While being comfortable enough to feel like skateboarding over to the corner store in sandals is great, the reality is that a random rock can cause major injury to an unprotected skateboarder. Just like wearing a helmet and pads are essential to safe riding, wearing appropriate footwear can help protect the fragile and all-too-important pieces of the human foot.
There is such a thing as a “skateboarding shoe,” and it exists because ordinary sneakers cannot provide the same protection and maneuverability. Like purchasing other kinds of sports gear, it is important to use shoes that are comfortable – preventing sore feet and blisters. Other points to examine when purchasing shoes include the level of protection, quality of the laces, and the grip of the sole.
Protection in skateboarding shoes is durability and flexibility – these shoes must be able to handle, and survive in good condition, the severity of skateboarding. Ollie protection allows skateboarders to perform backbreaking tricks, and the greater the coverage, the better the protection.
Shoelaces may seem an odd item to be concerned about, but in sports or rigorous activity, bad shoelaces will break and fall apart if they are not up-to-par. The material of the lace will determine it’s durability under the constant pressure a skateboarder will put it through. Other than just checking the material of the shoelaces, skateboarders should prefer shoes that lace inside, preventing accidents caused by loose laces, tripping, or catching.
Grip on the surface of the skateboard can be the difference between landing a trick and extreme injury. Soles made of gum are most often the recommended skateboarding shoe, but any materials that have a high gripping power can prevent slippage.
Having talent, skill, and practice can make a person a good skateboarder, but having the wrong shoes can keep a skateboarder from reaching a better level of riding.
Written by Skate Punk -
Skate Shop
