Skaters rock! If you’re reading this article you’re either a seasoned skater who’s been in the game for a minute or you’re a complete rookie getting introduced to skating for the first time. In the meantime, you’re wondering what are the most durable skate shoes that actually last?
Skate shoes are for skaters and work boots are for workers – sort of. In the same way, there’s a specific set of shoes meant for basketball players, soccer players, and even pickleball players, there are shoes meant for skaters, too. The more tailor-made to the needs of a skater they are, the better.
What’s the difference between, say, Vans and Fila “dad” sneakers? What makes a skate shoe good for both ams and thrashers? Most of all, what are the most durable skate shoes that aren’t going to rip the moment you start flippin’ and turnin’? More on that down below!
But first, what makes skate shoes different from others?
When you’re on the hunt for high-quality, hard-wearing sneakers, you might be drawn to runners or even hiking sneakers and hiking boots because they’re sturdier and stiffer. But you’re aware that these types of sneakers wouldn’t work for skating. Why, though?
Skate shoes are different from others because they’re made with a flatter, stiffer sole that ensures you get a good grip when skating. Skaters are no strangers to wipe-outs, but it shouldn’t be because of shoes. Moreover, skate shoes are made more supportive and stable, too.
What to look for when shopping for skate shoes?
So, you’re shopping for skate shoes? Well, you need to watch out for a few things to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth. Skate shoes need to be comfortable, supportive, and stable, as well as grippy and non-slippy – but that’s not all you need to look out for.
Skaters don’t go through skate shoes as quickly as you might think. More times than not, skaters will wear their shoes until grip tape eats through socks or until the outsoles fall off. Moreover, skaters won’t even think of getting new shoes until their old ones are literally falling apart or falling off their feet.
Whether you’re a seasoned skater or simply trying to start somewhere, you’re probably aware that wearing rugged, ripped skate shoes can ultimately result in an injury. To ensure your skate shoes last longer than two or three months, opt for a high-quality, hard-wearing pair.
Vans, Converse, or Adidas skate shoes – that’s up to you. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites to ensure you’re on the right track. Whatever you decide to do, you can’t go wrong with lightweight, breathable, comfortable sneakers that allow you to feel the board beneath. Let’s get started!
The most durable skate shoes on the market
1. Vans Classic Slip-On
We couldn’t pass on the opportunity to rave about Vans. Whether you’ve even worn Vans or asked a skater for advice on rad sneakers, chances are you already know why Vans are as popular and prominent as they are.
Now, you can’t go wrong with any Vans you’re drawn to, but Vans slip-ons are versatile, wearable, and durable. Not to mention that you can get pair after pair without breaking the bank considering the price tag on these bad boys.
With a canvas upper, supportive padded collars, stretchy side panels, and rubber waffle outsoles, these slip-ons are what every skater dreams are made of.
2. Nike Blazer ’77 Mid
If you’re on the hunt for a high-top option, you might want to give Nike Blazer ’77 Mid sneakers a try. High-tops are great at keeping your ankles safe, but these particular high-tops come with a myriad of favorable features that promise to keep your feet happy and healthy.
With a leather upper, plenty of padding for comfort, and non-marking, solid rubber outsoles, these sneakers are guaranteed to keep you on your toes. We do need to underline that they’re super, super durable, too, and you won’t have to worry about them rubbing through the toe immediately.
Stoked much?
3. New Balance Numeric 306
We adore New Balance sneakers because they’re comfortable and wearable, and they’re a celeb-approved must-have.
But you might be wondering which New Balance sneakers are appropriate for the skate park. Before you head over to the official New Balance website, meet New Balance Numeric 306, the most attractive skate shoes we’ve added to the list.
New Balance came out with an entire series of performance-oriented skate shoes, which means you’ve got your work cut out for you.
With mesh panels all around for airflow, a suede upper that can withstand a good amount of wear and tear, and rubber outsoles to keep you grounded without issues, you can’t go wrong with Numeric 306s.
