Does skateboarding ruin shoes? (Prevention Tips)

Skateboarding has long been an important part of culture for many people, and their admirers.

But does skateboarding irreparably damage your shoes? Many may have asked this question over the years, as you tend to see a lot of abrasion on skateboarders’ kicks after wheeled away from the street.

Can your beloved high-tops still be used once they’ve done some time grinding around town? We’ll take a look at why some swear skateboarding ruins shoes while others come back unscathed.

For those who are just getting into skating, there’s no need to despair – with a few simple tips we can help ensure that hitting the pavement won’t burst any bubbles in your sneaks.

Quick Guide: Skateboarding will damage most shoes, but the extent of damage depends on the type of shoe and how often you skateboard. Generally, shoes with softer materials such as suede or canvas will show signs of wear more quickly than shoes composed of harder substances like leather or rubber. While it may be impossible to completely prevent your shoes from deteriorating when skateboarding, making sure you adequately clean and care for your shoes regularly can go a long way in prolonging their lifespan, regardless of the occasion.

Does skateboarding ruin shoes?

Yes, skateboarding can absolutely ruin shoes. While the right pair of skate shoes can last quite a while, that doesn’t mean you should use them for skateboarding.

Whether they are leather, canvas or suede, after all that spinning, sliding and flipping your sneakers will start to look weathered and worn.

For example, the sole of the shoe will start to separate from the upper, lose its traction due to regular contact with the pavement and rip or tear at the toes.

If you choose to skate in your shows regardless of their quality, it’s highly likely that you’ll have to go through pairs pretty quickly.

With all that said, however, if you’re brave enough it could add an interesting element of rugged swag to your wardrobe.

How can skateboarding ruin shoes?

Many skateboarders have experienced the unfortunate side effects of their hobby on their beloved shoes, leaving them worn out and damaged. But why does skateboarding ruin shoes? Let’s take a look at what happens when skateboards and shoes collide.

• Abrasion: Skateboarding involves a lot of grinding, sliding and flipping which all take their toll on the sole of the shoe. Constant contact with the pavement leads to wear and tear quickly.

• Dirt and debris: Repeatedly hitting the ground during stunts causes dirt, gravel, dust and other particles to stick to your shoes. This build-up can cause your shoes to wear down more quickly and become stiff, uncomfortable and unappealing.

• Grip: Shoes with a sticky, rubber sole are designed to provide the grip you need while skateboarding. But after extended use, those same soles lose their stickiness due to wear and tear from contact with the pavement.

How can I prevent my shoes from getting ruined by skateboarding?

If you’ve ever gone skateboarding, you know how important it is to have a good pair of shoes. But if you’re not careful, they can easily get ruined after a few rounds.

Thankfully, there are some simple tricks that can help protect your shoes from the wear and tear of skateboarding.

Here are five tips for keeping your shoes safe while still enjoying the sport.

◈ Invest in Quality Shoes –

The quality of your shoes will make all the difference when it comes to protecting them from skateboarding damage.

Make sure that you invest in a durable pair of shoes that are designed specifically for skateboarding and that provide plenty of ankle support.

That way, even if you take a few spills, your shoes will be able to withstand the impact better than cheaper alternatives.

◈ Wear Protective Gear –

Wearing protective gear such as kneepads and elbow pads is essential for anyone who wants to take up skateboarding.

Not only does this help keep you safe from any potential injuries, but it also helps protect your shoes from getting scuffed or scratched during falls or jumps.

It’s also worth investing in some gloves to keep your hands from slipping on the board while you’re riding.

◈ Clean Your Shoes Regularly –

Dirt and grime can quickly accumulate on your skateboard shoes over time, which can lead to discoloration or premature wear-and-tear.

To avoid this, make sure to clean off any dirt or debris after each session so that it doesn’t have time to set into the fabric of your shoe.

This will help extend the life of your skateboard shoes and keep them looking like new for longer periods of time.

◈ Use Shoe Shields –

A shoe shield is a great way to add an extra layer of protection between your shoe and the board itself.

Many companies now offer special shields designed specifically for skateboarders that fit directly onto the bottom of their shoe.

This helps reduce any friction between the two surfaces and prevents scuffs or scratches on either one. They’re usually inexpensive and easy to install.

◈ Add Insoles –

If you really want to give yourself an extra layer of protection against shock absorption while skating, then adding insoles is a great option.

Not only do they provide cushioning while riding, but they also help absorb some of the impact when landing jumps or performing tricks.

So they can definitely come in handy if you’re someone who likes pushing their limits on a board.

How often do shoes need to be replaced because of skateboarding?

Just like with any other type of shoe, the amount of wear and tear your shoes will suffer from skateboarding depends on a variety of factors including the material they are made from, the quality of shoes and how often you use them.

On average, most skateboarders need to replace their shoes every 3-6 months.

Canvas or suede shoes tend to wear out more quickly than leather or rubber ones, so if you want your kicks to last for longer then opt for a pair of hardwearing trainers.