Skate shoes, more often than not, sacrifice key components to enhance overall board feel. Most skate shoes run flat, and seeking those that provide exceptional comfort is challenging. While doing extensive research, I’ve uncovered the best ones.
So, what are the most comfortable skate shoes? The most comfortable and durable skate shoe I’ve ever worn is the Es Accel OG. Thick padding around the ankles and a giant tongue hug your feet. They’re one of the most iconic skate shoes ever created. Not to mention one of the all-time best-sellers.
Skate shoe designs vary by brand and pro-model. So, I’ve researched because most advertisements claim “superior comfort”. What does that mean? Assembly requires using a variety of foams, rubbers, and materials.
What Makes A Skate Shoe Comfortable?
They develop skate shoes for skateboarding… right? Well, contrary to belief, they’re popular as a casual style of wear outside of skateboarding. The problem is finding a proper fit that’s not suffocating your feet while providing maximum durability.
I’ve encountered occasions where uncomfortable experiences present themselves. You try on a shoe, and everything feels great. As you skate, pain creeps up slowly. And when this happens, you’re better off on your board to prevent unnecessary sores.
What makes up a comfortable shoe?. It’s identifying the size, shape, stability, and style. This article covers various problems you may run into, such as identifying foot size, and which brands adjust best for those with wide or narrow feet.
Choose The Right Size
When selecting a pair of skate shoes, you want the right fit. You’ll want to consider functionality by keeping feet in a secure location. The right size shoe is important in avoiding severe consequences. Trying shoes on in the evening is the best, as your feet swell in the afternoon due to fluid change. In the morning, your feet are smallest.
Pay attention to these areas:
Neck of the big toe
Inner big toe
Outer pinky toe
Inner arch
Outer arch
Around the ankle
Whatever you do, avoid a tight-fitting shoe. A pair will present itself that fits perfectly with patience. Here, go a half size larger as this may fit better. If the results benefit you, go for it. You’ll avoid your heels from flopping out, or toes feeling too far from the end of the toe-cap. Move on to another choice until you find a snug fit.
Break-In Period
Pain and discomfort may sneak up later on if you plan on skateboarding right out of the box shoes. They’ll feel tight around the toes, rub against heels, and pinch every step you take. This lasts only a couple of days, depending on the time you spend wearing them.
My last pair took three days to break in. As I knew, the outcome of wearing them too long resulted in extensive pain. The solution is to walk around for an hour or two, then take off my feet to breathe.
Shape (Cuts)
Not much emphasis is placed when deciding shape. A “cut” refers to the shape. Several examples below give a better understanding.
A wider cut is not too tight around arches. Narrow shoes are tight around the middle, offer a stable fit and better stance, less comfortable if you have wide feet.
My recommendation for first-timers is to try many brands and models. Skate shoes, unlike various styles of running, basketball, or hiking footwear, fit differently.
StabilityThe stability
Stability of a shoe focuses on how rigid your foot structure is. If you have wide, flat feet, you need a stable shoe. If you have high arches, well-cushioned, flexible shoes will suit you best.
A stable shoe prevents over-pronation, which causes the ankle to roll too far downward and inward while stepping. Over time, we develop excessive strain, and common in people with flat feet.
Ventilation/Breathability
Nobody likes stinky, sweaty feet. A well-ventilated shoe plays a pivotal role in overall comfort. Breathing holes (perforations) in shoes upper areas such as the toe cap, aid in circulating air to prevent moisture. Designs include perforations along the side and mesh materials, including the tongue.
Thicker padding increases the likelihood of sweat pooling. After a few weeks, insoles smell terrible. Applying a dash of odor-eliminating powder or spray fixes this. Worse worst-case scenario is buying new shoes or insoles.
Canvas materials are lighter and more breathable than suede. The problem is a less durable. Emerica’s line of footwear has been known for solid breathability.
Lightweight/Flexible
We want the appeal of a lightweight design for many reasons. Greater board-feel, breathability, and cushion, to name a few. Vulcanized designs are the best in terms of thin layers of materials and various sole design tech.
Style
Aside from comfort, aesthetics are an important consideration. We classify skate shoes as a minimalist style shoe. Basic, yet focuses on bold characteristics that fit anyone, whether or not you’re a skater.
Common Style Features
Upper materials:
- Quarters cover the side and back of the foot.
- Vamp covers the top of the foot at the center and the front of the foot. Secures the foot with supportive fabric.
- Eyelets are the lacing part of the shoe for adjustability.
- Tongue allows laces a proper fit.
- Toe caps come separately stitched to the vamp or material stitched over the vamp.
