You can only have fun and make progress with your longboarding if you are comfortable. Comfort includes everything from the grip tape you use to the shoes you wear. So, do you need skate shoes to longboard?
It’s ideal to wear skate shoes when longboarding because they grip the board and protect your heels better. Skate shoes can also protect your grip tape so it stays gritty and durable. It’s best to avoid wearing running shoes when longboarding because the raised arch and poor ankle support can lead to foot and ankle injuries.
The Vans Half Cabs are arguably the best skate shoes for longboarding. However, the Etnies Kingpins and eS Accel OGs offer similar support and comfort. Follow along as we explore whether or not you need skate shoes to longboard and highlight your best options.
Do I Need Skate Shoes For Longboarding?
You don’t need skate shoes for longboarding, but you ideally should. Basketball and tennis shoes don’t give you proper footing on a longboard. Longboards have grip tape on top that can be rough on athletic shoes.
Skate shoes have flat bottoms that are designed to help you grip the board. Grip tape isn’t nearly as harsh on skate shoes as they are on athletic shoes. While it is ideal to go longboarding in skate shoes, it isn’t mandatory to wear them. However, the grip tape on a longboard can damage the soles and sides of athletic shoes.
Read our related post on how to clean and/or replace grip tape on a longboard here.
Are Running Shoes Good For Longboarding?
Running shoes are the worst kind of athletic shoes for longboarding. They have raised soles which increase the risk of injury while riding. You are at a bigger risk of hurting your ankle if you skate with running shoes. Running shoes are also more slippery and cannot effectively hug the grip tape.
Are Vans Good For Longboarding?
Vans are some of the best skate shoes for longboarding. Not only are they a classic skate shoe brand, but they make some of the most comfortable shoes on the market. They are known for their durability and flexibility which are both essential when longboarding.
Vans skate shoes, such as the Half Cabs, are also great for tricks and downhill riding. They are durable but aren’t so thick that you can’t feel the board beneath your feet. Make sure to look for specific skate shoes from Vans because they also produce traditional athletic shoes.
5 Best Shoes For Longboarding
There are several amazing longboarding shoes on the market. They are interchangeable with skate shoes, and many of them boast unique styles. Let’s take a look at the best shoes for longboarding.
1. Vans Half Cab
Vans Half Cabs are among the most iconic skate shoes, and they still make them to this day. They are the perfect happy medium between low and high tops. The Duracap underlay makes them comfortable whether you simply cruise and land tricks or ride downhill.
2. Etnies Kingpin
Look no further than the Etnies Kingpins if you want thick, durable skate shoes for longboarding. They are similar to the popular Etnies Faders, but the Kingpins have a bigger tongue. The rubber outsole is durable and can withstand heavy longboarding seshes. It doesn’t hurt that Kingpins have comfortable foam insoles.
3. eS Accel OG
The eS Accel OG is one of the most stylish skate shoes that the brand has to offer. Comfort is the biggest selling point as the eS Accel OGs have cushy insoles called Cupsoles. The tread pattern on the bottom of the shoe offers as much support as the grip tape on your longboard.
4. Adidas Tyshawn Low Shoes
Tyshawn Jones is one of the best professionals right now, and his signature Adidas SB Tyshawn Low Shoes are some of the best on the market. These shoes feature an athletic shape without sacrificing the durability and comfort of a skate shoe. Shock absorption, strong soles, and a cozy sock liner mean these shoes will protect your feet when longboarding.
5. Lakai Cambridge
Founded by the famous professional Mike Carroll, Lakai is a top skate shoe brand and their Cambridge model is easily their best. The mixture of suede and synthetic leather is durable and stylish. Lakai went above and beyond with the Delux-Lite insole that protects your feet. They come in two colors and are just as athletic as they are ideal for longboarding.
Read our related post “10 Best Longboarding Shoes this Year” here.
Final Thoughts
Ideally, you should wear skate shoes when you go longboarding. Tennis, basketball, and running shoes don’t offer enough support or grip. Vans is considered one of the best longboarding and skating shoe brands, and their Half Cabs are the most popular. Check out other brands that make great longboarding shoes like Lakai, eS, Adidas SB, and Etnies.
You can also check out our post of the 10 Best Longboard Brands to see more shoe options and to help you choose the best longboard clothing.
Nick Durante is a professional writer that primarily focused on action sports. Skateboarding and Longboarding are his particular areas of expertise. When he isn’t writing about action sports, he is catching up on the world of skateboarding and spending time outside.