Best Skate Shoes 2021 – Reviews And Buyer’s Guide

Last Updated on October 3, 2021 by Jayda Salinas

Here we have brought the best skate shoes which are durable reliable and comfortable available in a wide price range. Moreover, skate shoes are not only made for skateboarding but are also made for regular use. Nowadays skateboard shoes are quite trendy and fashionable.

Furthermore, you need to know some factors before buying the best skate shoes 2021, the sole of the skate shoes shall be flat and made up of rubber or polyurethane. Also, the material of the shoes should be sturdy, and they should be double stitched.

By wearing normal shoes, you can never have a fun ride on your skateboard. Moreover, you cannot maintain your balance in a standard shoe on a skateboard. These skate shoes are made for the protection of your feet and give excellent grip to the rider with comfort.

Plus, they have extra padding for hard landings. However, its grip type, material, lace, fitness, toe area, uppers, etc. are hard to find in a variety of skateboard shoe brands.

TOP PICKS

High-End

Vans Classic Slip-On

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Budget Friendly

Lakai Men’s Griffin

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List of 16 Best Skate Shoes for 2021

Here is the list of best skate shoes you can pick the right one that can fulfill your requirements.

1. Vans Classic Slip-On – Durable

These vans are flexible and comfortable with an easy-wear silhouette. Moreover, the qualities of these vans are lightweight, flexible, and have an amazing grip. However, the sole of this skate shoe is made up of multiple layers of rubber that are glued together to the upper with foxing tape.

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But one disadvantage of these best skateboard shoes is vulcs – less protection compared to the cup soles. So, the outer material of this shoe is the original waffle and defines the impressive durability of this cleat. Lastly, leather is used on the toes as a primary material and suede is most of the material used while making this shoe.

Physical Outlook
Vans classic looks truly like a classic pair with all its traditional parts. The upper is a check board design that is attractive and retro. The material of the upper is rather soft and textile. This is paired with a thick rubber outsole that increases traction. These weigh 1.8 pounds with dimensions ‎ 5 x 5 x 0.7 inches.

2. Vans Men’s Old School Core Classics – Lightweight

This sneaker is a beauty and has an iconic side stripe-like Adidas model with a durable canvas upper. It is a low-top lace-up silhouette. These best skateboard shoes have metal eyelets with an extra padded tongue. Moreover, these have a signature waffle outsole. However, these are one of the most graceful skate shoes.

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Furthermore, it is made up of imported rubber and canvas. Moreover, it has a fantastic grip. It makes people stand and stare at it. Besides, these vans come in eight unique variations, and if you are a selective individual, they will have your favorite color too. These are the most durable best skate shoes. Unfortunately, they have low foaming and cushioning for a comfortable feel. But these will last longer and give you the best fun ride with a fantastic performance.

Physical Outlook
Vans Men has a signature look with a side strip that is recognizable from afar. It adds to the polished look of the skateboard pair. The canvas upper is highly flexible and lets you enjoy flexing while skateboarding. Due to many seams on the upper, the canvas is less likely to tear. Additionally, the rubber outsole is thick making these weigh 1.7 pounds with dimensions 10.9 x 5.3 x 4.2 inches.

3. DC Men’s Pure Action Sport Sneaker – Long-lasting

One of the most durable skate shoes from DC, and they have various hues from which you can choose yours, according to your mind. Moreover, these best skateboard shoes are very soft because they are made up of soft, resilient action leather, and wearing these makes your feet protective throughout the day, as they are super comfortable.

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Furthermore, these skate shoes are made up of imported rubber that provides an amazing grip. With that, they are lightweight, and it will give you the best experience. Moreover, it is breathable and gives your toes extra room, and will not get bruised. These are the most durable skate shoes.

Also, it comes with multiple brands with extra padding and protection. This cleat has a leather upper which makes it more attractive and has a mesh lining design. Extra-padding enhances the comfort level and gives better support to the feet. Overall, these skate shoes are a tough one to beat, and it will last longer.

Physical Outlook
DC men have their own look that has kicked aside the norms. Instead of a traditional canvas upper, the shoes have a leather exterior. The logo is stitched onto the leather adding to the attractive outlook. The inside is soft with multiple padding so the thumps against the skateboard are deflected. Not to mention the leather and rubber cleats have high traction. These weigh 1.1 pounds as expected with dimensions 8 x 5 x 1 inches.

