It seems that the 90s fashion trends are back and are here to stay. And if you're a skater, you already know that the 90s were the best decade for this sport, at least when it comes to fashion. It was back then when skating became popular, and to this day, people stick to that skater style. From oversized hoodies to T-shirts and bulky shoes, these clothes made skating easier, and more comfortable and showed that necessary rebellious note.
You don't have to be a skater to own at least one streetwear T shirt with a graphic print or logo. If you're a skater, you're probably enriching your wardrobe, so of course, besides your skateboard, you need suitable clothes. Let's see what are the basic items that should help you move around freely.
What’s Skater Style?
Skateboarding came to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, and while the sport was developing, the style of skaters developed as well. But, it wasn't until the 1990s that skating changed from a niche sport to a global phenomenon. During that decade the world adopted both the sport and the fashion it brought.
The style is practical and comfortable; it's all about functional and loose clothes that will give the skater mobility without any pressure. And the great thing is that you don't have to be a skater at all to incorporate this style. All those graphic T-shirts, baggy pants, shorts and hoodies are a great choice for urban street fashion for laidback occasions.
What Do Skaters Wear?
Skaters wear baggy clothes for comfort, easy movement and protection. This sport demands lots of movement and baggy clothing is less limiting than tighter fits. Skateboarding also includes frequent falling, so the clothes should offer protection when a skater falls down. In the beginning, clothes were chosen because of fashion or style, but rather for comfort and practicality. The thicker fabrics did an excellent job while dealing with the many scrapes and skids along the ground.
Skaters' clothes are durable because they have to withstand all the wear and tear. The baggy shirts and hoodies are comfy and won't limit any movement. A streetwear T-shirt is usually made from thicker fabrics, so it can handle impacts and friction on the ground.
The hardwearing pants and shorts are straight-leg cut rather than skinny, so you get unlimited movements. The shoes are specially designed for traction and durability; traction is essential for controlling the skateboard and is done with minimal tread and a wide sole that takes a large surface area.
Graphic T-Shirts
Graphic streetwear T-shirts are an essential element of the skater style and a great way to achieve that look. You don't have to be a skater to wear one of course. These are comfortable because they're baggy, but also because they're made of soft fabrics such as cotton. When choosing yours, go for loose and oversized designs decorated with a brand logo, name, image, or slogan to get that skater aesthetic. One thing to consider is to choose crew-neck cuts to keep an authentic skate style. Feel free to layer your graphic tee for a cool throwback look by pairing your T-shirt with an open overshirt.
Skate Pants
These pants will probably be one of the most comfortable pants you've ever worn. Loose, comfy and easy to move in, these pants will soon become your favourite. If you're a beginner, you'll see how easy it is to move around with them (not only when you're on your skate). To wear a pair like a skater, just go for a cropped, wide-leg design or cuff a straight-leg style to a couple of centimetres above your ankles.
Skate Shorts
Naturally, you'll need a pair of skate shorts as well, especially for hot summer days and nights. These will help you stay cool and stylish. Thanks to their unrestrictive design, the shorts are a favourite piece of clothing for skaters. Choose a pair that finishes at your knees and has a loose fit. If you're into a more casual look go for cargo shorts with pockets and match them with an oversized T-shirt and skate shoes. If you need something smarter and more trendy, get chino shorts.
Hoodies
Hoodies are a skate staple and a great choice of clothing when you need a little warmth. Soft, comfy and easy to wear, a hoodie is a must if you're maintaining that skater look. You can pair them with just any pants including jeans, sweatpants, shorts, cargo pants, you name it. In winter, you can wear a jacket on top of your hoodie. Great for both guys and girls, skate hoodies are a warmer version of the T-shirt; choose a hoodie with a large graphic print (logos, brand name, slogan, etc.).
Accessories
And finally, you can choose some accessories that will complete your style. For that iconic skate look, start with a wallet chain. Nothing screams 90s skater look more than this. These chains were designed to secure wallets during the ollies and 360s, but they also did their job to maintain that rebellious style. Besides the chain, go for tube socks along with a logo cap and a backpack. If you truly want to embrace the 90s, don't forget to get a bum bag and bucket hat.
