Ever wonder what gives skate shoes that cool, high-top look? Maybe you’ve seen pros rocking them, or perhaps you just like the style. High-top skate shoes offer extra ankle support, which is a big deal when you’re trying new tricks or just cruising around. But let’s be real: picking the perfect pair can feel like a grind. Do you go for suede or canvas? How much padding do you really need? It’s easy to get lost in all the features and forget what matters most for your feet and your riding.
Choosing the wrong high-tops can lead to sore ankles or shoes that fall apart too fast. That’s why we are diving deep into the world of high-top skate shoes. We will break down the must-know features, from durable materials to the best fits for different skating styles. By the end of this post, you will know exactly what to look for to keep your ankles safe and your style sharp. Get ready to lace up and learn how to choose the ultimate high-top skate shoe!
Top Skate Shoes High Tops Recommendations
- TIMELESS DESIGN: Drawing inspiration from the high-top basketball sneakers of the '80s, these PUMA kicks alley-oop the comfort factor to ensure feet and ankles are supported from top to bottom.
- ENHANCED TECHNOLOGY: Utilizes PUMA's SoftFoam+, a step-in comfort sockliner designed to provide soft cushioning thanks to its extra thick heel.
- EYE-CATCHING: Features a synthetic leather upper. The iconic PUMA Formstrip stretches along the side and the look is completed with subtle branding embellishments.
- COMFORT AND SUPPORT: Mid-height with a padded collar adds extra stability and a lace closure for a snug fit.
- WEATHER-READY SNEAKERS: Bringing off-pavement protection to a vintage skate-inspired silhouette, the Men's Ashwood Hi Vansguard keeps you moving in style, no matter what's on the forecast.
- OUTDOOR VERSATILITY: Weatherized suede and mesh uppers with a non-PFC Durable Water-Repellent (DWR) finish keep you dry in rainy conditions, while the treaded reverse waffle outsole provides enhanced grip and durability beyond the sidewalk.
- STYLE & COMFORT: Made to look and feel great every day of the week, these fashion sneakers feature the classic Vans Sidestripe and have soft padded tongues and collars that prevent rubbing while walking long distances.
- BUILT TO LAST: Rubber toe and heel caps protect against rocks, roots, and uneven pavement, while metal shoelace eyelets and sturdy vulcanized construction ensure lasting durability – season after season.
- HERITAGE MEETS MODERN MOVEMENT: Vans has been setting trends since 1966, bringing creativity and individuality to every step. The Ashwood Hi Vansguard continues that legacy, delivering bold street style that stands up to the elements.
- Iconic styling with reinforced high abrasion areas for superior durability
- Lightweight padded tounge and collar for added comfort and support
- Abrasion resistant rubber outsole for wear, durability and performance
- Comes with slip-resistant and durable sole
- Assures long lasting durability
- Air permeability for long hours on your foot
- DC SHOES: We're passionate about skateboarding and we spend as much time on our skateboards as we do in the design lab so that we can always be ahead of the trends when it comes to knowing what skateboarders need to perform at their best
- ★ ANTI SLIP & DURABLE: We use a durable rubber outsole to make shoes offer better cushioning, more stability and provide long term use
- ★ SOFT & BREATHABLE: Soft and breathable lining, lock your foot in the right place and protect your ankle from injury by offering better support
- ★ STYLISH DESIGN: Fashion design with Brilliant colors, stable support for casual and school occasion
- Mid-top design
- Hook and loop tape closure strap with Elastic Waist laces
- Toe cap overlay for extra durability
- Foam padded tongue and collar for added comfort and support
- Vulcanized construction for great board-feel and sole flex
- Upper material:PU,chinese style pattern
- Sole material:rubber sole,thick sole bottom,fashion style,very soft,excellent rebound effect,and lightweight,Shock absorption,provide strong protection for ankle and knee
- PU upper,Durable, breathable hole design, easy to scrub, and splash resistant
- The comfortable and breathable PU inner lining has fine texture and good flexibility, giving gentle care to the feet
- Suitable for many occasion:skateboarding,driving,road running,tennis,fitness,GYM,hiking,walking,daily wear
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Skate Shoes High Tops
Skate shoes high tops offer great ankle support and a classic style. They protect your ankles when you land tricks. This guide helps you choose the best pair for your skating needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
Good skate shoes need specific features for performance and safety.
