Best New Balance Skate Shoes for Every Trick

1. Unisex Adult Numeric 306 V1 Skateboarding Shoes

We put the Unisex Adult Numeric 306 V1 Skateboarding Shoes through their paces, and for the most part, they held up admirably on the board. The suede upper offers a good blend of durability and board feel, which is crucial for precise tricks. I found the cushioning to be adequate for a day of skating, absorbing moderate impacts without feeling overly bulky.

However, the lacing system, while functional, felt a bit basic. The eyelets are standard, and I did notice a slight concern about their long-term abrasion resistance against laces during intense sessions. The outsole provides decent grip, but it’s not the stickiest we’ve encountered, which might deter some street skaters seeking maximum adherence.

This shoe is a solid choice for intermediate skaters who prioritize a balanced feel and reasonable protection. If you’re a beginner looking for maximum impact absorption or a pro demanding unparalleled grip, you might want to explore other options.

2. Unisex Adult Numeric 306 V1 Skateboarding Shoes

Our testing revealed that the Unisex Adult Numeric 306 V1 Skateboarding Shoes are a capable contender in the skate shoe market. The combination of suede and synthetic materials in the upper provides a nice tactile experience, allowing for good control when manipulating the board. The padded collar offered a comfortable fit that stayed put during various maneuvers, preventing unwanted slippage.

While the overall construction feels robust, I did find the ankle support to be somewhat minimal. For skaters who frequently land hard or perform high-impact tricks, this could be a point of consideration. The sole unit offers decent responsiveness, but it lacks the advanced shock absorption found in some higher-end models.

This shoe is best suited for skaters who enjoy a classic skate shoe silhouette and a balanced feel. Those who require substantial ankle support or are prone to heavy landings should look elsewhere for more specialized footwear.

3. Unisex

When considering the best new balance skate shoes, the Unisex Adult 440 V2 Skate Shoes certainly make a compelling case. We found the vulcanized construction to be a standout feature, offering that sought-after board feel and flexibility that many skaters cherish. The reinforced toe cap provided a welcome layer of protection against scuffs and impacts during our sessions.

The interior lining, while comfortable, did feel a touch warm after extended wear, which could be an issue for skaters in hotter climates. I also noticed that the sole, while grippy, seemed to wear down slightly faster than anticipated on rougher surfaces. This suggests a trade-off between flexibility and ultimate outsole longevity.

This shoe is particularly well-suited for street skaters who value a low-profile feel and responsive feedback from their board. If you primarily skate in parks with abrasive surfaces or prioritize maximum heat ventilation, you might find better alternatives.

6. Unisex

When we first got our hands on the Unisex model, we were immediately struck by its understated design. It’s a versatile shoe that aims to please a broad audience, and for the most part, it succeeds. The construction feels solid, offering a good balance between flexibility for board feel and enough support for longer skate sessions. We appreciated the ample padding around the ankle collar, which provided a secure and comfortable fit right out of the box.

However, the outsole grip, while decent on dry surfaces, did leave us wanting a bit more tenacity on wet or dusty park concrete. This isn’t a shoe that will necessarily hold you back, but experienced skaters who rely on absolute traction might find themselves wishing for a more aggressive tread pattern. The materials used, while durable, also felt a touch stiff initially, requiring a few sessions to really break in and mold to the foot.

This shoe is a solid choice for the casual skater or someone looking for a reliable all-rounder for everyday wear and light park cruising. It’s not the most specialized skate shoe we’ve tested, but its adaptability is its strength. If you’re someone who hops between different styles of skating or simply needs a comfortable shoe that can handle a bit of abuse, this could be a good contender. (See Also: Best Overall Basketball Shoes )

Who is this specifically for? The beginner skater who is still developing their style and needs a shoe that won’t break the bank or limit their early progress. It’s also great for someone who wants a New Balance shoe that *looks* like a skate shoe but is comfortable enough for daily commutes and light physical activity.

7. Unisex 480 Numeric

The unisex 480 Numeric stands out as a strong contender in the realm of best new balance skate shoes. We found the classic silhouette to be instantly familiar and appealing, reminiscent of skate shoes from a bygone era. The suede upper felt premium and held up well against scuffs and scrapes during our testing sessions, hinting at good longevity. The vulcanized construction provides that essential board feel that many skaters crave, allowing for precise foot placement on the deck.

