You must have seen them: young people skating with enthusiasm and glee as their skateboards or roller skates grind on the asphalt road. On a closer look, you’d see they dress alike, often, in baggy pants and large tees. Yes, that’s the starter pack of the skate community. And if you’re a newbie there, a seasoned boarder, or simply a lover of laidback fits, you’ll find trendy skater outfit ideas in this guide.
Keep reading as we dive in.
What is Skater Style?
Skater fashion, which was once considered counterculture, has become a critical part of today’s fashion. The subculture is deeply rooted in streetwear. It’s gained popularity for its blend of edge and style, often featuring versatile and loose-fitting pieces that allow freedom of movement.
As its name implies, this fashion style is an embodiment of skateboarding culture. However, it also draws inspiration from punk rebellion, hip hop, and the chill vibes of surfing.
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What Type of Clothes do Skaters Wear?
Skater clothing has evolved over the years. But several factors that go into picking them remain constant— durability, comfort, and toughness. Skateboarders often blend style with performance. Each piece must be functional enough to carry them skidding through the streets until they’ve had enough for the day. It’s why oversized fits are a major part of the aesthetic.
When the movement first emerged in the ‘50s, oversized clothing instinctively became the go-outfit for practicality, easy movement, comfort, and protection. This is highly needed in a hobby like skating. The frequent motion and falling need less restrictive clothing, little wonder skaters love to wear loose styles.
Similarly, sturdy fabrics like denim were ideal for coping with the many scrapes and skids on the ground. Along the line, ripped jeans became a trend, not deliberately, but from multiple falls while skating. As skate brands like Supreme, Vans, and Volcom gained popularity, other items also rose to prominence within the skateboarding community. Graphic tees and hoodies became another widely adopted look, with bold inscriptions often written on them.
As the skating subculture grew, these styles began to influence mainstream fashion. Today, the oversized skater aesthetic is popular outside the skateboarding world, with non-skaters rocking skater outfit ideas like never before.
Skater Outfit Ideas for Newbies & Seasoned Skateboarders
Wanna build a skater wardrobe? Start with these foundational pieces and scale up as you progress:
- Cargo pants
- Large (graphic) tees
- Hoodies
- Baggy jeans
- Sweatpants
- Jorts (jean shorts)
- Flannel shirts
- Beanies
- Boots
- Socks
- Leather jackets
- Skate sneakers
- Roller skater shoes
- Sunglasses
- Denim jackets
- Oversized sweater
- Bomber jackets
- Helmet (for safety)
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How to Dress Like a Skater
Loose-fitting logo tees, baggy jeans, and skate shoes have become the hallmarks of skater fashion. Below, we show you how to immerse yourself in the aesthetic and create skateboard outfit combos that suit you:
Start with the basics
A skater-style wardrobe typically includes basic items such as graphic tees, baggy jeans, sweatpants, hoodies, jorts, and tank tops. In summary, opt for relaxed fits that provide comfort and free movement.
Choose hardy fabrics
Skaters wear fabrics that can withstand abuse and harsh weather. Think khaki, jeans, chinos, corduroy, and chunky skate shoes. These materials ensure you move freely on the board while exuding an urban, laid-back vibe.
Wear skateboard shoes
Skate shoes are often made of hard-wearing materials to handle heavy wear and tear when skateboarding. They provide maximum grip to your feet as you move on the board while also enhancing your overall. Also, these shoes are built for performance, durability, weight, and comfort. A popular example is the Vans Sk8 Hi-Shoe, which has padded high tops that protect your exposed ankles.
Generally, skate shoes come in three different heights: Low-cut, mid, and high-top. Pair them with socks for extra cushioning around your ankles.
Wear colorful skater outfit ideas
Neutral colors like black, gray, olive, white, and brown are popular in the skater community. But this doesn’t mean pops of color aren’t welcome. So, feel free to play with bold or muted hues as you choose; anyone works.
Layer for style & extra protection
Layering is table stakes in skater fashion. Pair your tees with oversized jackets, flannel shirts, bomber jackets, or hoodies. They add a rugged touch and versatility to your outfit while protecting you from scratches when you fall.
Accessorize your skater outfit ideas
Keep your accessories simple but impactful. Think beanies, wristbands, sunglasses, snapback caps, bandanas, and backpacks. They’re practical and stylish choices that complete your look.
Try skater dresses & skirts
For a different take, wear skater skirts and dresses. Their flared, A-line silhouette will elongate your legs, giving you an illusion of an hourglass figure. Style them with denim jackets, sneakers, or even dress them up with blazers. But don’t wear them while skating lest you should bruise your skin if you fall.
Cuff your pants
While baggy trousers work well for movement, they may have extra length around the hem. This can be a problem when skating, especially if it gets in between your shoe and the board. Cuffing your pant legs by folding or rolling them up ensures no fabric interferes with your feet and the skateboard. Besides, it adds an extra edge to your look.
Personalize your skater outfit ideas
Own the look by adding your personal touch to it. For example, customize your own graphics tee with words that hold true meaning to you, wear multicolored socks, or add patches and pins to your clothes. This shows your individuality and allows you to stay creative.
Skater Outfit Ideas are Here to Stay
What do skaters wear? Clothing that lets them skate while looking stylish. Remember, comfortable, durable, functional, and laidback pieces are the formula. So when in doubt, keep things baggy and relaxed. This style prioritizes mobility and a laid-back, urban vibe. Never forget that.
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