Skate Shoes For Beginners (a beginners guide)

Cropped photo of a man on a bench with skate shoe for beginners

We’re going to go over everything you need to know about skate shoes for beginners. If you’re new to skateboarding, then you might be wondering why it’s so important to wear the right shoes. 

Well, let me tell you, skate shoes are specifically designed to provide the support, flexibility, and durability that you need when skating. 

Regular sneakers might not cut it, and you could end up with sore feet, blisters, or worse. 

We’ll cover the key features you should look for and list some of the best options out there. We will also give you tips on how to choose the right size and fit. 

So, if you’re ready to take your skateboarding game to the next level, let’s dive in!

Features to Look for in Skate Shoes for Beginners

When it comes to skate shoes for beginners, there are a few key features that you should look for. 

These features will not only improve your performance while skating but also provide you with the necessary support and protection for your feet.

First and foremost, durable construction is crucial. Skate shoes are designed to withstand the wear and tear that comes with skatings. These include grip tape abrasion and constant impact on hard surfaces. 

Look for shoes made from durable materials like suede, leather, or synthetic fabrics. Your need shoes that can hold up against the rigors of skating.

Secondly, a grippy sole is essential. The sole of the shoe should be made from rubber or other high-grip material. This is so as to provide you with the traction you need to stay on your board. 

A sole that’s too slick can cause your feet to slip off the board, leading to falls or other injuries.

Good support and cushioning are also crucial features to look for. 

Skating can be hard on your feet, so it’s important to have shoes that provide ample support and cushioning. This is to help absorb shock and prevent injuries. 

Look for shoes with padded collars, insoles, and midsoles. These can help cushion your feet from the impact of landing tricks.

Flexibility for maneuverability is another key feature. Skate shoes should be flexible enough to allow for a full range of motion when skating. This motion include bending, twisting, and turning. 

Look for shoes that are designed to move with your feet, without feeling restrictive or uncomfortable.

Lastly, breathable material for comfort is important. Skate sessions can get hot and sweaty, so it’s important to have shoes that allow your feet to breathe. 

Look for shoes with mesh or perforated panels that allow air to circulate and keep your feet cool and dry.

By keeping these features in mind when shopping for skate shoes, you’ll be able to find a pair that not only looks cool but also provides you with the necessities. By necessities we talk about support, protection, and performance you need to skate your best.

Top Skate Shoes for Beginners

If you’re new to skateboarding, choosing the right pair of skate shoes can be overwhelming. With so many options out there, it can be challenging to know where to start. 

To help you out, we’ve put together a list of some of the best skate shoes for beginners. You will also see a descriptions of each and why they’re a good choice. 

The list is not exhaustive but will be a good guide.

Vans Old Skool – The Vans Old Skool is a classic skate shoe that’s been around for decades. 

It features a durable canvas and suede upper, a grippy waffle sole, and a padded collar for comfort and support. 

It’s a versatile shoe that’s perfect for beginners who want a reliable option that looks good on and off the board. Prices range from $60 to $75.

Nike SB Charge – The Nike SB Charge is a great option for beginners who want a shoe that can handle the rigors of skating but also looks stylish. 

It features a durable suede and leather upper, a grippy sole, and a foam midsole for cushioning. It’s a comfortable shoe that’s perfect for long skate sessions. Prices range from $55 to $65.

Adidas 3MC – The Adidas 3MC is a sleek, minimalist skate shoe that’s perfect for beginners who want shoes that look good and performs well. 

It features a durable canvas upper, a grippy sole, and a cushioned insole for comfort. 

It’s a lightweight shoe that’s easy to maneuver in, making it a great choice for learning new tricks. Prices range from $50 to $70.

Emerica Wino G6 – The Emerica Wino G6 is a low-profile skate shoe. It’s perfect for beginners who want a shoe that’s comfortable and easy to skate in. 

It features a durable suede and canvas upper, a grippy sole, and a cushioned insole for comfort. It’s a stylish shoe that’s perfect for both casual wear and skating. Prices range from $60 to $75.

