Etnies

Etnies revealed at the Bright Tradeshow a mix of both very technical and classical models. Etnies has extended the Marana “Bloodline” with the introduction of a vulcanized Marana version, as well as an even more technical Marana model.

Emerica

After Emerica’s perpetual streak of releasing new models in the last two years, it was deemed time to facelift a model, or two. Righteously so, the Reynolds and the popular Bryan Herman Pro Model “G6” have been updated with a classic vulcanized sole. Thus, the Emerica collection has broadened even more and the #HigherQuality campaign starts this year in the next round.

HUF

HUF has outgrown the small shop in San Francisco for several years now and has earned their place in the skateboard universe with not only their clothes, but also their shoe collection. Last year, the team has expanded with the addition of Austyn Gillette and Dylan Rieder. Dylan is known for his extravagant shoe and clothing style, most notably after the release of his model with pre-HUF sponsor, Gravis. HUF was not afraid to back Dylan’s style and has helped design him another unconventional model. In addition, HUF showcased new colors for the already established shoe models and new additions to their clothing collection.

Vans

Vans had one of the largest booths and focused, like many other companies at Bright, on already established models for fall 2014. Our focuses were mainly on the Chima Pro and the recently released Gilbert Crocket Pro model. However, a new model that will be introduced this year will be the AV Classic, an Anthony van Engelen signature shoe. The model features a classic design with a lot of hidden technological attributes such as a Duracap element in the typical ollie-hole area.

DVS

DVS is fully back and that will continue in 2014. They were one of the few companies that presented several new models, including a new model for Chocolate Pro, Chico Brenes. Likewise, Torey Pudwill will get a shoe that comes with a Velcro closure which is aimed to protect the laces and also improve the stability.

Part 2 coming soon…

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Many models stood out in 2013, a complete list is hardly possible. Here are the first four from our personal top 8 in 2013 (no particular order).

Nike SB Project BA

The Nike SB Project BA is an outstanding model in 2013. Brain Anderson deserved to develop a shoe with Nike SB and he did a very good job. The model has innovative features like the Lunarlon sole, a running shoe inspired design and a great balance between cushioning/comfort and board feel. Try the Nike SB Project BA and be surprised how good it is.

Lakai Vincent

Vincent Alvarez has delivered one of the best parts in Pretty Sweet in 2012. This year it got honored by Lakai giving him his first pro model. Inspired by the OG Lakai Manchester the model comes as close as possible to the original form with a new design. Watch his Chocolate Skateboards introduction clip, get his shoe and go skate – you won’t regret it.

Vans Chima Pro

Since Chima Ferguson was always skating the Vans Authentics he is one of those guys that took model-loyalty to new levels: However, Vans managed this year to create a pro model for Chima that resembles the Authentic silhouette, but possesses its very own style and look. The review is online, read it and get yourself a pair of the Chima Pro for the summer.

adidas Busenitz ADV

Dennis Busenitz is one of these constants in this universe that helps us restore faith in the future of skateboarding. Adidas skateboarding and Dennis Busenitz have developed with the Busenitz Pro an outstanding model, and they managed to repeat it in 2013 with the Busenitz ADV. The Adidas Busenitz ADV keeps it simple and clean, but doesn’t lack originality. Watch his part in the “Diagonal” video, go out and skate the Busenitz ADV.

part 2 coming soon

The post weartested skate shoe recap 2013: part 1 appeared first on Weartested - detailed skate shoe reviews.

Without a doubt, there are certain pros that make you think of a specific team edition shoe and an era of skateboarding. Just think of Arto Saari and the éS Accel during the Flip „Sorry“ era. Or how about Leo Romero and the Emerica „Laced“ model? And don’t forget Brian Wenning and the DC „Lynx“. But when it comes down to creating a signature model that carries this spirit, things get tough: do we simply change 2 stitches and slap a guys name onto the shoe or attempt to persuade the rider to try something completely new? Chima Ferguson is one of those guys that took model-loyalty to new levels: seeing him without Vans Authentic in red, black or white canvas between his feet and board was rare. In fact it hardly ever happened. Still, Vans managed to create a pro model that resembles the Authentic silhouette, but possesses its very own style and look. Whether or not that means it functions well as a skate shoe is something that you will find out now.

Sizing

The Vans Chima Pro fits true to size.

Durability

Simple one-piece toecaps have become the standard nowadays, mostly due to the fact that they increase a shoe’s durability. Vans took this a step further by adding a soft synthetic layer between the toecap’s upper- and inner material which they termed „Duracap“.It increases the durability and ensures that Chima Ferguson’s favorite fabric, canvas, doesn´t live up to its notorious reputation for durability. The “Duracap” also improves the stability and shape of the toecap.

The canvas sidewalls in this test frayed pretty fast. However, thanks to the extended toecap this was not too much of a problem. The sole itself held up very well and proved to be quite durable. The thick extra layer in the front-foot area improves durability quite a lot, even if you are a kickflip-lover. The deep pattern of the sole is another big advantage; even with new griptape, no blown out spots were visible, ensuring the shoe’s long lasting grip.

Cushioning

The Chima Pro established a rather well balanced compromise between board feel and cushioning. Jumping down big stair sets might not be the best idea in these, but thanks to the new „Ultracush Lite“ insole the heel area offers adequate cushioning. However, as you can see in the cross-section, the insole lost most of its thickness and therefore cushioning after 10h of skating gradually decreased.

Shape

The Chima Pro sports a low silhouette, just like the Vans Authentic. The model is a lot more supportive and stable though. The toecap is not as pointy as one would expect. The wide outer sole and the grippy gum sole ensure a really good flick.

Boardfeel and grip

The thin construction of the sole provides great boardfeel and flexibility; it almost feels like you can actually „grab“ your board. This flexibility increases grip as well and so the Chima Pro is comparable to most Vans models. It feels exactly like you would expect with a vulcanized model, and even provides great durability, thanks to its deep threading.

Comfort and stability

The Chima Pro shines from the very first moment: its lighter than most other Vans models and the weight is hardly noticeable on your feet. The front-foot-area is a little wider than usual, but thanks to its low silhouette the shoe still fits snug and nice. This, however, cannot be said for the heel area. It is a bit too wide, even the suede inner lining could not fully make up for the extra space. Moreover, the inner material of the shoe was quite rough and rubbed the foot uncomfortably when skating. A positive attribute of the canvas material is that it kept its shape and hardly widened through the test, which means that its initial stability stayed the same.

Summary

The Chima Pro is a durable vulcanized shoe with a low profile, which excels in terms of boardfeel and grip. Small flaws regarding cushioning and comfort are equalized by the shoe’s weightlessness and the great Duracap toe piece.

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Check out the Vans Chima Pro at ARROW&BEAST

ARROW&BEAST Vans Chima Pro

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