How to Choose the Upper Material for Skate Shoes
Different upper materials have significant differences in the performance, durability, and comfort of skate shoes. Let's first understand what materials are available:
1. Suede Skate Shoes
Suede is made from calfskin, sheepskin, or pigskin. It features a soft, velvety texture. As an upper material for skate shoes, it is durable, offers good grip, and is relatively soft and comfortable to wear. However, it easily absorbs water and is not suitable for use in wet conditions.
2. Leather Skate Shoes
Leather is also made from calfskin, sheepskin, or pigskin. Compared to suede, leather is more water-resistant. As an upper material for skate shoes, it is highly durable and suitable for high-intensity skateboarding. Unlike suede, its better water resistance makes it usable in wetter environments. However, leather also has drawbacks: it is less breathable, can cause sweaty feet, and its higher cost results in more expensive shoes.
3. Synthetic Materials Skate Shoes
There are many types, such as synthetic leather and mesh fabric. Skate shoes with these uppers are usually lighter, reducing the burden on your feet, and they offer both water resistance and breathability. However, the durability and comfort of synthetic materials generally do not match those of natural materials.
4. Canvas Skate Shoes
Canvas is usually made from cotton, linen, or synthetic fibers. This material has excellent durability and strength, and it is very breathable, preventing stuffiness. As an upper material for skate shoes, it is lighter than leather, more breathable, and cost-effective. However, compared to leather, its durability is slightly inferior, and it is not water-resistant.
If you are engaging in high-intensity skateboarding, we recommend purchasing skate shoes with leather uppers. If you are only doing simple skateboarding, we recommend buying shoes with canvas or suede uppers, which tend to look better compared to leather.