DC Court Graffik – The DC Court Graffik is a classic skate shoe that’s been around for years. It features a durable leather upper, a grippy sole, and a padded collar for comfort and support. 

It’s a great option for beginners who want a reliable shoe that can handle the wear and tear of skating. Prices range from $50 to $70.

Converse Cons One Star – The Converse Cons One Star is a stylish skate shoe that features a durable suede and canvas upper, a grippy sole, and a cushioned insole for comfort. 

It’s a versatile shoe that’s perfect for beginners who want a shoe that can handle the rigors of skating while still looking good. Prices range from $50 to $70.

Lakai Griffin – The Lakai Griffin is a low-profile skate shoe that features a durable suede and canvas upper, a grippy sole, and a cushioned insole for comfort. 

It’s a lightweight shoe that’s easy to maneuver in, making it a great choice for learning new tricks. Prices range from $50 to $65.

Globe Tilt – The Globe Tilt is a classic skate shoe that features a durable leather and synthetic upper. It also has a grippy sole, and a cushioned insole for comfort. 

It’s a great option for beginners who want a reliable shoe that can handle the wear and tear of skating. Prices range from $50 to $70.

Etnies Marana – The Etnies Marana is a durable skate shoe that features a reinforced rubber toe cap.It also has a grippy sole, and a cushioned insole for comfort. 

It’s a great option for beginners who want a shoe that can handle the toughest tricks and jumps. Prices range from $60 to $75.

Adidas Skateboarding 3ST.004 – The Adidas Skateboarding 3ST.004 is a modern skate shoe that features a durable suede and mesh upper, a grippy sole, and a cushioned insole for comfort. 

It’s a versatile shoe that’s perfect for beginners who want a shoe that can handle all types of skating. Prices range from $80 to $100.

Vans Sk8-Hi – The Vans Sk8-Hi is a high-top skate shoe that features a durable suede and canvas upper, a grippy waffle sole, and a padded collar for support and comfort. 

It’s a classic shoe that’s perfect for beginners who want a reliable option that looks good on and off the board. Prices range from $70 to $85.

Nike SB Check Solarsoft – The Nike SB Check Solarsoft is a comfortable skate shoe that features a durable canvas and suede upper, a grippy sole, and a cushioned insole for comfort. 

It’s a great option for beginners who want a shoe that’s easy to break in and comfortable to wear for long periods. Prices range from $65 to $80.

New Balance Numeric 255 – The New Balance Numeric 255 is a stylish skate shoe that features a durable suede and canvas upper, a grippy sole, and a cushioned insole for comfort. 

It’s a lightweight shoe that’s easy to maneuver in, making it a great choice for learning new tricks. Prices range from $65 to $80.

All of these shoes are great options for beginners, but it’s important to find the one that’s right for you. 

When choosing a skate shoe, consider the type of skating you’ll be doing, your personal style preferences, and your budget. 

While it’s tempting to go for the most expensive option, it’s not always necessary. Many affordable options can provide you with the support and performance you need to skate

In summary, finding the right skate shoe is essential for beginners who want to improve their skating game. 

By choosing a shoe with a durable construction, grippy sole, good support, and cushioning flexibility for maneuverability, and breathable material for comfort, you’ll be able to skate with confidence and avoid injuries. 

With so many great options out there, it’s easy to find a shoe that fits your style and budget. So, go ahead and find the perfect pair of skate shoes to help you take your skating to the next level!

Choosing the Right Size and Fit

Choosing the right size and fit for your skate shoes is crucial for optimal performance and safety while skating. 

Ill-fitting shoes can cause discomfort, pain, and even lead to injuries, so it’s essential to find the right size and fit for your feet.

When choosing skate shoes, it’s important to remember that they should fit snugly but not be too tight. 

Your toes should be close to the end of the shoe but not touching, and there should be enough room in the toe box for your toes to move around comfortably. 