4. Etnies Jameson 2 Eco Skate Shoes – Nice grip

Etnies is made up of imported fabric, and this brand has been manufacturing skate shoes for a long time ago and they are making the best shoe for better performance of the user. This pair is not their first skate shoe. Moreover, this brand is perfect for all users and riders. Plus, it is the most popular and top-rated style. This brand is also protecting the environment by planting a tree once, and one shoe is selling.

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So in the construction of this shoe, a cup sole with 400 NBS rubber outsole and internal EVA midsole is used. Plus, for extra comfort, they make STI foam lite 1 footed. Moreover, they are comfy to chill in and affordable. However, if we take a look at its aesthetic, they are clean, simple, and have a nice texture. Also, this shoe has a logo on the tongue, footed, and heels for making the shoe pop.

Additionally, they are very comfortable with to best skateboard shoes. Also, they enhance the performance of the skater. Even if you don’t skate these shoes will give excellent support to your arch. Lastly, the triangular pattern is made from recycling tires.

Physical Outlook
Etnies is a simplistic shoe suitable for all age groups. There are no funky colors as it has a monotonous style. The upper is made of canvas and synthetic material. Adding to that the lacework is thin and has four metal eyelets accompanied by thick rubber. This cup sole skate shoe weighs 13 ounces and has dimensions give or take 12 x 8 x 4 inches.

5. DC Men’s Trase TX Unisex Skate Shoe – Imported leather

This skate footwear is a pro. Moreover, these have padded tongues for extra comfort and protection with lace-up leather. Plus, the sole is made with fabric to enhance the look of the shoes and durability.

However, these high-walled rubber sole offers a nice grip as they are lightweight and are vulcanized with resistant abrasion of rubber on the outer sole.

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Furthermore, the tongue of this shoe has an official DC men’s logo to give a fantastic look. Make sure that you buy a size bigger than your actual size because they might run small. These aren’t explicitly made for skating; you can wear them casually too. A disadvantage of this shoe is that it don’t give much support to your arch.

These skateboard shoes are comfortable and you will enjoy skating with these shoes. Lastly, these are good looking skate shoes and can be used to wear at the workplace, to skate, or for a casual meeting.

Physical Outlook
This DC pair is no less different than the previous one with a low profile, clean cut upper. The simplistic features are put together nicely. The lace up is short and attached to the same leather upper. However, the presence of the logo along the sides and tongue adds to the aesthetics. The strong rubber outsole increases the weight a bit. Overall, these weigh 13 ounces and are 11.2 x 7.1 x 4.5 inches wide.

6. DC Men’s Net Lace-Up Shoe – Comfortable

Bulky pair of DC men’s lace-up model but it has a height around the ankles for enhancing the comfort level and grip of the shoe. These best skateboard shoes come in 28 different colors and you will get in confusion to choose one because all are amazing.

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Moreover, the material used to construct this shoe is leather for better durability, and the leather is imported. Plus, it offers extra grip to your foot. However, the cupsole design is made for breathability to keep your feet dry and prevent them from bad odor.

Furthermore, these are lightweight skate shoes and have enough room for your toes to relax. Anybody will love wearing this pair of skate shoes because they are so comfortable and your feet will be relaxed. Overall, this pair of skate shoes are affordable and you will never regret investing in this pair.

Physical Outlook
DC men is an extension of their amazing collection with many designs and styles. Net Lace up has a longer lace area with a strong and stretchable lace upper. You can clinch the eyelets to get your fitness. The upper is imported leather that means it is all the better. Discussing this the cupsole quality Is not far behind. The shoes weigh 1.85 and have dimensions 11.9 x 8 x 4.4 inches.

7. Reebok Work Men’s Soyay RB1910 Skate Style – Good material

Reebok skate style comes with a steel toe, and they are not slippery as they offer excellent grip to the skater. Even when the floor is wet, you will not slip, and you can have a solid grip on your feet. Moreover, it will give extra protection to your feet due to metal chips.

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Plus, the outer side of this skate shoe is made with tailex for absorbing the moisture. However, there is an EVA cushion for extra comfort, and it is removable for those who don’t need it. These are the most durable and best skateboard shoes. Furthermore, this pair of shoes can be worn for hiking or for a casual walk too. Plus, this pair is lightweight and gives your toe better protection. Lastly, extra padding will never let your feet hurt even, in the hard landings. Moreover, your feet will never be bruised.

Physical Outlook
Reebok has a combination of excellent materials that can be put together. While the upper is a suede rubber it offers less strained movement than full leather. Another layer of nylon mesh lining adds breathability to the shoes helping keep your feet dry. Additionally, the cup sole is grip master standard and can take on slippery surfaces like a champ.