4. Converse Louie Lopez Pro
We can’t talk about skater shoes without including Converse, right? Converse might not be as popular as Vans within the community, but that doesn’t mean that Converse Louie Lopez Pro isn’t one of the most durable skate shoes out there.
Contrary to popular belief, Converse can withstand the test of time – depending on which Converse you opt for. With a suede upper that doesn’t tear as easily as canvas, CX Foam footbeds for added comfort, and non-slip rubber outsoles, there’s nothing Converse Louie Lopez Pros can’t do.
Oh, and we can’t overlook that Louie Lopez is one of the best young skaters in the game and that he knows what’s up.
5. Adidas Tyshawn Jones
On the off chance that you’re not the biggest Louie Lopez enthusiast, Adidas has got your back with Tyshawn Jones.
Tyshawn Jones might be one of the biggest, best skaters in the world right now, and wearing sneakers with Tyshawn’s name on them must mean something. Constructed with high-quality materials, we’re positive that these sneakers can withstand whatever you’re doing on the regular.
Made with a suede upper, cup support, a flexible midsole wrap, a high-grade EVA midsole, and a rubber outsole, these sneakers can provide you with the support, comfort, and control you need to hit the ramps and rails with ease.
6. Berrics x Carriuma
We couldn’t forget about the iconic collaboration between sneaker brand Carriuma and legendary skatepark The Berrics.
We’d go as far as to argue that these sneakers deserve a spot on everyone’s roster of skate shoes – they’re simple, sleek, and celebrated by skaters around the world. Whether you’re a fan of collecting skate memorabilia or not, you can’t deny that these kicks are perfect for showing off.
With a reinforced flick point on the toe, we don’t even need to question how hard-wearing these sneakers are. Super sticky outsoles and memory foam midsoles add to the ultimate skating experience, too.
7. Converse Cons CTA Pro
Converse managed to become a staple among skaters for a reason. With their Cons skate series, Converse convinced everyone they’re the sickest sneakers out there, even though they’re not necessarily the most high-quality or hard-wearing.
Made with a canvas upper, Converse Cons CTA Pro sneakers are known to rip apart with time, but that doesn’t stop skaters from buying them over and over. With a tempting price tag, a minimal design, and some sweet street cred, we didn’t want to devoid you of the sheer swagger that comes with these kicks.
8. Vans Half Cab Pro
Vans are perfect for amateur and pro skaters because they’re non-slippy, grippy, and simple to style. But Vans Half Cab Pros are perfect for skaters who want something in between the Sk8-Hi and the slip-on.
High-tops are great for ankle support but they’re on the bulky and heavy side. Low-tops are lightweight and breathable, but they’re a great way to scrape your exposed ankles. Mid-tops, however, are the perfect balance between the two – and that’s exactly why we’re rooting for Vans Half Cab Pros.
With a tried and true style like Vans Half Cub Pro, you don’t need to worry about a thing.
9. Lakai Cambridge
On the lookout for something more durable than Converse and Vans? You might want to give Lakai Cambridge sneakers a go.
Lakai Cambridge sneakers seemed to have thought of everything – suede uppers that can take a beating, grippy PARA-MOUNT outsoles that promise to prevent you from slipping and sliding, and DELUX-LITE footbeds to keep you comfortable throughout the day.
With a simple design, you can wear these sneakers in both skate and non-skate modes.
10. Emerica Pillar Mid
Supportive and protective, Emerica Pillar Mid sneakers are a great way to wrap up the list. Whether you’re searching for breathable, lightweight sneakers that won’t drag you down or true skate shoes that provide some of the best support on the market, these are the sneakers for you.
We do need to mention that they’re heavier than your average canvas sneakers, but they’re pretty lightweight compared to other bulkier, bigger styles. With that out of the way, we hope you found what you were looking for!
