Streetwear style has been around since the 1970s, picking up different traits and adapting to different subcultures and countercultures. One of the styles that emerged through all of those transformations, developed within the skateboard community. Unlike athletes in other sports, skateboard clothing isn’t a required dress code, and skaters can wear whatever they feel comfortable in. Nevertheless, the style stuck in the community and beyond. And, while skater fashion style has never really left the scene, especially amongst skaters, with many things from the ‘90s fashion returning, skate clothing has gone somewhat mainstream, influencing urban styles, and becoming part of some incredible casual outfits. 

Skateboarding was, of course, developed in the ‘60s and ‘70s but it becomes popular on a global level in the ‘90s when this fashion style developed. Back then the style lived in the streets, with clothes that were practical, loose and comfortable, while also offering some protection during tricks and stunts, with a somewhat anti-system vibe. As skateboarding became more popular, many brands and designers accepted it and incorporated it into mainstream fashion.

So, regardless of whether you are a skateboarder, a BMX rider or a regular guy looking for a new cool look to add to their casual, skater fashion can give you garments that will elevate your style, giving it the vibe of freedom and excitement that characterise these activities. And with the versatile, practical, comfortable and good-looking outfits with t-shirts, loose shorts or pants, shoes, some accessories and so on, it’s not hard to add beautiful skate wear pieces to your wardrobe.

Shorts and Pants

In its essence, a skateboarder’s dressing style is simple, comfy and cool. One of the things that characterise it is skate shorts, which finish at the wearer’s knees. As a rule, the skater aesthetics requires loose and unrestrictive pants, so cargo shorts are one of the favourite options, with large pockets. However, if you are up for a smart casual skater outfit, you can go for something more modern, like chino shorts. 

When it comes to skating pants, cargo pants are also one of the favourites amongst skaters, as well as work pants. This is not only because of their comfort but also because of their durability. However, like with skate shorts, for a more modern look, you can go for chinos, which can offer similar aesthetics. Choose straight-leg pants that go a little bit above your ankles.

T-Shirts

T-shirts are a must for any casual style, but when it comes to skate wear, they are somewhat of a uniform. To wear t-shirts like a skater, you should choose a crew-neck cut and a longer t-shirt. The most common choice is graphic t-shirts, with a slogan, the brand name, a logo or an image, although you can also choose to wear a plain loose t-shirt. As a finishing touch, you can also layer the t-shirt with an open overshirt, like a flannel, a front open hoodie or a jacket. To add an extra skater touch, you can also wear a cool graphic loose t-shirt over a sweatshirt.

Hoodies and Sweatshirts

Another skate apparel essential, hoodies are a great way to ease in into this casual style. In fact, streetwear wouldn’t be the same without the hoodie. While they were first intended for athletes, hoodies are nowadays a common sight on the streets. For a skater look, you can combine them with cargo pants, chinos, looser shorts, or even jeans. You can even wear one under a coat in winter, or you can go for a zip-up with a hoodie over a t-shirt. Alternatively, you can also go for a sweatshirt. Like with t-shirts, skaters will often choose hoodies or sweatshirts with a print on the front.

Footwear

When you are on your skateboard or on your BMX bike, cruising, jumping, gliding, pulling all kinds of stunts, obviously you need comfortable and good quality shoes. As a matter of fact, skate shoes are in a sense a protective gear for skaters, which is why they are a must for them. And without a good pair of skate sneakers, you can’t really pull off a skater look. Of course, if you aren’t trying to look exactly like a skater, but rather incorporate parts of the style, you can also go for other types of casual shoes. That being said, a pair of good-quality skate shoes is always a good idea, because due to the fact that they were designed to be worn on skateboards, they are durable and reliable.

Accessories

The skater style needs a lot of accessorising as well. Most skaters combine their skate clothes and footwear with caps, beanies and other types of hats, sometimes even covered with the wide hood of their hoodie. If you are in for the most authentic look, you can also get a wallet chain. While they were designed to keep skaters’ wallets secure while they were doing their stunts, nowadays they mostly have a purely aesthetical purpose. Furthermore, when you are wearing skate shorts, you can pair them with tube socks.