6 Best Nike Skate Shoes, 60+ Shoes Tested in 2023
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We independently selected these top recommended pairs of Nike skate shoes after subjecting 50 pairs to rigorous weeks of wear-test. Whether you are a skate virtuoso or a non-skater eyeing for a durable, everyday skate sneaker, this selection is for you.
We also segregated our top choices into groups. Below you will find our top picks among slip-on shoes, suede variants, mid-tops, and budget-friendly sneakers.
Table of contents How we test sneakersBest overallBest retroBest low topBest mid-topBest valueMost popularComparison
Overview
How we test sneakers
- We buy all newly-released skate shoes with our own money and send them to our team of skate experts for wear-test and review.
- We also have a group of dedicated specialists that spends an average of 8 hours collating and summarizing all the user opinions for every shoe, about thousands of them.
- Our Corescore system puts together all the user opinions and scales them from 1-100 to show the best- and least-rated ones.
- We came up with these best lists based on the outtakes from the expert reviewers and user ratings.
Best Nike skate shoes overall
Corescore
Pros
- Supreme fit
- Comfortable in-shoe feel
- Durable upper construction
- Breathable
- Variety of colorways
- Tight lock with Nike's lace system
Cons
- Mesh is not as durable as the rest of the shoe
- Not the grippiest
- Hard to clean some areas
What makes it the best overall?
The Nike SB Nyjah Free 2 is a leading silhouette in the skateboard scene. Clearly beginning to see the skateboard market as an Olympic one, Nike has started using innovation from its Air Max lines in the Nyjah and we love it. From a sock-like fit to an enhanced board feel, there's a lot going on in the Nyah Free 2.
Best Nike retro skate sneakers
Corescore
Pros
- Snug fit
- Amazing colorways
- Can take a beating
- Excellent for skating
- Good ankle support
- Quality construction
- Comfy on foot
Cons
- Needs time to break in
- Pricey
What makes it the best retro?
The Nike SB Dunk High Pro does not only exhibit an attractive design. It also captures the favor of both members of the skate community and casual wearers for its reliable performance and versatility. This unwavering excellence is brought forth constantly by the new colorways and collaborations that keep its spirit alive.
Best Nike low top skate sneakers
Corescore
Pros
- Simple chicness
- Highly shock-absorbent
- Sticky
- Undeniably light
- All-day comfiness
- Breathable
- Endures countless flips
Cons
- Narrow toe box
- Flawed finish
What makes it the best low top?
Take your skate sneaker game a notch higher with the SB BLZR Court Daan Van Der Linden. This kick from Nike links up the classic court profile with modern skate elements, giving you more confidence as you strut the city streets or ride your skateboard. Also, its allure goes beyond the apparent classic styling and into the realm of surefootedness and longevity.
Best mid-top Nike skate shoes
Corescore
Pros
- Comfortable cushion
- Quality construction
- Unique
- Retro style
- Lightweight
- Supportive
- Durable
Cons
- Narrow toe box
What makes it the best mid-top?
Nike added another premium iteration to its Nike SB Blazer collection. The Nike SB Zoom Blazer Mid Premium is covered with high-quality materials, inserted with cozy and supportive features. Meanwhile, its style delivers a luxurious appeal that will quickly turn any usual outfit into a ritzy vibe. This model surely fits buyers who are searching for cheap sneakers with an upscale look.
Best value
Corescore
Pros
- Quite eye-catching
- Remarkably comfortable
- Supportive underfoot
- Tenacious on the board
- Exact fit
- Breathable
- Shoestrings remain tight
- Above-average board feel
- Cleans without hassle
Cons
- Somewhat tight at first
- Color fades too soon
What makes it the best value?
If people's adoration for its all-around appeal is anything to go by, the SB Chron 2 Canvas is definitely up there with the most style-versatile skate kicks. That greater feeling of control is also in this Nike shoe, whether you're running office errands or doing bowl tricks on the board. And have we mentioned its tongue-tying comfort level yet? Yes!
Most popular Nike skate shoes
Corescore
Pros
- Superb board control
- Extremely comfortable
- Long-lasting
- Effective impact protection
- Timeless profile
- Fashionably cool
- All-rounder
Cons
- Not too grippy
- Longer break-in period
What makes it the most popular?
The Nike SB Dunk Low, one of the popular Nike skate sneakers, is adored for its amply cushioned, Zoom Air integrated sole; reinforced upper that shields the feet from blows; and a hard-wearing rubber outsole that's ready for the abrasiveness of the sport. If you're a budget-conscious sneaker fan looking for a practical pair to own, this skate sneaker is a must in your sneaker options.
