What Makes a Good Skateboard Shoe

In this guide, we’ll break down what makes a good skate shoe, from chunky, old-school styles to modern, slimmed-down versions. We'll also dive into how long you can expect them to last, how they should fit, and why the little things—like skate shoe laces—matter more than you think.

Skateboarding isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of life. And as any good skateboarder knows, the right gear can make all the difference. That starts from the bottom, with your shoes.

While your board does the heavy lifting, your skate shoes are what keep you connected to it. A solid pair of shoes gives you the grip, durability and comfort you need to pull off all those tricks without wrecking your feet–or coming unstuck.

Skate shoes are just what you’d imagine – shoes specially designed to handle the wear and tear of skateboarding. They might look like regular sneakers, but they’re totally built differently. From reinforced materials to extra cushioning in all the right places, skate shoes are made to keep your feet protected and help you keep control of your board.

When it comes to skate shoes, you've got a range of styles to choose from. Some skaters dig the chunkier, retro vibe. Others go for sleek, low-profile shoes that give more flexibility and board feel. No matter the look, a good skate shoe is all about functionality—it’s got to be durable, grippy and comfortable.

So, what sets skate shoes apart from your standard pair of sneakers? A few things

Durability

Skate shoes are built tough. They’re usually made with suede, leather, or canvas to ensure they can handle the constant rubbing against grip tape. Plus, they’ve often have reinforced stitching and padding in areas like the toes and sides, which tend to get worn out fast during skating.

Grip

The soles of skate shoes are designed for maximum grip. Most are made from vulcanised rubber or feature a cupsole design. Vulcanised soles are thinner and more flexible, giving you a better board feel, while cupsoles are thicker and provide more impact protection—perfect for landing tricks. It’s up to you!

Impact protection

Skateboarding can be rough on your feet. This is why skate shoes come with padded insoles and collars to absorb shock and protect your feet from hard landings. The best skate shoes give you enough cushioning without making you feel disconnected from your board.

Support and flexibility

A good skate shoe strikes a balance between flexibility and support. It should let you move your feet freely while still providing enough structure to protect your ankles and arches, especially during tricks. Some shoes also have extra ankle padding for added protection.

Picking the best skate shoe really comes down to what kind of skating you’re into. If you’re all about cruising and low-impact tricks, you might prefer lightweight, flexible shoes that let you feel the board under your feet. On the other hand, if you’re into big jumps and grinds, a bulkier shoe with more cushioning and support might be your go-to.

At the end of the day, the best skate shoe is one that matches your style and holds up over time. At Vans, our skate shoes are all about the perfect mix of comfort, grip, and long-lasting durability. So whether you’re into a classic skate shoe, a pair of hi-tops, sleek low tops, or just about anything else, we’ve got you covered.

A great pair of skate shoes should last you a pretty long time. Of course, wear and tear will depend on how hard and how often you skate. If you’re out there every day, hitting tricks and grinding rails, your shoes might start to show a little wear and tear earlier.

You’ll usually start to see wear around the seams, laces, and the soles. However, investing in high-quality skate shoes can definitely cut down on how often you need a replacement. Check the tread on your soles first. If they’re losing grip, it’s time to start thinking about getting a new pair of shoes.

The way your skate shoes fit can make or break your skate sessions. If they’re too tight, they’ll be uncomfortable and restrict your movement. Too loose, and you’ll lose control over your board. The best skate shoes should fit snugly but comfortably, giving you just enough room to move.

Your shoe size should match your skateboard size pretty closely. If your shoes are too big, your foot might slip inside, messing with your grip and balance. If they’re too small, they’ll cramp your style (and your feet), making it harder to skate well.

One thing a lot of skaters overlook? Skate shoe laces. Make sure you tie them tight enough to keep your shoes secure, but not so tight that they dig into your feet. Some skate shoes come with reinforced eyelets or hidden lace loops to help prevent your laces from wearing out while you skate. If your laces keep breaking, it might be time to invest in some higher-quality ones, too.

In the end, a good skateboard shoe is one that fits well, lasts long, and makes you feel good on your board. Whether you’re cruising around or mastering technical tricks, the right shoes can make all the difference.

At Vans, we’ve got the perfect skate shoes for men and women to help you master the board. Plus, we’ve got tons of awesome skate-inspired clothing and accessories to perfect your look.