The Best Skate Shoes of 2023

In 2023, modern skate shoes have raised the bar in terms of performance, comfort, and style. From iconic brands to innovative designs, each shoe brings a unique set of features that cater to the diverse needs of skateboarders. Whether you're seeking classic aesthetics, modern technology, or a perfect blend of both, our list of the top 10 best skate shoes of the year will have you covered.

Before getting into our top 10 list, we highly recommend checking out our section at the bottom of this page which covers how to choose the best skate shoes for your needs and our shoe review criteria for this article. Understanding these points should help you better understand important shoe qualities to look for, but ultimately, you can't go wrong with any of the shoes our experts have picked. Let's take a look at the best skate shoes of the year!

Celebrating Alexis Sablone’s top-level skillset and unmistakable style, Converse Cons comes through with a pro shoe that is equally on her level. The AS-1 is the brand’s most innovative skate shoe to date, offering a retro look and cupsole design, while still offering optimum boardfeel and proper impact protection while skating. Alexis Sablone is a certified legend, not just in Women’s skateboarding, but in skateboarding in general. Now she has a shoe to match her status.

Key features of the Converse AS-1 Pro Skate Shoes:

• Alexis Sablone pro model skate shoe
• The first female pro skate shoe by Converse Cons
• CX Foam sockliner for impact protection
• Engineered coring built into the cupsole for increased cushioning

The Nike SB Blazer Low Pro GT Shoes hold a special place in the skateboarding world, taking the classic Blazer shoe and creating more skateable features with the insight of pro skateboarder, Grant Taylor. The Zoom Unit cushioning technology in the sole provides superior low-profile impact protection while the vulcanized sole offers excellent boardfeel and grip. This shoe is a gold standard and can be seen on the feet of skateboarders around the world.

Key features of the Nike SB Blazer Low Pro GT Shoes:

• A timeless Nike SB shoe with skateable technology
• Design insights by pro skateboarder Grant Taylor
• Low-cut collar for natural, comfortable ankle fit
• Vulcanized construction for flexibility
• Nike Zoom Unit in heel for low-profile impact protection and support
• Rubber outsole with herringbone pattern

After feeling unhappy with the current state of skate shoes, Polar skateboards owner Pontus Alv decided to “shut up and do something about it.” Made solely with skateboarding in mind, Last Resort AB shoes offer simple yet timeless silhouettes with all the necessary components needed to make skateboarders happy. Last Resort AB team rider Chris Milic is the first to receive a pro shoe from the brand and has established that the VM004 is a true skateboarder’s shoe.

Key features of the Last Resort AB VM004 Milic Lo Shoes:

• Chris Milic pro model skate shoe
• Cupped midsole
• Cloudy Cush insoles for extra comfort
• Padded collar
• Multi-layer reinforcement at the toe for durability

Originating from a heritage soccer shoe, the Adidas Samba ADV Shoes have seamlessly transitioned into skateboarding culture. With iconic three-stripe branding and classic cupsole construction, the Samba ADV has seen a resurgence in 2023. The Samba ADV stands as a symbol of Adidas adapting its rich history to the skateboarding world.

Key features of the Adidas Samba ADV Shoes:

• A heritage soccer shoe revamped for skateboarding
• Internal mesh bootie for high comfort and responsive fit
• Comfortable PU lining
• Molded PU sockliner for comfort and impact cushioning
• Molded TPU heel clip for increased support
• Directional herringbone tread pattern for amazing grip and board control

Started in 2021, Hours is Yours is a skater-owned footwear company, led by co-owner and Baker team rider, Bryan Herman. Alongside his top-tier legacy riding for Baker, Herman is also known for his innovation in the skate shoe world. His new Hours Code Shoes are a redesign of his Emerica G-Code shoe, which was one of the best selling pro models of the generation before. Hours is destined for greatness and the second you try on the Herman Code Shoes, you'll know why.

Key features of the Hours is Yours Herman Code Shoes:

• Brian Herman pro model skate shoe
• Based on his Emerica G-Code shoe
• Goddess Insoles for maximum comfort
• Vulcanized outsole for easy boardfeel
• Updated tongue straps
• Recessed eye-stay

A blast from the past, the Es Accel OG is a reissue of the iconic '90s skate shoe. Known for its unmatched durability and padded tongue and collar, this shoe offers exceptional protection and comfort for heavy impact landings and intense skate sessions. The Accel OG's straightforward design is a nod to street skateboarding's earlier days, representing a style that remains relevant as a symbol of authenticity.

Key features of the Es Accel OG Shoes:

• A reissue of the classic ‘90s Accel
• STI open cell foam for foot contact, boardfeel, cushioning & control
• Perforated suede quarter panel made for skateboarding
• 400 NBS gum rubber outsole to last longer
• Part of the A – Series: classic Es design brings together timeless function & style

The Lakai Manchester Skate Shoes demonstrate that simplicity and performance can coexist seamlessly. The peoples champ since 2007, the Lakai Manchester is an easy to break in shoe that shows Lakai's dedication to producing footwear that caters to everyone from the skatepark hero, to technical ledge skaters and everything between.

