Ever had your feet slip right when you needed to carve a sharp turn on your longboard? That sudden slide can definitely ruin a good ride, or worse, cause a nasty fall! Choosing the right shoes for longboarding is more than just picking a cool-looking pair. You need grip, comfort, and durability all rolled into one. Many riders struggle with shoes that wear out too fast or simply don’t stick to the board’s grip tape.
Finding that perfect balance between board feel and protection can feel like a constant battle. You want shoes that let you feel the board beneath your feet, but you also need tough materials that stand up to constant friction. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This guide breaks down exactly what features matter most when picking your next pair of longboarding shoes.
By the end of this post, you will know the secrets to selecting footwear that locks you onto your board for safer, smoother rides every time. Get ready to ditch those slippery sneakers and step into the perfect pair!
Top Shoes For Longboarding Recommendations
- UPGRADED LOW-TOP LOOK: Combining a simple, practical design with enhanced cushioning and sleek style details, the Men's Atwood Deluxe covers all the bases – and then some. The perfect low-top shoes for just about anything
- UNDERSTATED STYLE: Featuring premium textile uppers, accented with sleek Vans logo details on the side and tongue, these fashion sneakers for men offer a clean, elevated look that doesn't skip out on comfort
- ENHANCED CUSHIONING: With a deluxe padded heel & collar, self-centering tongue, and dual-density removable insole, these shoes deliver ultimate comfort and support – plus Vans' signature rubber waffle outsole for better grip and flexibility
- BUILT TO LAST: With metal shoelace eyelets, durable vulcanized construction, and high-quality upgraded materials, the men's Atwood Deluxe is made for daily wear – whether you're at a concert, the office, or anywhere in between
- HERITAGE MEETS MODERN STYLE: Vans has been setting trends since 1966, bringing creativity and individuality to every step. The Atwood Deluxe continues that legacy, delivering an elevated low-top with top-tier style and support
- DURABLE BLACK SUEDE UPPER – Crafted for longevity, these skateboard shoes for men feature a reinforced suede and mesh design that balances flexibility and comfort, making them an ideal skate shoe for men, whether on the board or in daily wear.
- HIGH-TRACTION GUM SOLE FOR BOARD CONTROL – Designed with a vulcanized rubber outsole and hex-tread pattern, these men’s skate shoes provide grip, board feel, and impact resistance—ideal for technical tricks, cruising, or casual wear.
- CUSHIONED INSOLE FOR COMFORT – These mens skate shoes feature a cushioned footbed that absorbs shock and reduces foot fatigue, delivering lasting comfort whether you’re skating or walking.
- BREATHABLE MESH PANELS FOR AIRFLOW – These black skate shoes for men feature ventilated mesh uppers that enhance airflow, keeping your feet cool and supported during long skate sessions or daily activities.
- CLASSIC LOW-TOP STYLE FOR SKATERS & STREETWEAR – Combining skate performance with a streetwear aesthetic, these low top skater shoes for men are a versatile choice for skateboarders, skaters, and sneakerheads alike.
- Leather upper, layered for additional protection and durability
- Vaporcell midsole – molded, lightweight, abrasion resistant
- Max Lace provides extended lace life
- Vaporcell Elite footbed provides ultimate comfort and heel protection
- Featuring DC's trademarked Pill Pattern outsole
- The éS Quattro debuted in 1998, the same year as Google was founded. Both were revolutionary in the their respective worlds. The QUATTRO sold out so fast, we believe if it wasn’t for this shoe, the search engine – Google, wouldn’t be as popular as it is today. Ronnie Creager & Rick McCrank were both fans of the éS QUATTRO thanks to its supreme comfort, boardfeel, and its stunning appearance.
- Limited Quickstrike Release. The most demanded eS shoe of all time – the iconic Muska is back for a limited time. Few people have made such a huge impact in skateboarding as Chad Muska. Combing raw talent, personality, and power, the Muska will fill every session with creativity and energy. Features all the classic bells and whistles including hidden stash pocket, rubber toe cap, lace toggle and heel pull tab, centering straps, reflective logo on heel.
- 𝗗𝗨𝗥𝗔𝗕𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬 - The streets and mother nature can be tough, but etnies products are tougher. Designed to excel in a variety of built and natural environments, our products also look great while performing.
- 𝗦𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗕𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬 - Etnies is committed to the environment, having planted over 2.3 million trees with the support of our dedicated community. Together, we make a positive impact.
- 𝗦𝗞𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗕𝗢𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗘𝗥 𝗢𝗪𝗡𝗘𝗗 𝗦𝗜𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝟭𝟵𝟴𝟲 - Etnies is proud to be the first skateboarder-owned and operated global action sports footwear and apparel company. Our roots in skateboarding drive everything we do.
