Skate Sneaker Book Club – Footwear Reads | Made For Skate

In the thrilling intersection of sneakers and skateboards, a rich tapestry of history unfolds beneath the grip tape. Join us as we delve into the pages of „Made For Skate: The Illustrated History of Skateboard Footwear,“ an iconic work celebrating its 10th anniversary with an eagerly awaited updated edition set to grace bookshelves in November 2019.

Unveiling the Skate Chronicles

Beyond the captivating historical facade of „Made For Skate,“ there lies a profound narrative that weaves together the intricate evolution of skateboarding footwear over the past 50 years. Penned by the skilled hands of German skate aficionados Daniel Schmid, Dirk Vogel, and Jurgen Blumlein, the book stands as a comprehensive compendium, providing an intimate look into the metamorphosis of skate shoes.

Footprints Through Time

Skateboarding, often reduced to its rebellious image, has a narrative etched in the rubber soles of skate shoes. Embark with us as we roll through five pivotal moments that have left indelible marks on the vibrant tapestry of skate footwear history.

# The First Kick: Randy 720 – 1965

In the mid-1960s, the skate landscape was forever altered by the entrance of the Randolph Rubber Company with the groundbreaking Randy 720. Featuring suede uppers, vulcanized soles, and the enigmatic ‚TUFF TOE’N HEEL‘ inserts made from the mysterious ‚Randyprene,‘ this innovative design laid the groundwork for the future of skate shoe evolution. Brands like Vans would later build upon this foundation, steering the course of skate footwear history.

The Randyprene, a material shrouded in mystery, became a talking point among skate enthusiasts. Its unique properties, coupled with the suede and vulcanized soles, not only contributed to the durability and boardfeel of the Randy 720 but also sparked a wave of experimentation in subsequent skate shoe designs.

# Skate-etball: Wilson Skateboard Shoes – Late 1970s

The tumultuous 1970s witnessed both the zenith and nadir of skateboarding’s popularity, partly attributed to the shoes on skateboarders‘ feet. Wilson, seizing the moment, adapted a basketball shoe for skateboarding, thriving during the boom but stumbling in the aftermath. Little did they know that this would serve as a precursor to the future, as basketball shoes would later reclaim their place in the skateboarding spotlight.

Wilson’s experiment with repurposing basketball shoes for skateboarding marked a turning point in the industry. The success during the boom and subsequent challenges post-collapse highlighted the symbiotic relationship between the popularity of skateboarding and the choice of footwear, a relationship that would continue to evolve over the decades.

# Air Beneath the Wings: Air Jordan 1 – 1985

A poignant snapshot frozen in time—a group shot of the iconic Bones Brigade during the filming of „The Search for Animal Chin“ in 1987. In this frame, a familiar silhouette emerges—the Air Jordan 1. The marriage of ankle-hugging durability and a flexible sole not only resonated on the basketball court but also found a harmonious rhythm on griptape. Skating legends like Steve Caballero and Lance Mountain found their roots in the Air Jordan 1, shaping the enduring bond between skate culture and sneaker culture.

The Air Jordan 1’s journey from the basketball court to the skateboard ramp became a cultural phenomenon. Its impact wasn’t just functional but resonated as a symbol of rebellion and individuality, influencing subsequent generations of skaters and sneaker enthusiasts alike.

# Globe-Trotting: Globe – 1994

Venturing across the oceans to Australia, we encounter the Hill brothers—Matt, Steven, and Peter—leaving an indelible mark in skate shoe history with Globe. With Rodney Mullen on board, functionality seamlessly intertwined with style, setting a new standard for skate shoes Down Under. From its modest beginnings in 1994, Globe International has burgeoned into a powerhouse, a testament to the global reach of skate culture.

The collaboration between Globe and Rodney Mullen added an extra layer of authenticity to their designs. Mullen’s influence on the functionality of skate shoes, combined with the Australian backdrop of surfing and skateboarding, resulted in a unique fusion that echoed across the global skate scene.

# Swoosh Renaissance: Nike SB – 2002

The late-90s witnessed Nike’s initial forays into skateboarding, but it was the year 2002 that marked the official liftoff of Nike SB under the sagacious guidance of Sandy Bodecker. The modified Dunk silhouette, bedecked with audacious colorways and wild themes, ignited a renaissance in sneaker collector culture. Whether this was a boon or bane to the skate scene remains debatable, but there’s no denying that Nike’s impact indelibly shaped the contemporary skate culture, echoing through the sport’s inclusion in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Nike SB’s resurrection of the Dunk silhouette became a canvas for artistic expression within the skateboarding community. The audacious colorways and thematic releases not only spoke to the vibrancy of skate culture but also contributed to a new era of sneaker collecting, blurring the lines between sportswear and high fashion.

Beyond the Pages

„Made For Skate“ transcends its status as a mere book; it’s a testament to the symbiotic relationship between skating and sneaker culture. Published by Gingko Press, this anthology encapsulates the very essence of a subculture that has organically transcended its grassroots origins.

As the much-anticipated 10th-anniversary edition prepares to hit the shelves, the journey through „Made For Skate“ transforms into a pilgrimage for enthusiasts, inviting them to traverse the well-trodden paths of skateboard history, one meticulously crafted page at a time.

Conclusion

In the meeting point of wood and pavement, where every ollie leaves an imprint and each kickflip tells a story, skate shoes emerge as the unsung heroes. „Made For Skate“ not only serves as a chronicle but as a celebration of these stories, reminding us that every scuff and tear narrates a chapter in the ongoing saga of sneakers and skateboards. Lace up, grab a copy, and embark on a journey into the concrete narratives that echo from the very sole of a skate shoe.