Adidas, a German multinational corporation founded in 1924, didn’t enter the skateboarding market until 80 years later. Despite a rocky start, the brand quickly gained traction with the introduction of signature models by skateboarding legends like Mark Gonzales and Denis Busenitz. Today, Adidas offers a wide range of skate shoes, but are they actually good for skateboarding? This comprehensive review will explore their offerings, focusing on performance, durability, and value.
Adidas skate shoes can be a great choice for skateboarders, particularly if you opt for their traditional and pro models. While some might find them a bit stiff initially, the protection and endurance they offer often justify the price. Praised for features like thick soles and the comfortable Adiprene insoles, Adidas shoes have become a staple in the skateboarding community. Let’s take a deeper look at what makes them tick.
Adidas Skate Shoe Review
Since 2006, Adidas has released over 20 different skateboarding shoe models, with many receiving re-releases and updates. Here’s a look at three of the most skate-friendly models from the brand:
Adidas Busenitz Vulc II: The Best Overall
The Adidas Busenitz pro model, designed in collaboration with skateboarding icon Dennis Busenitz, significantly boosted Adidas’ credibility within the skate world. This shoe is known for its smooth performance, mirroring the skating style of Busenitz himself. The Busenitz Vulc II features a grippy, durable cup sole that provides both flexibility and stability. Its reinforced suede design offers a secure and comfortable fit, making it a popular choice for many skaters.
Adidas Lucas Puig Pro-Model: Top Performance
Lucas Puig, a French skater known for his unique style, has a pro shoe that lives up to his reputation. This shoe is designed for high performance, featuring a distinctive sole that extends up the heel for maximum protection. The ghillie lacing system helps to prevent laces from tearing easily, a common issue for skaters. The combination of style and performance makes the Lucas Puig pro-model a solid choice for serious skaters.
Adidas Campus Vulc: The Most Affordable Option
The Campus Vulc is a classic shoe that is both durable and affordable. It features a low-cut design, full suede construction, and the iconic Adidas three stripes. The reinforced rubber heel cup and double stitching in the ollie area contribute to its impressive durability. The Campus Vulc is often recommended as an entry-level skateboarding shoe, offering excellent resistance similar to pro models but at a more accessible price point. It’s advisable to wear them for a week to break them in before skating.
Different Types of Adidas Skateboarding Shoes
While not all Adidas shoes are suitable for skateboarding, the brand has adapted several of its classic sneakers into skate-friendly models. Many shoes that weren’t originally designed for skating have been updated to accommodate the sport’s demands.
Adidas Superstar ADV
Adidas Superstar ADVThe Adidas Superstar, a popular model not originally intended for skateboarding, has been adapted into the Superstar ADV. Skateboarders have found that the shoe performs well despite its leather construction. The Adidas x Thrasher Superstar collaboration, in particular, is a highly recommended version, featuring a suede curve and Adiprene insole. The black colorway with red accents adds an aesthetic appeal, making it both functional and stylish.
Adidas Stan Smith ADV
Originally a tennis shoe, the Adidas Stan Smith has been redesigned as the Stan Smith ADV for skateboarding. This model comes in both suede and leather versions, though the suede version is generally preferred for skating. The Stan Smith ADV retains the classic comfort and style of the original while adding the reinforcements needed for skateboarding.
Adidas 3MC
Adidas Tyshawn skate shoesThe Adidas 3MC has a similar aesthetic to the New Era, but it is notably more durable. The 3MC features double layers of suede on the contour, metal eyelets, and a vulcanized Hex-Flex sole designed to minimize vibration. Though now available in both suede and fabric versions, the suede versions are better suited for skateboarding. The 3MC provides style and some durability, but may not be the longest-lasting option.
Adidas 3ST
The Adidas 3ST series features two models: the 3ST.003 and the 3ST.004. The 3ST.003 has a somewhat unusual design with reinforced padding on the flick area and a mesh heel, which may not be ideal for skateboarding. The 3ST.004, on the other hand, features a double insole and full suede construction for increased durability and protection. The S-shape on the heel helps to keep the foot secure during skating.
Adidas Matchbreak
The Adidas Matchbreak resembles a thinner version of the Busenitz. This model is also available in a mid-top version with reinforced padding. The Matchbreak can come with either suede or leather, with the all-suede version being the better choice for skateboarding due to its increased durability.
Adidas Suciu ADV
The Adidas Suciu ADV, designed in collaboration with Mark Suciu, is a sleek and thin model. It features a thick rubber sole and higher heel to protect the Achilles tendon. A key feature is the blue Adiprene insole, which is considered one of the best on the market.
How Good Are Adidas Shoe Soles?
Adidas invests heavily in research and development for their sole technology, which has resulted in a range of designs with varying degrees of comfort and flexibility. The soles of Adidas skate shoes are generally thicker than most, which provides great impact protection and vibration reduction. However, this can also result in a reduced feel for the board, which some skaters may find unfavorable.
The pro models and the traditional skateboard line come with insoles specifically designed for skateboarding. The Adiprene insole, found in models like the Suciu and Superstar, stands out for its comfort and support. Some skaters, however, may find the rubber plating on the insole too grippy, causing socks to stick. For those using entry-price Adidas models, swapping out the insoles for something more substantial is recommended.
How Long Do Adidas Skate Shoes Last?
On average, you can expect Adidas skate shoes to last between 2 and 3 months with regular use. Like most skate shoes, wear and tear typically appear first on the flick areas, toe, and heel, depending on which tricks you perform the most. Some skaters have reported issues with the soles ripping before other parts of the shoe.
Final Thoughts
Adidas produces several high-quality skateboarding shoes that are durable, comfortable, and offer good protection. While they may lack some flexibility, they are still a great choice for both beginners and advanced skaters. Similar to Nike SB, it’s often possible to find Adidas skate shoes at discounted prices in retail stores. Keep an eye out for deals on models like the Vulc and Busenitz.