8. Emerica Wino Cruiser Skate Shoe – Professional skate shoe

These best skateboard shoes are perfect for gifting to someone or buying for you for going on a holiday. These are lightweight and affordable.

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Moreover, teenagers can wear them to school, and it is also made for adults who weigh less than 100kg. Furthermore, it is made up of durable material. These are highly elastic and dust resistant. However, they are also rustproof comfortable to wear every day. Lastly, they are easy to clean, and these are made for good performance. Plus, these are long-lasting shoes.

Physical Outlook
Emerica Wino is a boring looking pair where more detail has been poured on the inside rather than the upper material. The lacing area is smaller, comprising less than five eyelets. The front covering the toes is rather long with slight padding giving protection to metatarsals. However, the Vulcanized sole is amazing and strongly out together. These weigh 8.6 ounces with dimensions 13 x 5 x 7 inches.

9. Etnies Swivel Skate Shoe – Lightweight

Etnies has made fantastic design with the super light material. Moreover, the scratched design is stunning and has abrasion resistance. Furthermore, the skid resistance makes it perform great with extra flexibility. However, these are comfortable for casual wear too. Plus, they have a good grip for the feet.

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Unfortunately, this skate shoe does not have many size options. Lucky are those who could find their size in this skate shoe. Overall, this pair performs very well, and when skating, they will never tear easily, due to its durable material. However, in the hard landings, it will protect your feet.

Physical Outlook
Etnies Swivel is a fashionable skate with a padded logo sewn along the side. It has an upstanding silhouette that resembles their egg crate construction. The position of midsole has a great part to play in that. The upper is suede attached to the 300 NBS rubber sole. These weigh 14.8 ounces with dimensions 11.5 x 8.03 x 4.41 inches.

10. Vans Men’s Docket Skate Suede Leather Logo Shoes – Imported fabric material

These best skateboard shoes are the most affordable and durable, but they are bulky and got the weight although they are made with pure leather material. Moreover, these are beautifully embroidered with the vans logo that makes the shoe popping.

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However, the cup sole of this footwear is very comfortable and offers full protection to your feet while skating or when you are hiking. Plus, the outer material is made of suede leather, but the inner material is made with cotton fabric that is comfy and soft. Overall, it is a best skateboard shoes and has gum rubber material for extra grip on the board, plus, the lace-up closure mechanism is for tightening the shoe.

Physical Outlook
A vans man is another classic black and white pair on this list. The Docket Van collection is heavy and bulkier. It is more suitable for injured and recovering skaters as the padding throughout the interior and along the sides is thick. Along with this the heel cupping in the insole is premium and prevents your heels from slipping their position. Due to heavy padding these weigh 2 pounds (Dimensions 9 x 6 x 4 inches)

11. Supra Men’s Shoes Stacks Style Suede Stake Sneakers – Durable

So, if you are finding a pair of skate shoes that delivers to give accurate function, you need to buy this pair of a skate shoe and throw your old ones. Moreover, this company has made this footwear with advanced technology to craft the most unique and special design.

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However, the low-pro shape offers the ultimate mobility to spare. Plus, it is extra padded for giving a cuff of ventilation and freshness. Furthermore, the upper material of this shoe is made of suede leather. And these best skateboard shoes are highly durable because they are strongly woven. And the rubber sole of this van is offering an excellent firm grip to your toe. Also, it has a powerful shock absorption feature for hard landings. Overall, these are best for skating and flossing as they are ideally crafted for it.

Physical Outlook
Supra men’s shoes are a great chance at skate redemption and improvement from your previous pair. The manufacturers have chosen the simplistic technique of using all suede for the upper as well as the rubber sole. It has a long drawn out silhouette suitable for larger and wider feet. These weigh 12 ounces and are 1 x 1 x 1 inches wide.

12. Osiris Men’s Protocol Skate Shoe – Imported leather

The Osiris Men’s Protocol Skate Shoe can be used for casual wear, but these are not the ordinary skating cleat. Plus, they are made with high-quality leather, with better durability and performance. Moreover, it absorbs the shocks even from the hardest landings.

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Its sole is made of rubber that improves the overall grip and has high abrasion areas for extra durability. However, the tongue and collar of the best skateboard shoes are extra padded for better support and comfort for the rider’s feet. Lastly, this pair will perform well on the road too. You just need to swipe the dirt after every use for making it look more natural like genuine leather shoes.

