Are you a skater looking to impress with your style both on and off the board? Well, I have some good news for you. Skate style is back in fashion along with the resurgence of many other popular ’90s trends.
From graphic street wear T-shirts to timeless Vans sneakers, many elements can help you rock the look. However, besides street-chic designs, you also have to remember to pick clothes that are comfortable and durable and which won’t get in the way of performing tricks.
Even though skateboarding has one of the laxest dress code requirements of any sport, you still need to be mindful when choosing. Here are some tips that will ensure you feel comfortable and confident at the skate park and on the streets.
T-Shirts
Even though they have little effect on performance, appropriate shirts are a catalyst for riding comfort. For instance, cotton shirts are softer than shirts made of polyester or other materials.
However, nylon, polyester and other technical fabrics can help keep you cool and dry while skating due to their moisture-wicking properties. And whether you’re a girl or a boy, owning this cooling shirt will save you from overheating or sweating in humid conditions.
When it comes to designs, you’ll be spoiled for choice. But it goes without saying, that a graphic tee is an indispensable part of a skater’s ensemble. To nail the look, use loose, oversized garments imprinted with a brand name, image, phrase, or logo when shopping. You can also show your support to your favourite skate shop by wearing cool street wear T-shirts branded with their logo or name.
The top skate businesses continue to produce the best street wear T-shirts despite other luxury brands’ attempts to imitate the look. And best of all, they won’t be as costly to your wallet.
To preserve a genuine skating look, be sure to use crew-neck cuts. You should also feel free to layer your graphic tee for a stylish vintage appearance. Wear your T-shirt with an open overshirt, preferably one with a check pattern, to accomplish this.
Hoodies, tank tops, or any other upper clothing that is comfortable and doesn’t impede your movement can also be worn.
Pants
Your search for pants should centre on comfort and mobility. Try performing a kickflip while wearing tight jeans. Not simple, right? Sweatpants, however, rip readily, making them unsuitable as skatewear.
Look for well-fitted, cosy, and durable pants, such as cargo pants, straight-cut, loose-fitting jeans, or chinos. Cargo shorts, denim shorts, chino shorts, or basketball shorts are all suitable options for this outfit on warm days.
Due to their durability, work pants and cargo pants, like those from Dickies, have long been favourites among skaters. These pants are still a great choice for individuals who want to flaunt the skater style today.
Chinos can provide a similar appearance while giving outfits a contemporary edge. Simply select a cropped, wide-leg shape or cuff a straight-leg design to a few centimetres above your ankles to wear a pair like a skater.
Outerwear
A skater must be warm without limiting movement on those rare occasions when it gets cool down here in Australia. Typically, skaters wear hoodies, denim jackets, or baggy flannel shirts as outerwear. Layering is always helpful if you don’t know what the weather will bring. A denim jacket over a hoodie is the classic outfit that’s equal parts cosy and cool.
Headwear
Technically, you should wear a helmet when using a skateboard. However, if you’re not competing at the X-Games level, you can typically get away with wearing some slightly more fashionable headwear. Because they stay on their heads when skating quickly across the streets, most skaters choose a snapback or bucket hat.
Accessories
Skate fashion may focus more on functionality than on fashion, but that doesn’t mean you can’t accessorise to the nines. Pick up a vintage wallet chain for a classic skating appearance. These chains served to support a rebellious look while keeping wallets safe during the ollies and 360s. They’ve experienced a slight revival today, but it takes confidence to pull it off.
Consider purchasing a pair of tube socks, a bag, and a branded cap for something more convenient to wear. Or, go all ’90s with a bum bag slung casually across your chest and a bucket hat.
Sneakers
It’s crucial to pick appropriate shoes if you want to perfect your skater outfit. Although there are many new companies selling excellent skate shoes, it is always best to stick with the traditional styles. So be sure to seek to companies like Vans and Converse for footwear if you want an authentic skate look.
Choose low-top shoes like a pair of Vans Old Skools to keep things casual. Or, if you enjoy the throwback look, go for high-top sneakers like Vans Sk8-His or Converse All Stars. Regarding colour, pairing black with white is always a good choice, but you may also experiment with an intense colour like red.
