With the ever-increasing popularity of skateboarding and the revival of skate style in recent years, skatewear has come a long way from its subcultural roots, firmly carving out a place for itself in mainstream fashion. So it’s safe to say that there are plenty of choices when it comes to finding the perfect pair of men’s skate shoes.
The best skate shoes for men combine comfort, support and, of course, good looks. Depending on your regular shoes, they may differ somewhat from your everyday kicks, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wear them when you’re not nailing flips. In fact, the beauty of skate shoes is their versatility – which is why they’ve been so easily adopted by a wider style set. Pair it with baggy cargo shorts and a chunky tee in the skate park, or kick it up a notch and master the smart-casual style by contrasting the understated look of skate shoes with a more formal fit. (Check out our guide to wearing sneakers to a summer wedding to master the look.)
So whether you’re a true skateboarding pro, a hobbyist looking to up your game, or just a fan of skate style, we’ve rounded up some of the best men’s skate shoes on the market today. From canvas kicks to suede sneakers; from ankle-supporting high-tops to flexible low-tops, you’ll find a pair for every style and every need.
The best men’s skate shoes in 2022
Cariuma CATIBA Pro
Brazilian sneaker brand Cariuma describes its CATIBA Pro model as “a new kind of skate shoe made for you and the planet.” For every pair purchased, two trees are planted to help restore and protect Brazil’s rainforests. The signature style is durably crafted from premium suede and organic cotton canvas and features a non-slip natural rubber sole and memory foam sockliner that mimics the anatomy of the foot for support. the arch of the foot and ultimate comfort.
LØCI ELEVEN sneakers
These trainers from London-based brand LØCI are as durable as they are stylish, made from vegan materials and recycled plastics. Cork is used for the insoles and midsoles, to provide comfort, weight distribution, minimal impact force and reduced joint stress, while the mesh lining is made of breathable bamboo for resistance to shocks. odors and moisture prevention. A structured mid-rise top provides ultimate ankle support.
CLAE Malone sneakers
CLAE’s iconic Malone model is sleek and sporty, perfect for tackling those skate tricks in style. The upper is crafted from a combination of Italian Nappa leather and suede, providing a unique contrast between textures. With their sturdy rubber sole, they’re ready for whatever you have in store. Pair them with everything from baggy jeans to tailored pants.
SAYE Modelo ’70 sneakers
Barcelona-based label SAYE have become cult for their retro-inspired vegan trainers and like everyone else, we just can’t get enough of them. One of the coolest styles to cross our radar is the all-new Modelo ’70. It features a classic skate-inspired silhouette that will pair perfectly with any pants or shorts you’re wearing. Plus, since they’re made from an eco-friendly combination of vegan corn leather, bamboo, and recycled rubber, this is a purchase you can feel good about.
ETQ Amsterdam LT 01 sneakers in premium suede
ETQ Amsterdam’s iconic and best-selling LT 01 style has been reimagined in ultra-soft suede, meticulously crafted from a single unlined piece of leather. Natural rubber outsoles will help you maintain traction on your skateboard, while removable memory foam insoles provide breathability and help manage moisture. All of this without even mentioning the super sleek styling that is guaranteed to turn heads for the right reasons.
Oliver Cabell vegan sneakers 481
Oliver Cabell – masters of minimalist leather sneakers – turned to vegan sneakers, and the result is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The sleek upper is made in Italy from a combination of corn waste and bio-based polyurethane. In tandem with a partially recycled rubber sole, the result is a shoe with considerably lower carbon emissions than conventional sneakers. Plus, they look the part, with a sporty, old-school inspired silhouette.
Lakai Cambridge Sneakers
These men’s skate shoes from stalwart of the skate scene Lakai are made from a combination of suede, mesh and perforated synthetic leather, for a classic, contemporary look that’s a stylish upgrade to the iconic skate style from Cali. An ultra-durable vulcanized outsole provides ultimate grip and will ensure you’re up to snuff whether you’re skating through a storm or meeting friends at your local watering hole.
Vans Sk8-Hi Shoes
This legendary style from Vans – one of the OG skate shoe brands – has been a favorite of skaters and style enthusiasts since its debut in the ’70s. comfort, reinforced toe caps for durability and padded collars for support and flexibility. You simply cannot go wrong.
Adidas Busenitz Pro Trainers
Produced in collaboration with legendary skater Dennis Busenitz, Adidas’ Busenitz Pro trainers are rugged yet refined, designed for Dennis’ signature all-terrain skating, but without skimping on style. A durable textile upper, sturdy cupsole construction and supportive Geofit collar will have you ready to take on anything.
Converse CONS Chuck Taylor All Star Pro
Taking all the essential design cues from the original 1917 All Star, Converse have incorporated performance technology to produce a skate staple. A mid-rise rubber-lined canvas upper provides support while additional padding helps absorb impact. The best part? They will look as stylish as they do at the skate park.
Do you like leather? Check out our pick of the best leather sneakers to buy now.