Physical Outlook
Osiris is a high quality streetwear that oozes years of glamor with the nubuck upper. Nubuck resembles leather but is more durable. As far as the looks go it looks more like suede and feels extremely comfy. The lower part of the skates has a traditional cupsole that holds its ends significantly. These weigh 2.15 pounds, which is slightly heavier than most skates on this list (Dimensions 12.3 x 8.7 x 4.8 inches).

13. Lakai Men’s Griffin Skate Shoes – Longlasting

Lakai is always known for its comfortable shoes, and they are making flexible shoes. Plus, they are lightweight and constructed by vulcs. Moreover, it has shock absorption technology and has extra padding for better support of the foot.

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But point to note here is that this shoe is made for the serious skaters who want to enhance their performance and skills in skating. However, these are double stitched for batter durability. But these best skateboard shoes skate shoes are quite expensive. Overall, these shoes are made for better grip, comfort, and stability when you ride on your skating board.

Physical Outlook
Lakai has been in the skate shoes business for a long time so they know what they are doing with shock breaking technology and orthotics inclusion. The low top opening gives freedom for movement while the thick tongue ensures you do not breach the troublesome freedom barrier. The lace up is a traditional 5 metal eyelet system with a strong synthetic sole. These weigh 15.4 ounces (Dimensions 15 x 13 x 7 inches).

14. Globe Men’s Sprout Skate Shoe – Flexible

These best skateboard shoes are high-quality skate shoes, with a sophisticated look. Moreover, these are well-made and have logo brand printing on its tongue and the lining.

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Plus, this has a classic look in two colors, black and white. Also, it has an elegant look with some small tags. Furthermore, these are versatile skate shoes. These can be used on many occasions such as in the office or at the meeting and even in the family dinner. Overall, it is a nice shoe with double wrap fitting and natrolite footbed for extra grip and support. Lastly, these are super lightweight and are very comfortable skate shoes to wear.

Physical Outlook
Globe Sprout skate is not to be taken lightly because the shaved suede entry along with the classy upper can take on many shoes. The upper is a combination of two colors that complement the thick outsole. Coming towards the outsole it is made of natrolite packed together to form a Herringbone pattern. The tread from that pattern is almost hard to escape from. These weigh more like an average skateboard pair.

15. IKE SB 819673 Skate Shoes – Comfortable

These best skateboard shoes are made of flexible high-top design. Moreover, it has a collar shape for the ankle area and the fitting is snug.

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Furthermore, one of the benefits of buying these Nike skate shoes is that it provides extra grip and support to your ankle and the feet. Plus, you get more than for what you bargained. Moreover, this design is great and has thick material at the same time. Furthermore, the ankle grip provides more flexible movement when you are skating, in short, it is a low-top and high-top skateboard shoes. Overall, it is a low maintenance skate shoe, and you will 100% love spending money on these skate shoes.

Physical Outlook
IKE has pushed aside the norms set by the skate shoes and bought a revolutionary shoe forward. Unlike the low top opening of all the skates above IKE has a foldable high top opening. You get to be a part of both experiences. They resemble sneakers to the inch with a thick toe sole that is equally wider as the heel area. These weigh on a medium scale for a skate shoe.

16. VANS Sk8-Hi Reissue Skate Shoes – Different colors available

These were the 1st skate shoe, with a preppy rugby style of 1966 and it gets a lot of compliments due to its style. Or people will ask you where to buy them?

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Unfortunately, this shoe gives less support to the arch. But these are very comfortable to wear on a casual day or in the office, besides skating. Moreover, it has a great fitting and excellent flexibility. Also, this vans pair of skate shoes is very reasonable and has an amazing grip, with a god board-feel.

Furthermore, these are durable, and the inner soul of the shoes are replaceable and you can put any other innersole for extra comfort and support according to your preference. Overall, this pair is suitable for skating and for casual days to wear. And they have a good grip at a reasonable price tag. So, it will roll the dice!

Physical Outlook
If you have seen our van men old school classics then this pair is no different than that the basic mechanism is the same however the addition of a high top opening and a thicker outsole makes it more attractive. If you want to insert an insole then the extra inner room will work in your favor. The standard vans strip is definitely an eye catching. These weigh 2.05 pounds as expected and have dimensions close to 12.4 x 8.3 x 4.9 inches.

Best Skate Shoes Buyers’ Guide For 2021

Before buying any of the skate shoes from any brand, there are some common things to keep in mind, for investing in the right skate shoes.

