Wondering what are the best shoes for longboarding? Whether you enjoy this fun activity or are looking to get into longboarding, I’m sure this question has crossed your mind.
And luckily for you, today is the day it will be answered!
If you are someone who practices longboarding or you know someone who does, you probably know how important it is to wear a good pair of shoes for the sport.
You’re well aware that shoes with good grip and outstanding traction are the way to go. After all, longboarding involves many impressive and challenging tricks that can potentially end in falls and injuries.
There are also other features that the longboarding shoes simply have to have. You will read about all of them below, and see what shoes we deem the best. So without further ado, let’s jump right in.
What to look for in shoes for longboarding?
1. Sole quality
The best shoes for longboarding will have high-quality soles. This feature is important because the soles will need to absorb great amounts of pressure.
Also, your feet experience a lot of stress trying to keep you balanced on the board, so it’s crucial for the soles to be at the top of their game.
Therefore, it’s best to go for shoes with solid soles with added rubber protection, since these will be able to protect your feet and provide you with a better board grip.
2. Traction
Traction is probably the most important feature to consider when looking for shoes for longboarding. It keeps you safe when you are on the board and ensures you don’t slip, therefore helps to prevent falls and injuries.
3. Material and style
The best longboarding shoes are usually made out of leather, suede, or at least equally strong synthetic material. It’s important that they are tightly sewn – preferably double-stitched and not just glued.
And when it comes to style, even though it’s not the most important feature, it still has to be considered. We tend to gravitate toward things we like, so make sure to get shoes you actually enjoy wearing.
4. Weight
Shoes for longboarding simply have to be lightweight. The idea is to wear shoes you barely feel on your feet, so you can pull off impressive tricks without them hindering you.
What are the best shoes for longboarding?
1. Adidas X_PLR Fashion Sneakers
Starting off strong with a brand that just can’t seem to disappoint. Adidas is famous for manufacturing high-quality shoes for any sport and occasion, so it should come as no surprise that it has found its place on our list of the best shoes for longboarding.
This particular model is made out of ballistic mesh, making them water-resistant and ensuring they can withstand rough weather. It also comes with PrimaLoft insulation to ensure proper airflow for long periods of time.
These shoes feature a mid-foot caging mechanism that keeps your feet in place and protects you from potential sprains. They also come with a premium nubuck in the heel area to maintain your balance.
These Adidas sneakers come in a wide array of colors and their price is a bargain.
2. Adidas Originals Seeley Sneakers
It is no coincidence that our list of the best shoes for longboarding contains four Adidas models. The people behind this brand truly know what they’re doing.
Originals Seeley sneakers have a very sleek and minimalistic look. Made out of synthetic suede, they’re sturdy and resistant to abrasion. Their soles are constructed out of vulcanized rubber which ensures a superb grip and minimizes the risk of falls and injuries.
These shoes offer great protection, so you won’t have to worry about your feet aching or getting hurt. Available in multiple color options, they’ll set you back approximately $65.
3. Adidas Originals Superstar Sneakers
These sneakers have gained popularity in recent years. But apart from being a great everyday footwear option, they are also amazing for longboarding. And here’s why.
Originals Superstar sneakers are made of full leather, which means they are extremely durable. They’re also amply cushioned and super comfortable – you can wear them for literally an entire day without feeling an ounce of pain or soreness.
Another great thing about these kicks is that they are highly breathable and well-ventilating. With them on, you can ride as long as you like without fearing your feet will get sweaty and smelly.
But their most prominent feature is definitely their rubber shell toe box that adds to their durability and provides your feet enough room to wiggle around, not feeling any pressure.
With these timeless sneakers, you won’t have to sacrifice either comfort or style – you’ll get both, for around $70.
4. Adidas Originals U Path Run Sneakers
And the fourth and last Adidas model that has made our list are these U Path Run sneakers, sporting textile and synthetic materials and a roomy heel area.
Their soles are also entirely synthetic and provide an amazing grip to ensure maximum balance, so you can longboard for hours on end.
These sneakers are also very comfortable and lightweight on your feet. They feature EVA midsoles for increased comfort, suitability, and prolonged wear.
And with a range of color choices, you’re bound to find one you like. They come in a bit pricier than their Adidas siblings at around $200, but can often be found on sale.
5. Converse All Star Skate Sneakers
Another well-known and well-loved brand that has successfully made it on our list is, of course, Converse. These famous sneakers are worn by many generations worldwide, and they make an ideal everyday option for when you just want to get a few steps in or reach your 10k daily goal.
That said, they’re also a great option for longboarding!
These iconic sneakers are known as a good footwear option for skating. They have a very minimalistic yet timeless look to them. Made out of canvas material, they’re extremely lightweight, breathable, and flexible.
These sneakers feature outsoles made out of durable rubber that can withstand any kind of challenge and help you perform many kickass tricks.
All Stars are available in a wide array of colors, and you’ll find them at around the $220 mark, but can oftentimes be found on sale for less.
6. DC Pure Skate Shoes
Not sure if you’ve heard of this brand, but a go-to brand for many skating and longboarding aficionados – and for good reason.
These bad boys are made out of 100% leather and feature rubber soles. This means they’re extremely durable, breathable, and supportive.
Together with their lightweight padded tongue and collar, they provide ample comfort, support, and protection. They’re also triple-stitched which prevents abrasion, and they come with wrap cup soles for more space.
These remarkable sneakers come in many colors and can be bought for around $100.
7. Osiris Protocol Skate Shoes
Now here’s another worthy model to make our list, this time by Osiris. These Protocols aren’t just a pretty face, they’re lightweight and durable. They are made out of 100% synthetic material and feature reinforced rubber soles.
They also come with a padded tongue and collar, adding to their overall comfort and support. Their fit is great and they aren’t restrictive whatsoever, so your toes are able to wiggle freely inside.
With a variety of color options and a pretty affordable price tag of $60, you can’t really go wrong with these kicks.
8. Vans Old Skool Classic Skate Shoes
I’m sure your first association with skating and longboarding (in terms of footwear, of course) is probably this well-known brand. For that reason, Vans deserve a mention (actually two!) on our list of the best shoes for longboarding.
Old Skool Classics are made out of cotton material and rubber soles, allowing for maximum grip and traction. And your feet will never feel too hot, since they are very breathable and well-ventilated.
Oh, and Vans went above and beyond in the comfort department. Wearing a pair of these puppies feels almost as though you’re wearing nothing. They are legitimately that lightweight and comfy!
These kicks are both stylish and practical. You can wear them while longboarding, and rock them later at a party or something. They are so versatile!
They are available in many fun colors and cost around $60.
9. Vans Era Skate Shoes
The second Vans model worth mentioning is Era Skate. Sure, they have a very simple look to them, but they literally look like something you’d wear for skating or longboarding.
These sneakers are made out of textile covering and feature thick rubber soles whose main goal is to keep you planted on your board and ensure outstanding traction. They are incredibly comfy, lightweight, and supportive.
They come in many sizes, so there’s no way you won’t find a pair that fits, and they can be bought for a decent price of $40.
