Converse sneakers hold a unique place in the history of both fashion and skateboarding. While they were once a must-have for everyday wear, their transition into skate culture is complex. So, the question remains: are Converse shoes actually good for skateboarding? The short answer is both yes and no, and it largely depends on the specific model and how you plan to use them. Let’s dive into the details.
Converse does offer a dedicated line of skate shoes, known as Converse CONS, that are specifically designed for skateboarding. These models incorporate features that cater to the demands of skating, making them a viable option. However, not all Converse shoes are created equal when it comes to skateboarding, so careful consideration is key.
Close-up of Converse shoes on a skateboard deck
What Makes Converse CONS a Good Choice for Skateboarding?
The Converse CONS line is where you’ll find the most suitable options for skateboarding within the Converse brand. These shoes take the classic Converse style and revamp it with skateboarding in mind. Key features that make them good for skating include:
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Proprietary Rubber Soles: The CONS line features rubber outsoles made with Converse’s CONS Traction Rubber, which is designed to enhance grip, durability, and flexibility. This allows skaters to feel their board more effectively, an essential aspect of control.
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Enhanced Cushioning: Unlike the traditional Chuck Taylor All-Stars, the CONS models feature increased cushioning in the insole. This improvement provides better shock absorption and distributes impact, which are essential for comfort and protection during skating.
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Skate-Specific Design Features: Many models within the CONS line come equipped with additional features like elasticated tongues for a snug fit, reinforced rubber toe caps for durability, and mid- or high-top options for enhanced ankle support.
While the CONS line is a strong option, remember that material matters. Suede is the best choice for skateboarding, while canvas versions should be avoided by technical skaters. Canvas is prone to tearing and won’t hold up to the constant friction from grip tape, making it less than ideal for serious skating. Canvas might be okay for casual cruising, but not for tricks.
Converse Louie Lopez pro skate shoe
The Evolution of Converse in Skateboarding
Converse originally gained popularity as basketball shoes, utilizing canvas and rubber for a lightweight and flexible design that provided good grip. Early skateboarders, initially emulating surfing by going barefoot, eventually sought similar control in footwear. They adopted the Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star, finding it to meet their needs. The same traits that made the Chuck Taylor a good basketball shoe made it a functional skate shoe, as it provided flexibility and board feel.
However, during the skateboarding boom of the 1980s, new brands entered the market with skate-specific designs and better materials. Converse faded in popularity as brands like Vans and Airwalk offered more durable shoes made with suede or leather, and enhanced cushioning.
Recognizing the need for a dedicated skate line, Converse resurrected its CONS line in 2009, a collection originally designed as basketball shoes in the 1980s. The modern CONS line blends classic Converse style with functional improvements that cater specifically to the needs of skateboarders.
What Are the Hallmarks of a Good Skate Shoe?
While you could theoretically skate in any shoe, the right pair of skate shoes will maximize comfort, performance, and safety, reducing the chances of injury. Skate shoes should be:
- Lightweight: Heavy shoes can slow a skater down and lead to fatigue, while also hindering board feel.
- Flexible: Flexibility allows skaters to maintain balance and control, especially when slipping or performing tricks.
- Durable: Skate shoes need to withstand a lot of wear and tear from grip tape and the overall rigors of skateboarding.
- Supportive: A good skate shoe will provide adequate cushioning and shock absorption to protect the feet, particularly the heels.
The outer sole is essential for durability and flexibility, so many brands, including Converse CONS, use vulcanized rubber for grip and toughness. Furthermore, midsoles and insoles often feature shock-absorbing padding, which is essential for reducing the impact on the feet. The overall cost of a skate shoe should also be factored in. Since skate shoes tend to wear out relatively quickly, finding a balance between durability and affordability is important. It is often smarter to choose an affordable shoe, knowing you’ll likely need to replace it sooner.
Ankle Support: Low-tops, Mid-tops, or High-tops?
Ankle support is a key factor when choosing a skate shoe, and the right level of support depends on your personal preference and skating style. The main options include:
- Low-Tops: These provide the greatest range of motion and are the lightest option but offer minimal ankle protection. This makes you more vulnerable to injuries like abrasions and bruises.
- High-Tops: They offer maximum ankle support and protection, reducing the risk of injuries from impact, though they might decrease board feel and breathability.
- Mid-Tops: A good compromise between low and high tops, providing some ankle protection while still offering a good range of motion.
Other Brands to Consider
While Converse is a viable option, the market offers many excellent skate shoe brands, such as:
- Vans: A classic skate brand, Vans uses its own proprietary waffle-patterned rubber sole, along with cushioned insoles, and offers a wide variety of styles.
- Adidas: With a history in athletic wear, Adidas offers a skate-specific line with vulcanized rubber soles and lightweight cushioning.
- Nike SB: Though not typically associated with skateboarding, Nike has developed a popular skate line, Nike SB, which offers stylish, comfortable, and functional skate shoes.
Selection of skate shoes from various brands
Final Thoughts
Skateboarders need a shoe that provides a balance of durability, flexibility, and board feel, while also ensuring comfort and protection. The market offers many viable options, and Converse, particularly its CONS line, is indeed a strong choice that caters to these needs. Their CONS line offers a blend of classic Converse style with practical features that make them suitable for skateboarding, provided you opt for the right materials like suede.
Choosing the right skate shoe is a matter of personal preference. When making your selection, consider your style of skating, the amount of protection you need, and your budget.
By carefully considering these factors, you’ll be on your way to finding the ideal skate shoes that will help you progress and stay safe on your board.
