Skateboarding shoes are a crucial component for any skater, offering the necessary grip, durability, and style for performing tricks and navigating the urban landscape. Over the years, numerous brands have emerged as leaders in creating high-quality skate shoes that cater to both amateur and professional skaters alike. From classic brands that have stood the test of time to newer innovators pushing the boundaries of design and technology, the choices are vast and varied. To help you find the perfect pair, explore our curated list of the best skateboarding shoe brands below.
Illustration of skateboarding shoes
Best brands of skateboarding shoes in 2025
Vans
Vans is a seminal brand in the skateboarding shoe market, renowned for its deep-rooted heritage and innovative designs. Since its inception in 1966, Vans has been a favorite among skateboarders, with iconic models like the Authentic, Era, and Old Skool. The brand's "Off the Wall" logo and distinctive Vans Sidestripe have become hallmarks of skate culture. By 2006, Vans had achieved $1 billion in annual global sales, marking a significant milestone as the largest single action sports brand in the world. Vans continues to drive the market with technologies like the WAFFLECUP(tm), combining support and durability with superior boardfeel. For more information, visit the Vans company page.
Nike SB
Nike SB, introduced in 2002, has emerged as a dominant force in the skateboarding shoe market, successfully integrating into the skateboarding culture despite initial resistance. The brand's strategy of collaborating with professional skateboarders and selling exclusively through specialty skate shops has been crucial to its success. By 2009, Nike SB had become one of the top-selling brands in many skateshops, with owners often citing it as their best-selling footwear brand. Nike SB's market presence is further reinforced by its strong market share, with the brand being a key player in the global skateboard shoes market, which is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.00% from 2024 to 2031. Despite recent declines in resale value, Nike SB remains a highly regarded brand within the skateboarding community. For more details on their offerings, visit their official website.
Adidas Skateboarding
Adidas Skateboarding is a leading producer of high-quality skateboarding shoes, known for its performance-driven designs and durable construction. In 2022, Adidas held a 15.4% market share in the global athletic footwear market and a 14.7% share in the sneaker segment, highlighting its significant presence in the industry. The brand collaborates with professional skaters like Dennis Busenitz, Tyshawn Jones, and Nora Vasconcellos to create unique and flawless performance shoes. Adidas skate shoes, such as the Busenitz Pro, are praised for their durability and precise control, making them a favorite among technical street skaters. With a wide range of styles, from vulc to cupsole designs, Adidas caters to various skating styles and preferences.
DC Shoes
DC Shoes is a leading brand in the skateboard shoes market, known for pushing the boundaries of technical skate shoes and emphasizing the importance of both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The brand was instrumental in changing the perception of skate shoes, making them more than just a necessity but also a fashion statement. DC Shoes has been a key player since its inception, influencing skate culture by incorporating elements from sneaker culture, such as progressive materials and layers, as seen in their involvement in the DC Super Tour. The global skateboard shoes market, in which DC Shoes is a significant player, is expected to grow substantially, with North America holding over 40% of the global revenue in 2024. This growth is driven by increasing participation in skateboarding and the expansion of skateboarding facilities worldwide. For more information, visit the official DC Shoes website.
Emerica
Emerica, a renowned brand under the parent organization Sole Technology, is highly regarded for producing high-quality skateboarding shoes. Known for their durable and comfortable designs, Emerica shoes are favored by skaters worldwide. The brand is part of a vibrant market expected to grow significantly, with the global skateboard shoes market projected to reach USD 3.3 billion by 2032. Emerica's commitment to skate-specific features, such as deconstructed collars and external stash pockets, sets them apart in the industry. Their shoes are designed in collaboration with prominent skaters, ensuring they meet the needs of both professional and casual skaters.
etnies
Etnies, founded in 1986 by Pierre-Andre Senizergues, is a renowned brand in the skateboarding shoe market, known for its innovative and durable products. The brand has a rich history, including the creation of the first pro model skateboarding shoe, the etnies Natas, in 1987. Etnies has supported various action sports communities, including skateboarding, snowboarding, BMX, and MTB, and is committed to sustainable living through initiatives like the "Buy a Shoe, Plant a Tree" program, which has led to the planting of over 2 million trees. The brand continues to innovate with materials like Michelin rubber to enhance shoe longevity and performance. Etnies remains a key player in the global skateboard shoes market, which is expected to grow significantly by 2032.
Converse CONS
Converse CONS is a leading brand in the skateboarding shoe market, known for its iconic and performance-driven designs. Since its launch in 2009, CONVERSE CONS has become a staple in skateboard culture, featuring models like the CTAS Pro, One Star Pro, and Louie Lopez Pro, which are crafted with extra durable materials and superior comfort. These shoes are available in various styles, including slip, low, and high top models, catering to both on-board performance and off-board skate-inspired lifestyles. Converse CONS has a strong presence in the global skateboard shoes market, which was valued at USD 871.2 million in 2024, with North America holding around 40% of the global revenue. For more details on their models, visit their skateboarding shoes collection.
New Balance Numeric
New Balance Numeric has established itself as a leading producer of skateboarding shoes, entering the market in 2013 and quickly gaining respect for its high-quality, durable, and performance-driven footwear. With over 100 years of expertise in footwear design, New Balance Numeric has innovated continuously, supporting top riders and refining their designs to maximize skate performance. The brand has increased its share of the skate footwear market significantly since 2021, particularly in the US and Europe, driven by successful collaborations and athlete sponsorships. New Balance Numeric's commitment to technical excellence and core skate credentials has made it a credible alternative to other major brands, with products like the Numeric 480 skate shoes receiving high praise for their impact absorption and durability. The brand's growth aligns with New Balance's overall revenue increase, reaching $6.5 billion in sales in 2023, with a notable 23% boost in sales that year.
Lakai
Lakai Limited is a prominent player in the skateboard footwear market, known for its high-quality and functional skate shoes. The brand is part of a market that is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% from 2023 to 2033, reaching a projected market value of US$ 4,546.8 million by 2033. In 2023, the skate shoes segment, which includes brands like Lakai, is anticipated to account for a significant market share of 62.1%. The increasing participation in skateboarding events and the expansion of skateboarding parks and facilities are key factors driving the growth of brands like Lakai. Online retailers are also expected to play a crucial role, with their share of the market projected to reach 16.5% by 2033. For more detailed insights, visit the Future Market Insights report.
Globe
Globe, founded in Australia in 1994 by brothers Peter, Stephen, and Matt Hill, is a leading brand in the skateboarding industry, known for its high-quality skateboard footwear and apparel. The company, which started as Hardcore Enterprises, has grown to become one of the world's largest skateboard distribution companies, exporting products to over 100 countries. Globe's success is attributed to its involvement in promoting skateboarding through demonstrations and tours featuring renowned skaters like Tony Hawk and Mark Gonzales. The brand continues to innovate and expand, owning several other brands such as FXD, Enjoi, and Blind, and maintaining licensing and distribution rights for numerous other skateboarding brands. Globe's commitment to skate culture has made it a significant player in the market, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 3.9% to 4.3% in the coming years.
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