Due to the increasing popularity of skateboarding since the early 1990s, companies have formed that produce only skateboarding shoes. Skateboarding shoes are manufactured to withstand the excessive wear and tear that comes with the sport of skateboarding. Manufacturers design skateboarding shoes to protect the skaters' heels and ankles as they perform high-impact tricks down stair sets and tall gaps.
Function
Skaters use skateboarding shoes to protect their feet from the rough grip tape that is applied to the top of the skateboarding deck. The tough outer layer of the skateboarding shoe ensures the skater's feet remain unscathed during tricks that involve flipping the board with the heel and toe. The soft insole of the skateboarding shoe absorbs the shock of high-impact tricks and protects against heel breaks and painful bruises. The skater can use the laces to tighten the shoe, which helps support the ankles and protect against ankle rolls and fractures.
Types
Three of the most common types of skateboarding shoes are the high top, the mid top and the low top. Ramp skaters often use the high top to maximize ankle support as they ride up and down the steeply inclined walls of skateboard ramps. High-top skate shoes sit approximately 2 inches over the ankle bones. The mid-top skate shoe, used by street and ramp skaters alike, just covers the ankle bones. The low top offers more board feel for ledge and manual skaters. The low top sits below the ankle bones.
Features
One of the most important features of the skateboarding shoe is the heavy-duty insole. Top skateboarding companies have hired the Sole Technology Institute to scientifically research the best available technology in skateboarding shoe insoles. Skateboarding shoes feature highly shock-absorbent cushioned insoles. Shoes made for skateboarding feature a tough outer construction composed of reinforced fabrics and leathers.
Effects
Professional skateboarders have to replace their skateboarding shoes on a month-to-month basis. The majority of skateboard shoe damage results from excessive contact with the sandpaper-like tape located on the top of the board. The outer toe is the area where most skate shoe damage is concentrated. The majority of skateboarding tricks involve the skater's using the outside edge of the toe to pop the board into the air. Shoelaces often rip, and holes form in this area.
Prevention/Solution
Having the shoelaces of the skateboard shoe too tight or too loose can drastically increase the chance of ankle injury. Shoes worn too loose can shift to incorrect positions as skaters land, which causes the ankle to roll. Shoes worn too tight do not give the foot adequate space to move and can cause similar injuries.
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