2020’s Top 5 Essential Skate Shoes – Skate Mag

Skateboarding, a subculture born from the streets, has steadily risen to become a defining force in the worlds of streetwear and sneaker culture. With the sport poised to make its highly-anticipated debut at the postponed Tokyo 2020 Summer Games, the spotlight on skate shoes has never shone brighter. For skate enthusiasts, the pursuit of the perfect balance between style and performance is a perpetual quest. To simplify this journey, we’ve undertaken the task of meticulously curating a comprehensive list of the top 5 must-have skate shoes for 2020.

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New Balance Numeric 913: The Running Evolution of Skate

New Balance Numeric’s 913 stands as a testament to the brand’s dedication to innovation and performance. Designed in collaboration with team rider Brandon Westgate, this shoe seamlessly merges the expertise of running technology with the demands of skateboarding. Engineered to withstand the rigors of impactful landings, the 913 employs REVlite support, an N2 heel cushioning system, and an exterior heel clip for enhanced stabilization. Despite its remarkable performance capabilities, this skate shoe retains a sleek and lightweight profile, making it a go-to choice for those who crave big moves without the bulk.

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Nike SB Shane: Simplicity Meets Technical Excellence

The Nike SB Shane, bearing the name of one of skateboarding’s most technically gifted individuals, Shane O’Neill, embraces a philosophy of simplicity and functionality. This signature shoe is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail that O’Neill brings to his craft. “For me, it’s about the simplicity of the shoe,” he says. “It maintains everything that’s needed for skating.” From the height of the heel to the grippiness of the sole and the tongue straps, every element has been fine-tuned for optimal skate performance. Moreover, with a price point of just $80, skaters can focus on honing their skills without worrying about their footwear.

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adidas Skateboarding Matchbreak Super: Classic Looks, Hidden Performance

The adidas Skateboarding Matchbreak Super made its entrance at the start of the year, captivating skate enthusiasts with its classic low-cut aesthetics and a wealth of concealed performance features. Crafted from premium suede and full-grain leather, this skate shoe introduces a Japan-inspired colorway, paying homage to a rich cultural heritage. Comfort and durability are at the forefront, with a molded Adiprene sockliner and ADITUFF toe reinforcement providing all-day support. The distinctive gum sole adds a touch of tradition to the overall aesthetic, ensuring that skaters can roll in style without compromising on performance.

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Vans Rowan Pro: Where Tradition Meets Modern Innovation

The Vans Rowan Pro marries tradition and modernity in a vulc-style low-top design. Inspired by the unique blend of old and new found in the skateboarder Rowan Zorilla himself, this shoe combines resilient synthetic materials with triple-stitched suede overlays where it matters most. The real innovations, however, lie within the sole. The SickStick gum rubber outsole delivers unrivaled grip, while the PopCush midsole foam ensures exceptional impact absorption and energy return. Vans has crafted its grippiest rubber ever, making the Rowan Pro the perfect choice for those seeking a harmonious fusion of style and skate performance.

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adidas Skateboarding Copa Nationale: A Tribute to Sporting Heritage

The adidas Skateboarding Copa Nationale draws inspiration from the brand’s illustrious sport heritage. With a design influenced by indoor soccer shoes and a low-profile silhouette, this skate shoe captures the energy of the early 2000s in skate culture while incorporating modern sensibilities. Crafted from premium leather and mesh, the Copa Nationale strikes a balance between style and performance. The texturized rubber tip enhances grip and boardfeel, while the Cloudfoam heel absorbs impact seamlessly. Just like the Matchbreak Super, the Copa Nationale prioritizes nimbleness and responsiveness, ensuring that skateboarders can push the boundaries of their creativity.

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Each of these skate shoes represents a culmination of meticulous design, engineering, and craftsmanship. They offer a unique amalgamation of style, comfort, and performance, catering to the diverse needs of skateboarders. As skate culture continues to evolve, these essential footwear choices stand as a testament to the pinnacle of skate shoe design in 2020. Whether navigating the urban landscape or conquering skate parks, these exceptional shoes are poised to elevate the skating experience to unprecedented heights, serving as beacons of inspiration for skateboarders worldwide.

Skateboarding’s influence on sneaker and streetwear culture has been profound, and as the sport gains momentum ahead of its Olympic debut, the demand for stylish yet high-performing skate shoes has surged. In response to this trend, footwear brands have elevated their game, introducing innovative designs that cater to the evolving needs of skateboarders. The following compilation presents the top 5 essential skate shoes for 2020, each embodying a unique blend of style, durability, and technical prowess.

New Balance Numeric 913: Running Expertise Meets Skate Performance

New Balance Numeric’s 913 stands as a testament to the brand’s dedication to innovation and performance. Designed in collaboration with team rider Brandon Westgate, this shoe seamlessly merges the expertise of running technology with the demands of skateboarding. Engineered to withstand the rigors of impactful landings, the 913 employs REVlite support, an N2 heel cushioning system, and an exterior heel clip for enhanced stabilization. Despite its remarkable performance capabilities, this skate shoe retains a sleek and lightweight profile, making it a go-to choice for those who crave big moves without the bulk.

—

Nike SB Shane: Simplicity Meets Technical Excellence

The Nike SB Shane, bearing the name of one of skateboarding’s most technically gifted individuals, Shane O’Neill, embraces a philosophy of simplicity and functionality. This signature shoe is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail that O’Neill brings to his craft. “For me, it’s about the simplicity of the shoe,” he says. “It maintains everything that’s needed for skating.” From the height of the heel to the grippiness of the sole and the tongue straps, every element has been fine-tuned for optimal skate performance. Moreover, with a price point of just $80, skaters can focus on honing their skills without worrying about their footwear.

—

adidas Skateboarding Matchbreak Super: Classic Looks, Hidden Performance

The adidas Skateboarding Matchbreak Super made its entrance at the start of the year, captivating skate enthusiasts with its classic low-cut aesthetics and a wealth of concealed performance features. Crafted from premium suede and full-grain leather, this skate shoe introduces a Japan-inspired colorway, paying homage to a rich cultural heritage. Comfort and durability are at the forefront, with a molded Adiprene sockliner and ADITUFF toe reinforcement providing all-day support. The distinctive gum sole adds a touch of tradition to the overall aesthetic, ensuring that skaters can roll in style without compromising on performance.

—

Vans Rowan Pro: Where Tradition Meets Modern Innovation

The Vans Rowan Pro marries tradition and modernity in a vulc-style low-top design. Inspired by the unique blend of old and new found in the skateboarder Rowan Zorilla himself, this shoe combines resilient synthetic materials with triple-stitched suede overlays where it matters most. The real innovations, however, lie within the sole. The SickStick gum rubber outsole delivers unrivaled grip,