Skate shoes (also called trainers, converse, retro trainers) are specially designed and produced to be used for skateboarding. Although many people who don't skate still choose to wear skate shoes as regular footwear, the skate shoe is designed in such a way to include specific features for use in skating. These features include a flat rubber or polyurethane sole, a leather or suede exterior and heavy-duty double/triple stitching.

Many features of the Skate Shoe are designed specifically to increase durability. The retro trainers often undergo harshness from the skateboard's grip tape when worn by skaters. As a result, skaters are continually needing new shoes. Attention to the type of material used (suede, leather, plastic undercoating) and the strategic placement of these materials (exterior, toe cap) help increase the life of retro trainers. Other features such as protectors and lace loops are created to keep laces from shredding by protecting the areas that come in contact with grip tape.

Other enhancement features include: double/triple stitching with much thicker threads to prevent tearing, a broader width in order to create added surface contact with the board, thicker tongues and sides for balance, and deeper patterns on the sole for added traction and grip.

In 1917, the world's first sneakers were produced. They had canvas tops (a Converse implementation) and rubber soles and were called Kids. They were unofficially called sneakers because the rubber soles made the shoes quiet and stealthy. With sneakers being used by athletes during training session and to compete in sporting events, these shoes started getting called "trainers". Later on to be known at retro trainers because of the period they became popular. During the following six decades companies like Nike, Adidas, Puma, Vans and Converse began to successfully produce sports shoes designed for sports such as basketball, running, football, tennis, and skateboarding.

Modern times have seen huge technological advances since the first canvas and rubber shoes were created. Improvements were made in the trainer shoe's comfort, cushioning, support, grip and breathability. Skateboarding trainers now offer excellent protection from impact-related injuries, and retro trainers have better support and stability to decrease ankle injuries, giving the skateboarder the confidence to try new moves and maneuvers.

Converses come in almost all colors. They have slightly different looks and color choices depending on whether they are men's or women's. The designs and looks also vary depending on what age group a particular converse is catering to. The largest demographic of stackers are teenagers. They tend to prefer the Converse skating shoes with the midrise or high rise ankle protection. As a matter of fact, these shoes have become so popular, that in middle and high schools across the United States skaters and non-skaters alike are seen sporting these particular shoes.

Skateboarding as a sport is also becoming more and more popular by the day. Community skateboarding parks are being built by cities all over the country; and youngsters are crowding to these parks in large numbers. As the sport gets even more popular, demand for stake shoes and trainers will only get higher. Upcoming years may also see new technological additions to skate shoes that offer the skater even more versatility and style as they take their skateboards for a spin.