Skateboarding shoe manufacturers continue to thrive due to the growing popularity of skateboarding in contemporary culture. Skateboarding shoes have the ability to endure the abrasive contact that occurs when skaters perform tricks. Producers create skateboarding shoes to support the skater's ankles as well as cushion the heel to protect from painful bruising.
Types
One of the most common types of skateboarding shoes, referred to as the high top, fits 2 inches above the ankle bones, which helps to protect skaters from the hard wooden edge of the skateboard. The high top also increases ankle support, which helps skaters who execute tricks on ramps reaching heights of 15 feet or more. Another popular shoe type, called the mid-top, fits right above the opposing ankle bones and allows for more movement than the high top. The low-top skate shoe fits below the ankle bones and helps skaters feel the board while performing technical manual and ledge tricks.
Function
The main function of the skateboarding shoe is to protect the skater's feet from the coarse tape located on the top of the wooden skateboard. The durable external layer around the shoe guards the heels and ankles during maneuvers that include flipping the skateboard. The cushioned insole, housed in the bottom of the skateboarding shoe, counteracts the damaging impact of tricks that involve jumping down tall ledges and stair sets.
Features
The shock-absorbent insole of the skateboarding shoe remains one of the most valuable features. The Sole Technology Institute continues to help prominent skateboarding shoe companies design the most effective protective insoles. The Sole Tech insoles feature a thick gel material that bends as the skater puts pressure on the bottom of the shoe. Skateboarding shoe manufacturers use long-lasting materials to construct the outside of the shoe, including durable fabrics and reinforced leathers.
Effects
Avid skateboarders must replace the laces of skateboarding shoes on a week-to-week basis. The shoelaces rip after rubbing back and forth across the grip tape of the skateboard. Holes form around the toe area of the shoes as skaters use their toes to perform various tricks.
Prevention/Solution
Wearing the skateboarding shoe incorrectly remains one of the most common reasons for injury to the heel or ankle. Tying the shoelaces very tightly can restrict the ankle's movement as the skater lands a trick. Tying the laces too loosely can send the shoe flying from the foot as the skater jumps through the air. Both of these common errors can cause painful injury.
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