What brands do skateboarders prefer to wear?
Skateboarders typically choose apparel crafted by skateboarding brands, as the fit and style of these garments better accommodate the needs of skateboarding. They often select looser-fitting clothes for greater freedom of movement and opt for higher quality or thicker materials for increased durability, resulting in skateboarding clothing having a slightly unique character.
In terms of footwear, skaters almost exclusively choose shoes specifically engineered for skateboarding because of their boardfeel, durability, and shock-absorbing properties. This is why brands like Vans and Nike SB hold such significant positions in the skateboarding community.
Here’s an overview of some prominent skateboarding brands, featuring Nike SB, Thrasher, Santa Cruz & more!
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, one of the oldest skateboard brands still in existence, is a mainstay in the industry. Their collection of t-shirts, hoodies, and accessories is more popular than ever, thanks to their world-renowned screaming hand and dot logos.
Favoured by both skateboarders and surfers, Santa Cruz also offers a wide variety of skateboard decks and cruisers, solidifying its reputation as a brand true to the core of skateboarding.
Thrasher
Although Thrasher Magazine has been around for quite some time, their entry into the fashion realm has only occurred in recent years. They made a splash with their iconic chest print logo design, and have continued to grow, partnering with other well-known skate brands to create some outstanding collections.
As the largest and most beloved skateboarding magazine, they are poised to remain among the most popular skate brands for many years to come.
Vans
Vans, loved and recognized globally, are at the forefront of skateboarding fashion. Originating in California around the same time as skateboarding, their grippy waffle sole endeared them to the sport's early pioneers, playing a crucial role in shaping skateboarding as we know it today.
Today, Vans Old Skool, Slip-Ons, Authentics, and Era lines are extremely popular across various demographics due to their effortless, casual style and unparalleled comfort. Their apparel range is also of excellent quality and consistently ranks as one of our top-selling brands each year.
Element
Established in 1992, Element is another major player in the skateboarding industry. Their team has included some of the sport's biggest stars over the years, such as Jackass’s Bam Margera and, more recently, Nyjah Huston.
Originally a board company, Element also manufactures a variety of skateboarding hardware, clothing, and accessories. Their clothing lines are favored by skaters of all ages and are well-known for their t-shirts, jackets, and coats, often featuring their Water, Wind, Fire, Earth logo.
Huf
Founded by the late professional skateboarder Keith Hufnagel, HUF is a brand that exudes authentic skateboarding style. Their motto, “Made by skateboarders, for skateboarders,” underscores their identity, but HUF also appeals to anyone who identifies with counter-culture.
Known for their Plantlife sock range, which gained them widespread popularity in recent years, HUF clothing is celebrated for its excellent craftsmanship, distinctive designs, and frequent collaborations. As a brand deeply embedded in skateboarding culture, it is especially favored by dedicated skaters.
Nike SB
As a leading global brand, Nike has the capability to revolutionize skateboarding footwear and fashion, and they are doing just that. By consistently integrating new technologies into their designs and drawing from fashion tech in other sportswear, Nike is infusing a modern flair into skate wear.
Nike SB's Stefan Janoski, P-Rod, Koston, and the iconic Dunk footwear models are all testaments to their legacy and innovation in skateboarding. Their clothing line includes a variety of t-shirts, hoodies, jackets, chinos, and caps, incorporating classic skate styles that align with the demanding nature of skateboarding.
Independent
Primarily a hardware company, Independent's clothing line has gained popularity due to the company's values and the quality of its components. Known as a purist skate brand, Independent produces durable, straightforward trucks that come with a lifetime guarantee. This level of confidence in their hardware explains why their clothing is equally sought after.
Staying true to their roots, Independent clothing predominantly features either their cross or bar logo as a chest or back print, with a fresh twist each season. Having collaborated with other legendary skate brands over the years such as Baker or Supreme, Independent is unmistakably a genuine skate brand.
Explore our full selection of skate clothing here!