The Benefits of Skate Shoes with Grind Plates for Skateboard Tricks

The Benefits of Shoes with Grind Plates

Skateboarding has exploded in popularity in recent years. What started as a niche hobby has now become a mainstream sport embraced by people of all ages. And with the rise of skateboarding comes innovations in skate shoe technology. One such innovation that has changed the skating game is the addition of grind plates to skate shoes.

Grind plates are areas on the bottom of skate shoes that are reinforced with a thin layer of durable plastic. They allow skaters to smoothly slide or "grind" along edges, rails, and other surfaces. Grind plates drastically improve board control and grinding ability. Their development has enabled skaters to perform tricks that were previously very challenging or impossible.

In this article, we'll take a deep dive into shoes with grind plates. We'll explore what grind plates are, their benefits, considerations when choosing grind shoes, and recommendations for some of the top models on the market.

What Are Grind Plates?

Grind plates, also called slide plates, are hardened pieces of plastic affixed to the bottom of skate shoes. They are located in high abrasion areas under the ball of the foot and heel. This strategic reinforcement allows skaters to grind smoothly across metal coping, concrete ledges, rails, and other surfaces.

The grind plates are flush with the rubber outsole and form a smooth, slippery surface. This minimizes friction and prevents the shoes from getting caught or stuck during grinds. The plates are extremely durable and hold up well to repeated grinding without wearing down quickly.

Grind plates are usually made from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or carbon fiber. TPU offers an excellent balance of abrasion resistance, flexibility, and grip. Carbon fiber grind plates are even more rigid and durable, providing unrivaled slide ability.

Benefits of Shoes with Grind Plates

Wearing shoes equipped with grind plates provides skaters with many advantages:

Enhanced Board Control

The slick grinding surface gives skaters more control over their board during grinds. The plates minimize friction, allowing the board to glide smoothly instead of sticking. This responsive slide lets skaters make adjustments and extend grinds more easily.

Increased Grinding Ability

Grind plates greatly expand the types of tricks skaters can perform. Without them, certain grinds like noseblunt slides, feeble grinds, and 5-0 grinds would be extremely difficult if not impossible. The plates provide the ideal slippery surface needed to lock into grinds.

Durability

Quality grind plates stand up to repeated grinding without wearing down quickly. Skaters can land hundreds of grinds before the plates show signs of abrasion. This saves skaters money because the shoes last longer before needing to be replaced.

Protection

The plates shield the bottom of the shoes from damage during falls and bail outs. Instead of the suede or fabric getting shredded and ruined, the abrasion resistant plates take the brunt of the impact.

Grip

Contrary to popular belief, grind plates don't negatively affect grip and board feel. While the plates themselves are slippery, shoes with plates still have regular rubber tread in other areas for gripping the board. The plates only engage when grinding.

Choosing the Best Grind Shoes

If you're in the market for grind shoes, there are several factors to consider:

Plate Material

TPU and carbon fiber are the most common grind plate materials. TPU is a versatile option suitable for most skaters. Carbon fiber is extra rigid and durable, ideal for advanced street skaters. Some shoes also use ABS plastic or nylon plates.

Plate Location

Plates should be positioned under the ball of your foot and heel since these make contact with the ground during grinds. Make sure the plates cover the main abrasion points but don't restrict flexibility.

Outsole Tread

The outsole rubber surrounding the plates should provide adequate grip and boardfeel. Look for tiresome-inspired tread or waffle patterns.

Upper Material

The upper area needs to provide protection and support during tricks. Leather, suede, and abrasion-resistant synthetic materials work well. Mesh inserts add breathability.

Comfort

Comfort is critical for skating. Prioritize shoes with cushioned midsoles, padded collars, and removable insoles to absorb impact and prevent blisters.

Fit

Grind shoes should fit snugly without restricting movement. Make sure to try shoes on and test flexibility before buying.

Aesthetic

Skate style is important, so choose shoes that reflect your personal taste and aesthetics.

Price

Plate-equipped skate shoes range from around $50 to $150. New skaters can find quality shoes under $100, while pro models use premium materials and constructions.

Reviews of the Best Grind Shoes

Nike SB Janoski RM

Nike's iconic Janoski model gets upgraded with a textured TPU medial slide plate. The responsive plate handles grinds and abrasion with ease while the deep siping enhances traction. Suede upper provides flexibility and durability. Zoom Air unit cushions landings. An excellent all-around skate shoe.

Adidas Busenitz Pro

Legendary pro model revamped with geometrical slide plates. The molded TPU plates lock into grinds without adding bulk. Durable suede upper reinforced in high-wear zones. Lightweight EVA midsole absorbs shock. Low-profile rubber outsole grips the board. Superior response and protection.

Etnies Marana

Built for technical skating, the Marana has an internal nylon shank and hidden carbon fiber mid-plate. Outsole tread inspired by motorcycle tires for grip. Reinforced ollie areas resist wear from flip tricks. Plush collar and tongue lining add comfort. Arguably the most durable cupsole skate shoe.

DC Lynx Vulc

Versatile vulcanized skate shoe ideal for street and park sessions. Full-length foam midsole absorbs impacts while padded tongue and collar boost comfort. Textured vector logo sidewalls supply subtle grip. Abrasion-resistant sticky rubber outsole. Great value for the quality.

S Scheme SL

Designed for technical ledge and rail skating. Full-length STI foam midsole cushioning provides responsive boardfeel. Slip-resistant gum rubber outsole. Molded TPR slide plates under the ball and heel facilitate controlled grinds. Internally reinforced in the ollie areas.

Huf Dylan Slip-On

Premium leather upper modeled after classic boat shoes. Elastic gore side panels allow easy slip-on access. Herringbone tread rubber outsole for grip. Integrated suede/TPR grind pads under the front foot and heel. Cushioned PU sockliner. Sophisticated stylish look.

Osiris D3

The D3's claim "skate everything" with an aggressive TPU wrap cupsole equipped with sidewall grip and heel stabilizer. Combination lacing system for customized lockdown. Shock-absorbing PU insole. Large flat slide plates made of PU/TPR allow effortless grinds.

Caring for Your Grind Plates

To maximize the lifespan of your grind plates, follow these maintenance tips:

• Inspect plates after each session. Use Shoe Goo to patch any chips/cracks.
• Clean plates regularly with water and mild soap to prevent dirt buildup.
• Replace shoes once plates become excessively worn and no longer slide smoothly.
• Consider using wax to reduce friction and restore slickness when plates start feeling "dry."
• Apply thin strips

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.