Alongside features, we can find an array of diverse styles. Varieties of shapes and styles allow you to diversify and develop your preference. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight, flexible design or durability. There’s one out there catering to your personal needs.
Styles Of Skate Shoes:
- Bulky
- Hi-cut
- Mid-cut
- Low-cut
- Cupsole
- Vulcanized
- Low-Vulc
- Slip-ons
Insoles
Insoles are the key to a comfortable skate shoe. You may replace insoles in several skate shoes that offer this choice. Features allow a fresh start from wear and tear, not to mention the stink! Switching to orthotics is another reason removable insoles come in handy.
Brand insoles are composed of durable EVA. A heat-resistant material that allows expansion. Swapping out insoles may make an entire world of difference. For many skaters, it has changed their lives. Orthotic insoles improve mechanical efficiency and reduce pain.
They make common materials insoles from foam, cork, gel, and leather. Foam is best for cushion and pressure relief, while gel offers shock absorption. Cork and leather work best for support and cushion. Insoles lower the risk of serious conditions from starting or developing further.
Common Foot Problems
- Plantar fasciitis
- Arch Pain
- Over-Pronation
- Standing for long periods
- Morton’s Nuroma
- Ball of the foot pain
- Supination
- Shin splints
- Diabetes & arthritis
- Heel spurs & heel pain
Common Foot Structures And Issues
The most common foot structures are people with high arches and flat feet. It’s impossible to design a skate shoe to fit everyone. There are many shapes and sizes you can select. Identifying your arch is important. It affects the way your foot functions and is critical for support. In the following passage, I offer insight and options best for your foot type.
High Arches
Other than superb impact support, skate shoes are flat with little support, anare d hard for those with high arches and narrow feet. Heel pain and ball-of-foot pain are common symptoms with high arches. High arches may lead to medical conditions and symptoms:
- Ankle Instability
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Calluses
- Bunions
- Foot Rigidity
- Pes Cavus (Claw Foot)
- Fat Pad Atrophy
A solution to this is high-arched insoles to remedy any potential pain or stiffness. Spending my time researching, the best choice is a low-top style shoe:
- Adidias busnetiz
- Lakais
- Tweed Vaiders
- Nike SB Janoskis
- Vans Kyle Walker
- Emerica wino cruisers
- Nike Team Classics
- Vans Chukka low
Comfortable Skate Shoes For Wide Feet
Nothing is worse than a tight skate shoe that hurts your feet. Blisters and bunions are no joke, and you’ll want to avoid this problem. Just because a shoe measures according to your specifics, doesn’t mean it matches.
A way to check if you have wide feet is by measuring them from the widest part of your foot. Your feet may spread, appearing larger if you have this condition. Outlining paper, you can then measure and compare it to the chart below. The smallest width is AA, and the largest is 4E.
Skateboarding Shoe Sizes
| Size | Width |
|---|---|
| 3-1/4 Inches | AA |
| 3-7/16th Inches | A |
| 5/8 Inches | B |
| 13/16th Inches | C |
| 4 Inches | D |
| 4-1/8th Inches | E |
| 4-5/16th Inches | EE |
| 4-1/2 Inches | EEE |
| 4-11/16th Inches | 4E |
Skate shoes to consider for wide feet:
- Adidas Adi Ease
- Lakai griffin
- Reynolds
- Etnies marana
- Emerica indicator low
- Globe CT-IV’s
- Vans Sk8 Hi Classics
- VansChukka Loww
- Emerica westgates
- New Balance Numeric
Are Skateboarding Shoes Bad For Your Feet?
You may wonder if skate shoes are bad for your feet. The answer may go both ways, with whom you ask. Provided they’re a flat, unsupportive shoe with a minimal arch support, there’s reason for concern. Acknowledging information from above, it comes down to how you care for your feet.
As someone who spends a majority of time walking, skate shoes aren’t ideal. I’ve experienced developing soreness surrounding my heels and the outer arch area, while others fit perfectly. Switching to running shoes has been a life changer outside of skating.
Cozy Skate Shoes For Winter
Manufacturers redefine platforms by implementing advanced sole technology. Profile soles, give cupsole and vulcanized shoes improvements in board feel, grip, and wear in harsh winter months.
Winter shoes come in the form of heavy-duty skate shoes and high-top boots. These are coated with fuzzy interiors and water-resistant features. Brands from DC, DVS, Etnies, and Vans, to name a few, carry these.
Final Thoughts
Having gone through many skate shoes over the years, it’s been a challenge to find one that’s comfortable, especially while skating. Get a feel for which shoes provide room without strangling your feet or leaving your socks drenched in sweat.
The list I’ve provided should help you match your style and comfort with what you’re looking for. Any recommendations you have, feel free to leave them in the comment section below.