Style:

When buying a skate shoe, keep in mind that what is your riding style? Will these best skateboard shoes be able to withstand a light cleat or heavy impacts?

Vulcanized skate shoes are slim ones and you often wear them more casually as they have thinner soles and are very flexible. Moreover, they have an ideal maneuverability. Also, these will give you a better grip when you will flip the board. But they don’t have the shock absorption feature. So, you have to be careful about landing on hard surfaces, your feet may get some bruises because they lack cushioning.

Furthermore, another style of skate shoe is the cupsole ones, and these are specifically made for the skaters who perform tricks in the pool and land on hard surfaces such as stairs. They have the feature called shock absorption the keeps your feet free of bruises and for giving them full protection. Moreover, they have extra padding and cushioning inside them for better support and grip. Furthermore, these shoes have thicker soles with amazing breathability.

Durability:

It is a very important thing because when you are buying something and investing a good amount of money on any pair of skate shoes, they shall last long and should be durable for the long-term. Also, nobody wants to buy a pair of skateboard shoes that wear and tear quickly. No one will buy crap.

There are two things for making a shoe durable:

a) upper material

b) outer sole

The upper material is just an extra layer of padding for better support and protection of the feet. Moreover, it prevents the shoe from splitting. And the outer sole has to be good because it will make contact with the ground or road, this must be a solid thing and shouldn’t wear and tear quickly. Also, Flat soles are trendy and have better gum rubber to outperform and last longer.

Protection:

For protecting your skateboard footwear, the midsole, dual heel, and heel collar should be durable enough to protect your feet and themselves too. Generally, all the best skateboard shoes have a midsole that is super lightweight and flexible. So, this midsole is made with foam with many bubbles of gas.

These gas bubbles give an impact when you lift your feet from the road or off the ground. There is another type of foam too. That is known as Pu foam which is more substantial and denser and has better durability also. Moreover, the heel cushioning is for better protection and comfort. Also, it is perfect for shock absorption. Furthermore, the heel collar should be thick enough to prevent the shoe during maneuvers.

Comfort:

The most important thing while buying a shoe is comfort level. Also, it has a link between you and your brain and skateboard, and if your mind feels tired after riding with those skate shoes, you will not enjoy your ride. Also, you will not be able to perform the tricks with your skateboard.

Furthermore, they must be having a good amount of padding in them, and while riding it, the rider should not feel the heat because if you feel the heat, it will distract you. A comfortable pair will give you more confidence while riding the skateboard.

Fitting:

The fitting of the skate shoe should be accurate. The accurate fitting will help you in enhancing your skills. Always try to buy the shoe that fits you accurately with socks. Also, great fitting prevents injuries.

Grip:

Every skate shoe doesn’t have the best grip. But many of them do have a rubber sole for better grip, and the grip is usually made of gum. Also, it is for better hugging your skateboard from the feet perfectly. Before buying any new pair of skate shoes, make sure that it has many grips underneath it.

Material:

There are 3 types of material from which the skate shoes are made. Such as leather, full-grain, suede, and synthetic materials for their comfort, protection, durability, and better grip. Leather is a material that can be molded easily and also known for its solid strength. Some types of leather such as full-grain, Nu-buck, and action leather are used for manufacturing any skate shoe.

Full-grain material is very long-lasting and durable, and it is similar to action leather. Also, suede is made with excellent maneuverability and has a smooth finishing. But it has less durability compared to other shoe materials. Furthermore, synthetic materials are artificial materials that have similar properties to the skin. Also, this material is cheap and good for daily skating.

Toe Caps and Reinforcement:

These are essential or important for protecting your feet from bruises. Also, the material is rubber or leather for better durability. Moreover, it prevents the skate shoe from splitting.

Best Skate Shoes FAQs

Conclusion

As a result, we all know the fact that the best skate shoes will deliver the most joyful skate ride to you. Besides that, if you are going to purchase skate shoes, don’t forget to consider your budget and preference, and warranty period by the manufacturer.

Furthermore, we will suggest buying some of our favorite stake shoes that are Reebok Work Men’s Soyay Rb1910 Skate Style, Dc Men’s TraseTx Unisex Skate Shoe, and Dc Men’s Net Lace-Up Shoe.

So, that’s it for this article on the best skate shoes! Also, if you have any questions in my mind, feel free to leave them in the comment sections. I’ll be happy to answer your question. So, we hope this article will be informative for you. Thanks for visiting!