- 𝗗𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗡𝗘𝗗 𝗜𝗡 𝗖𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗡𝗜𝗔 - Our products are thoughtfully crafted in Lake Forest, California, ensuring the highest quality and innovation in every item.
- 𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡 - We aim to inspire youth through a passionate commitment to sports, community, and the environment. Join us in making a difference.
Choosing the Right Stride: Your Longboarding Shoe Buying Guide
Longboarding takes skill and the right gear. Your shoes are one of the most important pieces of equipment. Good shoes help you control your board better. They also keep your feet safe and comfortable. This guide helps you find the perfect pair for your longboarding adventures.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for longboarding shoes, focus on a few main things. These features directly affect how you ride.
Sole Grip and Thickness
The sole is the bottom of the shoe. It touches your board. You need excellent grip. Look for soles made of sticky rubber. This sticky rubber helps you hold the board during slides and sharp turns. The sole should not be too thick. Thicker soles feel less sensitive. You want to feel the board beneath your feet. A medium-thin sole offers the best balance of feel and protection.
Durability and Reinforcement
Longboarding wears down shoes quickly. You push off the ground often. Your back foot drags during stops. Look for shoes with reinforced areas. Extra stitching or tougher materials around the toe and heel are great. This extra strength means your shoes last longer.
Low-Profile Design
Most longboarders prefer low-top shoes. Low-tops give your ankles freedom to move. This flexibility is crucial for deep carves and quick foot adjustments. High-tops can restrict movement.
Comfort and Fit
You might wear these shoes for hours. They must fit well. The shoe should hug your foot without squeezing it too tight. Good padding around the ankle helps prevent rubbing. Test how your foot moves inside the shoe before buying.
Important Materials Matter
The materials used in longboarding shoes determine their lifespan and feel.
Uppers (The Top Part of the Shoe)
Suede is a favorite material for longboarding shoes. It is tough and grips the grip tape well. Canvas is lighter but wears out faster, especially if you slide a lot. Leather is very durable but can be stiff at first. Many modern shoes use synthetic materials. These often blend durability with light weight.
Outsoles (The Bottom Part)
As mentioned, rubber is king here. Look for vulcanized soles or cupsole construction. Vulcanized soles are flexible and offer great board feel. Cupsole construction is usually tougher and offers more impact protection.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality in a longboarding shoe comes from careful construction.
What Makes a Shoe Better?
Strong stitching is vital. Double or triple stitching in high-wear areas significantly improves quality. Flexible yet firm rubber soles mean better control. Shoes with good arch support reduce foot fatigue on long rides.
What Lowers Shoe Quality?
Thin, cheap foam inside the shoe breaks down fast. Glue that separates the sole from the upper quickly ruins the shoe. Poor quality rubber that feels hard or slippery reduces your grip immediately. Avoid shoes that feel flimsy when you twist them.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you ride affects what you need.
Cruising and Commuting
If you cruise casually, comfort is the top priority. A slightly thicker sole might feel nicer for long walks between rides. Style also plays a bigger role here.
Sliding and Downhill
If you plan to slide a lot, durability is everything. You need very tough suede or leather in the toe area. Shoes designed for sliding often have smooth patches where the grip tape rubs heavily. Board feel must be excellent for precise control at speed.
General Carving
For carving, focus on flexibility and good grip. You move your feet often when carving deep turns. A shoe that lets your foot pivot easily is best.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Longboarding Shoes
Q: Do I need special longboarding shoes?
A: While you can ride in regular sneakers, longboarding shoes are better. They offer superior grip and last longer against the grip tape.
Q: Are skate shoes the same as longboarding shoes?
A: Yes, they are very similar. Skate shoes are built tough for tricks, which works perfectly for the wear and tear of longboarding.
Q: Should my longboarding shoes be waterproof?
A: Waterproofing is not usually necessary. Good breathability is more important to keep your feet cool and dry while riding.
Q: How often should I replace my longboarding shoes?
A: This depends on how much you ride. If you slide often, you might need new shoes every few months. For light cruising, they might last a year.
Q: Do high-top shoes offer any benefit for longboarding?
A: High-tops offer more ankle support, which some riders like for stability. However, most experienced longboarders prefer low-tops for better ankle flexibility.
Q: What is “board feel”?
A: Board feel is how much you can sense the texture and shape of your board through your feet. Thinner soles give you better board feel.
Q: Is suede better than canvas for longboarding?
A: Suede is generally better. It is tougher and handles abrasion from the grip tape much better than canvas.
Q: What is vulcanized construction?
A: Vulcanized construction means the sole is baked onto the shoe. This makes the sole very flexible and gives you great board feel right away.
Q: How important is the shoe color?
A: The color does not affect performance. Choose any color you like, but know that dark colors might hide dirt and scuffs better.
Q: Should I buy shoes that are slightly too big?
A: No. Shoes that are too big will slip around, causing blisters and poor control. Buy the size that fits snugly but comfortably.