The heel of the shoe should also fit snugly, without slipping or rubbing.

To measure your foot and find the right size, start by tracing your foot on a piece of paper. Measure the length from the tip of your longest toe to the heel and the width at the widest part of your foot. 

Compare these measurements to the sizing chart provided by the shoe manufacturer to determine your size. See here for how to measure your feet

When trying on skate shoes, make sure to wear the socks you’ll be skating in to ensure an accurate fit. 

Walk around in the shoes and try out some skateboarding movements to get a feel for how they fit and perform. 

If possible, try on different sizes and styles to find the one that feels the most comfortable and provides the best support.

When it comes to trying on and testing skate shoes, there are a few key factors to consider. First, make sure to try on both shoes and walk around in them for a few minutes. 

Pay attention to any areas that feel tight or uncomfortable and make sure the shoes provide enough support and cushioning.

More on choosing the right size and fit

Second, try out some skateboarding movements to see how the shoes perform. Jump, turn, and twist in the shoes to get a sense of their flexibility and grip. 

As you do this be careful not to damage the shoe you are yet to buy, so do this with limited force to only get an idea. 

Look for shoes that feel comfortable and stable, with a sole that provides enough grip for your skating style.

Finally, consider the shape and design of the shoes. Different shoes will provide different levels of support and flexibility, so it’s important to find the ones that work best for your feet and your skating style.

Look for shoes that fit well, provide enough cushioning and support, and feel comfortable and stable while skating.

Overall, choosing the right size and fit for your skate shoes is essential for optimal performance and safety while skating. 

And by following these tips and trying out different sizes and styles, you can find the perfect pair of skate shoes to help you take your skating to the next level.

Some FAQs

Let us answer some common questions about skate shoes for beginners::

Q: Can you skate in regular shoes?

A: While it is possible to skate in regular shoes, it is not recommended. 

Regular shoes do not provide the necessary support, cushioning, or grip for skateboarding, and can increase your risk of injury. 

Skate shoes are specifically designed to withstand the unique demands of skateboarding and provide the necessary support, flexibility, and protection for your feet.

Q: How long do skate shoes last?

A: The lifespan of skate shoes varies depending on factors such as frequency of use, skating style, and shoe quality. 

Generally, a good quality pair of skate shoes can last anywhere from a few months to a year or more with less than regular use. 

To extend the lifespan of your skate shoes, try to avoid using them for activities other than skateboarding.

Also make sure to take proper care of them by cleaning them regularly and allowing them to dry completely after use.

See here for maintaining your skate shoe

Q: Can you use skate shoes for other activities?

A: While skate shoes are specifically designed for skateboarding, they can be used for other activities such as casual wear, walking, and even some sports. 

However, it’s important to keep in mind that the features that make skate shoes ideal for skating, such as the grip and durability of the sole, may not be necessary for other activities. 

Additionally, using your skate shoes for other activities may wear them down more quickly, reducing their lifespan for skating use. 

It’s generally recommended to have a separate pair of shoes for skateboarding and other activities. This will ensure that your skate shoes remain in good condition for optimal performance and safety on your board.

In summary, when it comes to skate shoes for beginners, it’s important to choose a pair that provides the necessary support, flexibility, and grip for optimal performance and safety while skating. 

By choosing the right size and fit, taking proper care of your shoes, and following these tips and recommendations, you can find the perfect pair of skate shoes to help you stabilize your skating.

Conclusion

Skate shoes are an essential part of any beginner’s skateboarding gear. They provide the necessary support, flexibility, and grip for optimal performance and safety on your board. 

When choosing skate shoes, look for durable construction, a grippy sole, good support, and cushioning, flexibility for maneuverability, and breathable materials for comfort. 

It’s also important to choose the right size and fit and to take proper care of your shoes to extend their lifespan. [See here for Skateboard shoe longevity]

By following these tips and recommendations, you can find the perfect pair of skate shoes for beginners to help you improve your skills in skating.

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