Are Skate Shoes Back in Style?

Much like other 2000s fashion moments, skate shoes are back in style this year. At first, I didn’t know how to feel about the trend (similar to low-rise jeans, I feel a bit scarred by my early teens fashion choices), but there are actually so many different ways to try the trend—including some more minimalist silhouettes. And, there’s one sneaker that totally changed how I feel about the return of skate shoes and made me want to add the style to my regular rotation.

My Review of the Cariuma UBA Sneakers

Cariuma UBA Sneakers in White Leather Leopard

Buy Now $169

Sizes Available: 5-13
Colors: 14
Material: Leather, suede, or mixed

The Cariuma UBA Sneakers in White Leather Leopard are the sneakers that made me want to try the skate shoe trend. They’re not as chunky as the original sneaker style and feel like a nice way to capture the style in a more modern way. I have them in the white leather and leopard combo, but they also come in 14 other colors and are available in leather, suede, or a mix of the two. The shoes also feature more eco-friendly construction with a mix of recycled and bio-based materials, including a flexible and supportive cork insole.

Aside from their looks and construction, these sneakers are super comfy. I’ve walked miles in them and recently wore them to The O.C. Fair, and my arches and ankles felt supported and comfortable despite being on my feet for hours. Since they are made of leather, they get a little warm in the Los Angeles heat, but they’re not as bad as some other leather sneakers I’ve worn (and I never get blisters).

Shop More Skate Shoes for Fall

Whether you love the look of the OG chunky skate shoe silhouette—think: OSIRIS D3 OG Skate Shoes—or want something that is more of a subtle nod to the style, there are so many different skate shoes to shop right now.

Vans Knu Skool Shoe

Image Credit: Vans

Vans Knu Skool Shoe

$75 Buy Now at vans

$75 Buy Now at footlocker

For a timeless pair of skate shoes that is always on trend, Vans is the way to go. I love the look of the Vans Knu Skool Shoe because it has that classic Vans look, but with a puffier silhouette. The shoe is constructed with suede uppers and features the brand’s signature rubber outsole with waffle texture, giving it some extra traction. The chunky Vans shoe also has more oversized features that are bound to make a statement, including a 3D molded side stripe. It’s comfortable, cool, and a fun way to dip your toes in the trend—literally—with an old school vibe.

Sizes Available: 5-17.5
Colors: 21
Material: Suede, rubber
NB Numeric Tiago Lemos

Image Credit: New Balance

NB Numeric Tiago Lemos

$110 Buy Now at new balance

$110 Buy Now at Amazon

The NB Numeric Tiago Lemos are another easy way to give the skate shoe trend a go. These heritage sneakers are inspired by 90s skateboarding trends, giving them a more retro appearance. They’re also constructed with lots of comfort details, including lots of cushion around the opening and a rubber cup outsole for excellent traction.

Sizes Available: 5.5-15.5
Colors: 2
Material: FuelCell foam, rubber, textile
OSIRIS D3 OG Skate Shoes

Image Credit: Tilly's

OSIRIS D3 OG Skate Shoes

$98 Buy Now at tillys

$98 Buy Now at zappos

When I think of the skate shoe trend of the early 2000s, I immediately think of OSIRIS sneakers. As it turns out, the D3 OG Skate Shoes are still around and very on trend. These chunky sneakers are constructed from a durable synthetic leather with thick shoe laces, elastic detailing on the tongue, and rubber outsoles for great traction. They also have a padded tongue and collar for additional comfort that make you feel like you’re walking on clouds. If you want to really lean into this trend, these are the ones to get.

Sizes Available: 5.5-11.5
Colors: 1
Material: Synthetic leather, textile, rubber
PUMA Suede XL Denim Women’s Sneakers

Image Credit: PUMA

PUMA Suede XL Denim Women’s Sneakers

$90 Buy Now at puma

$65 Buy Now at zappos

If you love the look of the puffy skate shoe style, the PUMA Suede XL Denim Women’s Sneakers are another fun silhouette to shop. These chunky suede sneakers feature a blend of suede and denim on the uppers with a durable rubber outsole. I love that they’re inspired by the brand’s iconic Y2K style with its ultra-thick laces and oversized tongue. The denim details are also Y2K coded in a less-obvious way, so they’re a great match for those who like the denim accessory comeback but want something a bit more minimal.

Sizes Available: 5.5-11
Colors: 1
Material: Suede, denim, rubber
Steve Madden Boomer Sneaker

Image Credit: Steve Madden

Steve Madden Boomer Sneaker

$90 Buy Now

The skate shoe trend is inspired by a sneaker style that you can actually skate in. But, if you want a more exaggerated style, go with the Steve Madden Boomer Sneaker. These chunky platform sneakers feature a skate shoe silhouette with an oversized tongue, 1.5-inch heel height, and thick shoe laces. I love these shoes in the all white colorway, but they also come in some other styles, including some ultra-detailed designs, like one with a studded belt and another with a twisted yarn shoe lace style.

Sizes Available: 5-14
Colors: 6
Material: Vegan leather