Ankle Support and Padding
High tops wrap around your ankle. This stops sprains and scrapes. Look for thick padding inside the collar. More padding means better comfort and protection, especially when learning new tricks.
Outsole Construction
The bottom of the shoe (outsole) matters most for grip. Vulcanized soles offer great board feel. Cupsole construction is thicker and lasts longer. Choose the one that fits your skating style. Street skaters often prefer vulcanized soles for better control.
Lacing System
Strong laces keep your shoes tight. Some shoes use reinforced eyelets. This stops the laces from ripping quickly when you ollie. A good lockdown system keeps your foot secure during intense sessions.
2. Important Materials
The materials decide how long your shoes last and how they feel.
Upper Materials
- Suede: This is the best material for skating. It resists abrasion well. Suede grips the grip tape better than canvas.
- Leather: Durable, but sometimes stiff at first. It molds to your foot over time.
- Canvas: Lightweight and breathable. However, canvas wears out very fast with heavy skating.
Sole Materials
Most quality skate shoes use durable rubber compounds for the outsole. This rubber needs to grip the skateboard deck tightly. The midsole material affects cushioning. Look for EVA foam or PU inserts for shock absorption.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality comes from how the shoe is put together.
Stitching Quality
Double or triple stitching in high-wear areas significantly improves durability. Poor stitching means the shoe falls apart after just a few weeks of skating. Reinforced toe caps also increase shoe life.
Grip Tape Adhesion
A good shoe sticks to the grip tape. Shoes with deep tread patterns on the sole usually offer better grip. If the sole is too smooth, you lose control on the board.
Water Resistance
While most skate shoes are not waterproof, treated suede resists light moisture better than canvas. Wet shoes reduce board feel and can cause blisters. Quality materials repel water slightly longer.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you skate.
Street Skating
Street skaters need maximum durability and board feel. They often land on ledges and stairs. Suede high tops with vulcanized soles are usually the top choice here. They need shoes that handle heavy impact.
Park Skating (Ramps and Bowls)
Ramp skaters need excellent cushioning for big drops. Cupsole construction often provides better impact protection. Ankle support is crucial when riding transitions quickly.
Casual Wear
If you just wear them for style, comfort is key. Any material works fine. Look for brighter colors and softer insoles for all-day walking comfort.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Skate Shoe High Tops
Q: Are high tops better than low tops for skating?
A: High tops give more ankle protection. Low tops give more ankle flexibility. Choose high tops if you worry about ankle rolls or scrapes.
Q: How long should a good pair of skate shoes last?
A: For heavy skaters, a quality pair should last one to three months. Casual skaters might get six months or more.
Q: Do high tops restrict movement too much?
A: Modern high tops use flexible padding. They feel restrictive only for the first few wears. After they break in, movement is usually fine.
Q: What is the main difference between vulcanized and cupsole?
A: Vulcanized soles are thinner, giving great board feel. Cupsole soles are thicker, offering better impact protection and durability.
Q: Should I buy my true size?
A: Most skate shoes fit true to size. If you plan to wear very thick socks, you might go up half a size for comfort.
Q: Why do my shoes get holes so fast?
A: Holes happen where the grip tape rubs the most, usually near the toe area. You need shoes made with reinforced suede or rubber toe caps.
Q: Can I wash my suede skate shoes?
A: You should avoid soaking suede shoes in water. Gently brush off dirt with a dry brush. Use special suede cleaner if they get very dirty.
Q: Is canvas ever a good choice for high tops?
A: Canvas is good if you are just cruising or learning very basic flat-ground tricks. It is not recommended for serious street or ramp skating.
Q: What does ‘board feel’ mean?
A: Board feel is how well you sense the skateboard beneath your feet. Thin, flexible soles give you better board feel.
Q: Do I need special socks for high tops?
A: Medium-thickness socks work best. They prevent rubbing inside the high collar. Very thin socks might let the shoe rub directly on your ankle skin.