Skater fashion has progressed significantly since the days of voluminous trousers, XXXL tees, and big suede kicks in the 1980s and 1990s. Skateboard design now still favours a baggy silhouette, but with more flattering cuts, new colourways, and a very practical edge. These pieces are practical, comfy, and long-lasting, yet they have an unapologetically calm, laid-back appearance. Here’s how to incorporate crucial skate elements into your smart-casual and off-duty looks, whether you’re a kickflip king or a Nollie newbie.
Skater Apparel for Guys
Skate Tees
Real skaters never underestimate the power of a good tee. For example, loose fit skate t-shirt models made of thick, long-wearing materials is what skater apparel is all about. Cotton and flannel are the most preferred fabrics, although checks and stripes are also highly popular at the skatepark. You can combine a hooded over-shirt that will get you through the seasons in casual skater style, or layer a plaid flannel shirt over your favourite graphic tee.
Skate Hoodies
Another long-lasting skate staple is the hoodie, which is popular for providing cover for skaters who venture out of boundaries. Even if you haven’t been on a board in years, a hoodie is a great way to dip your toes into the skater trend for the less rebellious. For easy on-trend off-duty style, wear a pastel hoodie with baggy jeans, or pair a slate grey hoodie with tailored pants for a smart-casual weekend look.
Skater Pants & Shorts
Skaters have always preferred strong materials that give sturdy protection from knocks and falls, as well as casual fits that allow for lots of flexibility on the board. Today, these baggy designs and thicker materials fit in with the utility trend’s practical appearance. Thick twill chinos, cargo pants with cuffed hems, and oversized skater jeans are some of the most popular options. Choose stain-resistant colourways like khaki, black, or camo designs, and balance the baggy silhouette with a fitted skate t-shirt on top.
“I have enough shorts,” said no skater ever! On warm days, a pair of skater shorts offer the perfect blend of style and comfort. Choose a knee-length pair with a loose fit and plenty of functional pockets to nail the summer skater boy look. Cargo shorts will complement an oversized hoodie on top, or choose wide-cut chino shorts for a somewhat nicer style. Pair with your favourite skater’s sneakers and a graphic tee to keep your skater’s look from becoming too preppy.
Skate Accessories
Although beauty lies in the details, avoid overaccessorising, especially if you’re going to the skate park. A minimalist baseball cap is an easy way to lend an urban edge to a more professional look, and skaters frequently wear the wool beanie all year. Streetwear accessories such as sling bags, backpacks, and reflective or metallic belts complement the skater aesthetic, as does a traditional wallet chain for a 90s vintage vibe.
How to Dress like a Skater and Look Stylish
Opt for Relaxed Fit Clothing Pieces
Skater style has been adapted for those who will never step foot on a ramp, but the key to rocking this look is to keep your skate t-shirts free, and your trousers relaxed. Wide-leg cargos, baggy sweatshirts, and boxy graphic tees are skatewear staples. Mix bulky skate items with more fitted casualwear for a modern twist and a more balanced style. Layer a heavy hoodie over cropped pants, or pair a fitted top with baggy utility pants.
Enrich Your Outfit with Cargo & Utility Details
Today’s skater aesthetic combines skateboard culture with the best of hip-hop, utility, and grime movements to create a look that is both useful and casually cool. Cargo and utility trousers, in particular, have long been skater boys’ favourite apparel due to their high durability and large, functional pockets. Choose a loose fit and add some utility accessories, such as a cross-body or chest bag, clunky sneakers, or an industrial belt.
Graphics & Logos Are a Must
The graphic tee is one of the most noteworthy and long-lasting trends in skater fashion, and it goes wonderfully with the subculture’s emphasis on creativity and uniqueness. Choose a casual or looser fit that effortlessly links streetwear and skate wear, and don’t be afraid to experiment with big logos in bold fonts, classic fire-flamed colourways, and bold stripes. Layer it under an open overshirt or a loose hoodie when the weather dips.
Choose Footwear with Flat & Wide Soles
Skateboarding footwear is about function, durability, and determining what works best for you. Low-top trainers with a retro look and flat, broad bottoms offer the ideal combination of manly flair and athletic support. Besides Vans and Converse, which have been classic skater staples for decades, popular sports brands have collaborated with emerging skatewear companies, adding new technologies and modern colourways to the original skater silhouette.
These fashionable skateboarding essentials make skating more comfortable, stylish, and colourful. Make a statement with bright pink laces and hefty soles, or go for the traditional black Vans. Mix crew socks with roomy, cuffed leg pants to elevate your skate look!
Embellish Your Skate Look with a Cap & Sports Socks
Accessorize your skater outfit with some half-pipe-worthy items. Add a branded baseball cap or bucket hat to the top and white sports or tube socks to the bottom for an iconic skater boy style. While a black cap is a classic off-duty option, accessories are a terrific way to add colour to your look. A brightly coloured beanie may brighten up a monotone outfit, or contrasting socks can show off your favourite skater’s shoes.
