This is slightly chunkier than a lot of the plimsole-type shoes on the shelves at the mo' but with it's minimalist look, the Match is a world away from the ravey moon boots DC were knocking out a few years back. It skates brilliantly out of the box, thanks to the flexy vulcanised sole and supple Super Suede outer. It's also got a Performance Wrap Cup that helps you minimise heel bruising when you bail a trick. After four fairly tough skates, the only real scuffing was on the DC logo, which you can easily tidy up with a bit of strategic cigarette lighter use.
PRICE : £60
With a narrower profile and even more paired down look than the DC Match, the plimsoley Griz is about as on trend a skate shoe as you could hope to find. It's the pro model of US ripper Emanuel Guzman who, as well as attacking seriously big trannies (transitions, not transsexuals), likes to throw ninja-style flips down massive fights of stairs. So, as you'd expect, this shoe is a bit of an all-rounder on the tech front. The C1rca herringbone outsole provides excellent board control when you're pulling lip tricks on ramps and the Aerocush midsole cushions your foot when you have to run out of a gap jump that's gone awry.
PRICE : £60
The understated design of the Effect is a departure from the over-sized, massive-tongued and crazy-coloured shoes typically associated with Osiris - and we like it. Thick, grey canvas is used throughout, giving a smart, clean look while also providing decent protection from grip-tape friction caused by ollies and flip-tricks. Scuffs soon appear and stitches instantly fray, but beyond cosmetic damage the Effect’s durable outer can take a lot of punishment. The ankle and heel protection looks like extra flaps bolted on to a low-top shoe but this design proves useful as it offers all the padding and support you’ll need without restricting movement in the slightest
PRICE : £60
At first glance Andrew Allen’s latest pro model looks more suited to lounging on the beach than skateboarding. Turns out the Stage 4 is actually surprisingly functional thanks to its low weight, slim shape and vulcanised sole. The soft, springy sole uses the brand's Wafflecup technology to absorb the shock of heavy drops and primo landings while the shoe's overall minimalism equates to excellent board feel and control. Don’t get too attached to the casual beach look though - the shoe’s navy suede material isn’t that durable and will quickly take a grip-tape battering, losing its crisp appearance.
PRICE : £60