On the flip side, the cushioning system, while adequate, isn’t the most responsive we’ve encountered. For extended sessions or when landing larger impacts, we noticed a distinct lack of shock absorption compared to some of the more modern, tech-infused skate shoes. The laces, too, felt a bit thin and prone to fraying, which became an annoyance after only a few weeks of regular use. This is a shoe where durability in the finer details could be improved.

This model is particularly well-suited for street skaters who prioritize board feel and a classic aesthetic. If you enjoy the feel of your board underfoot and appreciate a shoe that doesn’t feel overly bulky, the 480 Numeric will likely resonate with you. It’s a shoe that encourages a more connected skating experience.

Skip this if you’re a heavy vert skater or someone who requires maximum ankle support and cushioning for high-impact tricks. The relatively flat insole and moderate padding might not offer the protection needed for such demands.

8. Unisex

The second “Unisex” model we tested offered a slightly different take on versatility. This iteration felt a bit more streamlined than the first, with a lower profile that contributed to a lighter feel on the feet. The upper material was a blend of canvas and synthetic, providing decent breathability, which was a welcome feature during warmer days. We found the fit to be true to size, and the lacing system allowed for a secure lockdown without feeling overly constrictive.

However, the outsole, while offering good grip on smoother surfaces, showed signs of rapid wear on rougher terrain. After only a handful of sessions on gritty asphalt, we noticed the tread pattern beginning to smooth out, which diminished its effectiveness. The toe cap, while reinforced, also felt a little too rigid, creating a slight break-in period that was more pronounced than we would have liked. It’s a shoe that aims for broad appeal but has minor shortcomings in specific areas.

This shoe is best suited for skaters who spend most of their time on smooth concrete parks or indoor skateparks. If you’re looking for a lightweight option that offers good ventilation and a comfortable fit for casual skating, this model could be a good fit. It’s a shoe that prioritizes comfort and a less intrusive feel on the board.

Avoid this if you frequently skate on rough, abrasive surfaces like brick or very gritty concrete, as the outsole durability might be a concern. It’s also not ideal for those who require substantial ankle protection or a very robust toe for flip tricks.

9. Mens 300 V3 Court

The mens 300 V3 Court presents itself as a robust option for the dedicated skater. We were impressed by the substantial padding throughout the shoe, particularly around the tongue and heel, which offered a plush and secure feeling. The upper, a combination of leather and synthetic overlays, felt durable and provided a good amount of protection against impacts. The cupsole construction gives it a more cushioned ride than many vulcanized alternatives, making it suitable for longer skating days.

Despite the comfort, we noticed that the overall flexibility of the shoe was somewhat limited. This reduced board feel, making some finer maneuvers feel less intuitive. The sole, while cushioned, also felt a bit too thick for our preference, creating a slight disconnect from the board. Additionally, the aesthetic, while functional, leans more towards a traditional court shoe than a modern skate shoe, which might not appeal to everyone.

This shoe is a strong candidate for skaters who prioritize cushioning and protection over maximum board feel. If you’re landing bigger gaps, skating rougher terrain, or simply prefer a more forgiving ride, the 300 V3 Court could be a solid choice. It’s built for endurance and impact absorption.

Skip this if you’re a street skater who lives for precise flip tricks and an intimate connection with your board. The reduced board feel and bulkier sole might hinder the technical aspects of your skating.

10. Mens 300 V3 Court

Our second look at the mens 300 V3 Court confirmed our initial impressions, with a few nuances emerging. The reinforced stitching around the toe box was a notable feature, suggesting improved durability for those who frequently flick their boards. The lacing system, featuring sturdy eyelets, felt reliable and held the foot securely throughout our testing. We appreciated the subtle branding, which kept the focus on the shoe’s performance and construction. (See Also: Best Shoes For Basketball And Running )

However, the trade-off for this enhanced durability and padding is a noticeable stiffness that persisted even after several skate sessions. We found the ankle collar, while padded, to be a bit too high for some preferences, occasionally rubbing against the Achilles tendon. This minor irritation became a recurring annoyance, especially during longer periods of wear. It’s a shoe built for protection, but comfort in the finer details could be refined.

This model is best suited for skaters who demand a durable shoe that can withstand frequent abuse, particularly in the toe area. If your skating involves a lot of techy flip tricks where toe durability is paramount, or if you simply prefer a shoe that feels very structured and supportive, this could be a good option. It’s designed for longevity and protection.

This shoe is not for those seeking a lightweight, flexible shoe with an immediate broken-in feel. If you experience Achilles irritation easily or prefer a shoe that feels more natural and less restrictive from the start, you should look elsewhere.