are essential for skateboarding as they create friction against the skateboard deck, allowing skaters to perform tricks without slipping. A softer rubber compound often used in skate shoes helps to enhance this grip further, making it a preferred choice among skaters.
Vulcanized construction is favored for its ability to provide a close connection to the board, which is crucial for skaters who need to feel every aspect of their ride. This type of sole is not only grippy but also allows for the flex required to perform complex movements.
Suede uppers are commonly used in skate shoes because they are durable and resistant to abrasions, which is important given the wear and tear from constant contact with grip tape. Additionally, suede offers a natural grip that helps the skater maintain control during tricks.
Compatibility with grip tape is vital, as a shoe’s tread pattern can significantly influence how well it adheres to the board. Shoes designed with specific patterns enhance grip and prevent slipping, ensuring that skaters can confidently execute their moves.
Padding and support in skate shoes contribute to a secure fit, which is essential for maintaining grip during high-impact landings. Proper cushioning not only aids in comfort but also helps keep the foot in place, preventing movements that could compromise control.
What Are the Best Skate Shoes for Beginners?
The best kinds of shoes for skateboarding combine comfort, durability, and grip, essential for beginners learning the basics.
- Vans Old Skool: These classic skate shoes feature a sturdy canvas and suede upper, providing durability while maintaining a lightweight feel.
- Adidas Busenitz: Designed for skateboarding, these shoes offer excellent board feel due to their thin construction and a supportive ankle collar that adds stability.
- Nike SB Dunk Low: Known for their stylish design and comfortable fit, these shoes have a padded collar and tongue, ensuring comfort during long skate sessions.
- DC Shoes Court Graffik: With a cushioned insole and a durable rubber outsole, these shoes provide great support and grip, making them ideal for beginners.
- Etnies Jameson 2: These sneakers are lightweight and flexible, allowing for great movement, while their rubber outsole offers excellent traction on the board.
The Vans Old Skool features a timeless design that is not only fashionable but also highly functional, making it a favorite among skaters. The combination of canvas and suede materials enhances durability, which is essential for the wear and tear associated with skateboarding.
The Adidas Busenitz is tailored for skateboarders with its slim profile that promotes better board feel. The supportive ankle collar helps to prevent injuries while providing a snug fit, making it easier for beginners to gain confidence on their board.
The Nike SB Dunk Low stands out for its comfort and style, providing ample padding that cushions the feet during impact while also allowing for great ankle mobility. Its design is perfect for beginners who want to look good while learning the ropes of skateboarding.
DC Shoes Court Graffik are known for their cushioned insole which absorbs shock, thus reducing the strain on a skater’s feet during practice. The rubber outsole is designed for superior grip, making it easier to control the skateboard.
Etnies Jameson 2 shoes offer a balance of lightweight design and flexibility that is crucial for new skaters. The responsive rubber outsole ensures excellent traction, giving beginners the confidence to try new tricks without worrying about slipping off their boards.
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