Key features of the Lakai Manchester Skate Shoes:

• A best selling Lakai skate shoe since 2007
• Vulcanized construction
• Lakai PARA-MOUNT outsole for excellent flex and grip
• Hex-Tread outsoles provide flexibility and boardfeel
• DELUX-LITE premium sock liner for arch support
• Tongue straps for stability

Offering a skateboarder’s perspective to the iconic Chuck Taylor, the Converse CTAS Pro Hi Skate Shoes are undeniably a favorite on and off the board. The CTAS Pro Hi showcases easy boardfeel, proper airflow, and a perfect amount of grip, while still capturing the classic Chuck Taylor look. These shoes honor Converse's history while embracing skateboarding's progress.

Key features of the Converse CTAS Pro Hi Skate Shoes:

• A skate version of the Converse Chuck Taylor
• High-top profile for ankle support
• Nike Zoom Air OrthoLite insole for boardfeel and impact protection
• Synthetic suede interior keeps foot locked into the shoe
• Elastic tongue straps
• Cons rubber outsole adds excellent grip and structure to shoe
• Medial eyelets enhance airflow

Originally appearing in the early ‘80s on the basketball court, the New Balance Numeric 480 is now re-introduced and remixed in 2023 for skateboarder’s feet. Thoughtfully crafted with a FuelCell midsole and Abzorb insole, the 480 also includes a reinforced upper, meaning you can skate these shoes longer and more comfortably.

Key features of the New Balance Numeric 480 Shoes:

• An ‘80s court shoe made for modern skateboarding
• A favorite of New Balance Numeric team riders
• FuelCell foam delivers for enhanced comfort
• Reinforced toe cap for extra durability

The Vans Skate Half Cab Shoes are synonymous with skateboarding history, paying tribute to legendary skater and Bones Brigade original, Steve Caballero. For over 30 years, the Half Cab has reigned supreme, seen on the feet of all the biggest names from the ‘90s, 2000’s, and current day. The timeless silhouette hasn’t changed much, but the modern day technology of the Skate Half Cab has definitely improved, Now more comfortable and durable than ever, the Skate Half Cab is a perfect skate shoe for any age or skill level.

Key features of the Vans Skate Half Cab Shoes:

• One of the most influential skate shoes of all time
• Newly renovated by Vans and now titled the “Skate Half Cab”
• Vans Duracap rubber inlays in high wear areas prevent blowouts
• Extra deep tread in Vans waffle outsole, creates longer lasting wear and less slip on the bottom of the shoe

For over 20 years, we've been asked by skaters, "What are the best skate shoes?" - To which we answer, it depends on various shoe qualities and how you value them. When it comes to selecting the perfect pair of skate shoes, understanding skate shoe qualities and doing a little research goes a long way.

The shoe qualities that we'll cover next serve as the basis for our review criteria and what we value in shoes. Our skate experts have tested each pair of shoes while skating for multiple hours, have collected customer feedback, and have graded each pair of shoes accordingly. Let's dive into the 5 most important qualities that you should consider when shopping for a new pair of skate shoes.

1. Foot Comfort

Picture yourself skating in a shoe that feels far from comfortable. They feel awkward on your feet, cause blisters, don't offer the right amount of support, etc. - not an appealing thought, right? The optimal skate shoe should fit snugly on your foot, striking a balance between a secure fit and excessive tightness. This fit balance combined with your desired level of support should offer a comfortable and natural feel. Additionally, you should consider shoe materials or features and how they can affect breathability. Breathability is more key if you skate in hot climates or have extra sweaty feet!

2. Durability

Skateboarding naturally creates a ton of wear-and-tear on your shoes from repetition of ollies, flip tricks, and even pushing. As a beginner, technology matters less, but as you progress and learn different tricks, durability becomes extremely important and should be considered when choosing a skate shoe.

3. Board Feel

Board feel is a little trickier to feel as a beginner skater but more experienced skateboarders know how much of a difference a good pair of skate shoes can make at a session. In general, if you have skated in your shoes for hours and feel like you still can barely feel the skateboard under you, it could mean that your shoes may not be the most ideal choice. For beginners, we highly recommend experimenting with different types and or brands of shoes to see what gives you the best level of feel.

4. Shoe Style & Aesthetics

All the best shoe qualities in the world won't matter if you don't want to wear your shoes because of their appearance. You should be able to look down and like the style of your shoes! Whether you prefer more of a minimalist style or enjoy more bold designs, there's plenty of skate shoe designs to choose from.

5. Price Point

Determining the appropriate price point depends entirely on your personal preferences. While we can't definitively state what's too pricey or too good of a deal, we can offer some insight. Often, a higher price point translates to more technology or durability. This longevity eventually means more cost savings over time, as you won't need to replace your shoes as frequently. Additionally, the break in period for shoes can be challenging but some skaters like having newer pairs of shoes. To cater to skaters with different budgets, our top shoe picks offer a wide range of prices.

Understanding these qualities and how they can impact your comfort, performance, and financial preferences should allow you to select the best pair of skate shoes for your needs. It may take some experimentation to find that perfect pair, but our list of top skate shoes should help jumpstart your selection!

Prioritizing your shoe selection is extremely important for your skating, and you can’t go wrong with the above choices. We hope these top picks have narrowed down your decision for finding the pair of skate shoes that are right for you! If you have any further questions or need more assistance, you can always reach out to our helpful customer service team at info@skatewarehouse.com or at 1-800-GO-SKATE.