Skateboarding can be a pricey hobby, and skate shoes are a significant recurring expense. Many skaters push their shoes to the absolute limit, enduring grip tape shredding through socks or outsoles falling apart. But how do you really know when it’s time to replace your skate shoes? Recognizing the signs early can save you from discomfort and potential injuries.
Generally, you should replace your skate shoes every 2 to 6 months, depending on your skating frequency. If you’re hitting the streets or park more than three times a week, aim for a change every two months. For those skating once or twice a week, four to six months is a reasonable timeframe. However, it’s not just about time; wear and tear also play a crucial role. Even if your shoes look okay, they might have lost the supportive qualities needed to protect your feet, potentially leading to injuries.
Worn skate shoes with holes near the ollie area
The lifespan of your skate shoes varies widely based on your skating style, grip tape roughness, and how often you skate. Even if you primarily skate transition and don’t do many flip tricks, it’s wise to replace them every 5 to 6 months. Sometimes, the wear isn’t obvious, but the shoes lose their structural integrity, compromising foot support.
12 Signs You Need To Replace Your Skate Shoes
While experienced skaters often have a feel for when their shoes are past their prime, many tend to delay the inevitable as long as possible. Sometimes, even a new pair of the same model doesn’t feel quite right, and some shoes perform best when they’re almost worn out. Here are 12 signs to help you determine when it’s time to replace your skate shoes:
1. The Sole is Flapping
A flapping sole is more than just annoying—it’s a safety hazard, particularly on your push foot. This instability can lead to slips and injuries. While gluing may offer a temporary fix, it’s often short-lived. If your sole is flapping, it’s a clear signal to retire your shoes.
2. Ripped Stitches
Ripped stitches are often the first sign that your shoes are nearing the end of their life. Ignoring them can lead to rapid deterioration. While some skate shoes are more durable than others, loose stitching should be addressed immediately with Shoe Goo or similar repair products. Notably, shoes without stitching near the toe area tend to be more durable in that region.
3. Excessive Wiggle Room
If your feet are sliding around inside your shoes, it’s a sign that the shoe has stretched out. Tightening your laces might offer temporary relief, but it can also restrict circulation or increase the risk of ankle rolls. While thicker socks could provide a short-term fix, ultimately, you need a new pair of shoes.
4. Relying on Duct Tape
Duct tape is a great quick fix to get you through a skate session, but it’s not a long-term solution. It reduces friction, which can hinder your kickflips, and it doesn’t adhere well. Consider a more substantial repair with Rip Care, Shoe Goo, and suede patches for better results.
5. Cardboard Patches
Using cardboard as a patch is a budget-friendly solution, but it’s a sign your shoes are beyond repair. While it might prevent abrasions on your front foot, it’s not durable and will quickly wear through. It’s time to get real – your shoes need to be replaced.
6. Loss of Sole Grip
Worn New Balance skate shoe sole
Even without visible ollie holes, a slippery sole compromises your ability to push, carve, and control your board. When the sole loses its grip, there’s no way to restore it. Try to avoid braking with your push foot and focus on learning power slides to prolong the life of your soles.
7. Foot Abrasions
Experiencing abrasions or raw spots on your feet while skating indicates that your shoes have worn through in key areas. This can be quite painful and it’s a clear sign that your shoes are no longer providing sufficient protection.
8. Holes in Your Socks
Similar to abrasions on your feet, holes in your socks are an early warning sign that your shoes need attention. Addressing the holes in your shoes with repair products will prevent the need for band-aids on your feet.
9. More Goo Than Shoe
If your skate shoes are more Shoe Goo and patches than actual shoe, it’s time to let them go. While patching can extend their life a bit, there’s a point where it’s no longer worth the effort, and you should consider replacing them.
10. Increased Impact Discomfort
Even if you don’t do flip tricks and only skate bowls or ramps, the protective qualities of your skate shoes eventually degrade. When impacts start hurting more, it’s a sign the cushioning and support have diminished. Replace your shoes every 5 to 6 months to prevent heel bruises and foot injuries.
11. Holes in the Shoe Sole
Skate shoe sole with a hole
Holes in the shoe sole develop from braking, pushing, and general foot movements on the grip tape. While not as visible as ollie holes, they impact board feel and protection. Replacing insoles won’t solve this issue—it’s a clear indication to replace your shoes.
12. Shoe Odor
If your shoes have a persistent wet dog smell, it might be time for a new pair. While airing out your shoes might help, sometimes the odor is too ingrained, and it’s better to start fresh.
When To Buy New Skate Shoes
DVS Commanche 2.0 showing wear and tear
Even without visible wear, skate shoes lose their support over time. Replace them every six months to ensure adequate arch support and foot protection. You can also extend the life of your skate shoes by replacing the insoles. Dr. Scholl’s insoles are a budget-friendly option for added support and can be especially useful if you primarily skate bowls, vert, or mini ramps.
Getting The Most Out Of Your Skate Shoes
There are several ways to make your skate shoes last longer. The type of grip tape you use, your skateboarding style, and whether you brake with your foot, all play a significant role.
Grip tape is abrasive, and each ollie or flip wears down the suede. The quality of the suede also impacts longevity. Gentler grip tape, like Jessup, is less harsh than Mob grip tape. Sanding down your grip tape before skating can also help. You can use leftover grip tape after applying it to your board to smooth out the high-friction areas. Sanding the flick and ollie areas can also prolong the life of your skate shoes.
Sacrificing Board Feel For Durability
When choosing skate shoes, consider the trade-off between board feel and durability. Cupsole shoes offer greater durability and support but may reduce board feel. Technical skaters often prefer vulcanized shoes, which provide better board feel due to their thinner and more flexible outsoles. It’s essential to choose shoes that match your style.
Adidas Tyshawn skate shoe showing signs of wear
How Long Does It Take To Break in Skate Shoes?
New skate shoes can feel foreign, affecting your board feel and trick execution. Breaking in your new shoes can take anywhere from 2 hours to a day, depending on the brand and shoe type. Cupsole shoes take longer to break in than vulcanized ones. Be patient, your board feel will return.
Some Last Tips
- Don’t throw away old shoes right away. Cut off the suede to use as patches for your new shoes.
- Apply Shoe Goo to new shoes, particularly around the stitching, to extend their life.
- Avoid canvas shoes, as they are prone to ripping.
- Research durable skate shoes.
- Understand that the “best” skate shoe is subjective; pick shoes that fit your style.
- Address wear early to add up to 40 extra hours of skate time.
- Shop smart; look for deals on your favorite skate shoes and buy them, even before you need them.
By recognizing these signs and tips, you can ensure your skate shoes last as long as possible, providing the support and board feel you need while staying safe.
