Remember that feeling when your ankle twisted just a little too much during a kickflip? Or maybe you’re tired of shoes that look cool but fall apart after a week of shredding. Choosing the right high top skate shoes is more than just picking a color; it’s about finding the perfect balance between ankle support, board feel, and serious durability. It can feel overwhelming trying to sort through the hype to find what truly works when you’re pushing hard at the park or cruising the streets.
Many skaters face the tough choice: do you sacrifice protection for a lighter feel, or do you opt for bulky support that dulls your connection to the board? We get it. That’s why we’ve broken down everything you need to know about the best high tops on the market today. By the end of this post, you will understand exactly which features matter most for your skating style, ensuring you step onto your board with confidence.
Ready to lock in your next pair of reliable kicks? Let’s dive into the details and find the high tops that will keep you rolling smoothly and safely.
Top High Top Skate Shoes Recommendations
- Outsole designed with custom DC Pill Pattern
- Stag Low Top Skate Shoe
- Lace Up Closure
- Heel type: Flat
- 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
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- STYLE DESIGN:Obtaom Black Monochrome High Top Canvas Sneaker for women underline positive feelings,Style design, reflect women's desire for fashion, youth and beauty.
- FABRIC UPPER: Canvas upper has moderate yarn thickness, You can see the textile pattern on the upper,Womens Play Mid Fashion Sneaker is breathables,keep feet your feet dry.
- NON-SLIP:Rubber sole without fabric coating , Black Ankle Canvas boots for women All will be Quiet and Soft when walking on hard surfaces or wet floor.
- STURDY: Casual Black/Black High-top Canvas Shoes is sturdy as the name brand,the women’s Mid-calf fashion sneakers have been vulcanized by high pressure and temperature (higher than many peers),have a better shape and keep for a longer time.
- Foam insode:Obtaom Women High-Top Canvas sneaker padding cool fit, Super comfort.
- READY FOR ANYTHING: Blending laid-back style with functional details and enhanced durability, the Men's Ashwood Hi Decon high-top shoe is one you'll always want in your lineup.
- STREAMLINED LOOK: Showcasing the Vans Sidestripe on lightweight, deconstructed suede and canvas uppers, these fashion sneakers deliver timeless style that works with any outfit, any season.
- COMFORT & PROTECTION: Featuring padded ankle support to keep you protected, these shoes have cushioned tongues and collars to provide a snug, rub-free fit – plus Vans' signature rubber waffle outsole for superior grip and flexibility.
- BUILT TO LAST: With durable vulcanized construction and a reinforced canvas toe cap, these casual high tops are made to resist daily wear and tear – whether you're walking to the office, exploring on the weekend, or anywhere in between.
- HERITAGE MEETS MODERN STYLE: Vans has been setting trends since 1966, bringing creativity and individuality to every step. The Ashwood Hi Decon continues that legacy, delivering a clean, laid-back look that never goes out of style.
The Ultimate Buying Guide to High Top Skate Shoes
High top skate shoes offer great ankle support. They also look classic. This guide helps you choose the best pair for skating or just for style.
Key Features to Look For
When buying high tops, look closely at these important parts. These features make a big difference in how the shoe performs.
- Ankle Padding: Good padding keeps your ankle safe. It stops scrapes when you land tricks. More padding means more comfort, but sometimes less board feel.
- Outsole Grip (Tread Pattern): The bottom of the shoe needs excellent grip. Look for a deep or complex tread pattern. This pattern grabs your skateboard deck tightly.
- Tongue Structure: A thick, well-padded tongue protects the top of your foot. It stops laces from digging in. Some tongues also have elastic loops to keep them from sliding sideways.
- Durability Zones: High-wear areas, like the sides where you do ollies (ollie pads), need extra material. Reinforced stitching here helps the shoes last longer.
Important Materials Matter
The material of the shoe affects how long it lasts and how it feels. Different materials suit different skaters.
- Suede (Best for Skating): Suede leather is tough. It handles the friction from grip tape very well. It breaks in nicely, molding to your foot over time.
- Canvas: Canvas is light and breathes well. It is cheaper. However, canvas wears out fast if you skate hard. It’s better for casual wear.
- Leather (Treated): Some skate shoes use treated leather. It resists water better than suede. It cleans up easily.
- Vulcanized Sole: This construction process heats the sole to the upper part of the shoe. It creates a very flexible sole. This gives you great board feel, letting you feel the board better under your feet.
- Cupsole: This sole is stitched and glued onto the upper. It offers more cushioning and impact protection than a vulcanized sole. It takes longer to break in.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality in a skate shoe comes down to construction. Poor construction means the shoe falls apart quickly.
Quality Boosters:
- Strong double or triple stitching in high-stress areas.
- High-density rubber used in the outsole.
- A sturdy heel counter that keeps your heel locked in place.
Quality Reducers:
- Thin, weak glue holding the sole on.
- Flimsy cardboard inside the sole structure.
- Cheap synthetic materials that rip easily.
User Experience and Use Cases
High tops are versatile. Think about what you will use them for most.
For serious street skaters, maximum durability is key. You need suede uppers and a strong cupsole for landing big gaps. The ankle support helps prevent sprains during difficult maneuvers.
For casual wear or cruising, comfort and style take priority. A lighter canvas high top works well. These shoes feel less bulky for walking around all day.
Remember, the shoe needs a break-in period. Stiff, new shoes feel awkward at first. Skate them a few times before you try your hardest tricks.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About High Top Skate Shoes
Q: Are high tops better than low tops for skating?
A: High tops give better ankle support. This helps prevent twists. Low tops give more ankle flexibility and generally feel lighter.
Q: Do high tops make my feet hot?
A: Yes, sometimes they do. Shoes made with thick padding and dark suede can trap heat. Look for models with ventilation holes if heat is a big concern.
Q: How long should a good pair of skate shoes last?
A: If you skate every day, expect heavy-use shoes to last between one and three months. Casual use can make them last much longer.
Q: Should I buy my usual shoe size?
A: Mostly, yes. However, some brands run small or large. Read specific reviews for sizing advice before purchasing online.
Q: What is “board feel”?
A: Board feel is how much you can sense the skateboard under your feet. Vulcanized soles usually give the best board feel.
Q: Can I wear high tops for basketball?
A: Modern high top skate shoes are not designed for the impact of basketball. They lack the specific cushioning needed for jumping and quick cuts.
Q: How should I clean suede high tops?
A: Use a dry suede brush to remove dirt. Avoid soaking them in water. You can use a special suede cleaner for tough stains.
Q: What is the difference between a cupsole and a vulcanized sole?
A: A cupsole is thicker and offers more padding. A vulcanized sole is thinner and gives better grip feedback to your feet.
Q: Do high tops help stop heel bruises?
A: Yes. The extra material and often thicker sole underneath the heel help absorb some impact when landing flat.
Q: Are high tops heavier than low tops?
A: Typically, yes. The extra material around the ankle adds a little weight, but modern designs keep the weight down.