Shoe companies create various types of the skateboarding shoes to accommodate different styles of riding. Skaters should wear a pair of skateboard shoes that offers comfort and support. Thinner skateboarding shoes remain ideal for technical maneuvers on ledges and manual pads, but you should opt for a pair of cushioned shoes if you prefer to jump down handrails and other street skateboarding obstacles.
Slip-on
The slip-on remains one of the most simplistic types of skateboarding shoes. While many shoe models feature laces, the slip-on has an elastic band. The slip-on design offers little ankle support but provides increased board feel. Avoid wearing a pair of slip-ons during high impact street skateboarding tricks as it may result in painful heal bruises. The slip-on style remains ideal for skating your local mini-ramp or cruising down steep hills.
Low-top
Street and ramp skaters alike utilize the low-top model of skateboarding shoe. While the low-top features a pair of laces, it also provides a thin construction for better board feel. According to the 2011 Transworld Skateboarding Buyer's Guide, low-top skateboarding shoes often feature a reinforced toe section that consists of a plastic or rubber material. The low-top design rests just below the ankle bones. Wear a pair of long socks to prevent ankle bruising while wearing the low-top model.
Mid-top
The mid-top is an ideal skateboarding shoe for street skateboarders who jump down stairs and gaps. The mid-top often features a cushioned sole that prevents heel bruising. Many mid-top models offer a Velcro strap that fastens the shoe laces in place. Mid-tops sit higher on your feet and cover the large bones on the opposing sides of the ankle. These shoes commonly have a cloth or leather design. While leather mid-tops will last longer, they often come with a higher price tag.
High-top
Choose the high-top model if you have weak ankles due to previous injuries. While high-tops offer increased support, they often have the heaviest construction. According to Detroit City Skateboards, high-top skateboarding shoes often feature a cup sole. As opposed to the traditional vulcanized sole, the cup sole consists of a pre-molded design that has been glued to the bottom of the skateboarding shoe. The grip pattern of the high-top varies depending on the manufacturer. High-tops are ideal for skating on large half pipe ramps.
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