The Best Skate Shoes
We had a team of skaters test each shoe, spending weeks skating in each model to learn how they fit, feel, and perform. From freestyle to cruising, we skated countless hours to learn how these shoes differ in critical areas like comfort, board feel, durability, and traction. So, whether you need some shoes to cruise around in occasionally or you're a dedicated skater who's out shredding every day, we identify the pair of kicks to fit your style, budget, or skill level.
Our favorite skate shoe overall is the Emerica Pillar Mid. They're comfortable, durable, supportive, and provide great board feel. For a quality shoe that's still affordable, we recommend the DC Kalis Vulc. Our testers found the break-in time for this shoe was minimal, and they offer a great board feel. However, there is less ankle support and the thinner soles are less protective on impact.
If you're looking for a new deck, we've also tested some of the best skateboards on the market, too.
Editor's Note: We updated our skate shoe review on December 9, 2024, adding specs charts for our award winners.