Buying advice - Skateshoes shoes

In the 60s , the skate shoe was almost non-existent, and because of the surf, we often skate barefoot. However in 1966, Vans launched a canvas shoe with a rubber sole, called # 44, which appears today as the first "skate shoes". Other brands will follow like "Hang Ten" or "Makaha".

In the 80s, skateboarding evolved, and skaters now wear high-top sneakers to protect their ankles. There remains the wear due to the grip! So "Vision" came up with high top sneakers with a plastic ollie pad. The first pro model "Natas Kaupas" appeared in 1987, and was produced by Etnies. From that moment on, the pro model became commonplace.

At the same time, the models return to a low version, to gain ankle flexion, and allow fluid movement for technical tricks.

Since 1995 , the skate shoe market has developed strongly, and many innovations have appeared: lightweight models, air bubbles, breathable mesh, reinforced ollie pads, lace protection ... However, since several years ago, we went back to basics: solid, understated and functional shoes with a flat soft rubber sole for good grip.

The price of shoes is determined by several factors
- the degree of technicality: we include the air bubble, the breathable mesh, the multiple lacing, and the neoprene liner, the number of seams, and the reinforced ollie pad ... All this gives a more expensive model.
- the pro model: as there is a payment of royalties to the skater whose model it is, the latter obviously comes out more expensive on sale.


When choosing a skate shoe, it is important to observe

- the material of the shoe: in fact, they will not age in the same way if they are made of suede or leather. Leather is generally stronger and ages better, but it grips less the grip and this is why many skaters will prefer suede.
- the "ollie pad": in general, all skate shoes are reinforced here (triple stitching, double layer in suede or leather ...), and some models are even reinforced with plastic parts, very resistant. If you wear your shoes a lot in this area, turn to this type of model.
- the laces: with the ollie pad, this is the other point of wear. To remedy this, almost all shoes come with a second set of laces. Some models also have or double lacing system (internal and external).

If, despite all the precautions, you still wear out your shoes too quickly, you still have the "Shoe Goo" solution. It is a special glue that is applied to the shoe to strengthen it on the points of wear. In this case, we forget the aesthetics and we focus on efficiency!

Vans size chart

Size chart éS, Etnies, Emerica