Durable, affordable, comfortable beginner’s skate
Picture yourself, fresh at the skate park, the pavement calling your name, and your eyes set on mastering that elusive kickflip. You need a pair of shoes that won’t wimp out after the first grind, shoes that feel like an extension of your feet the moment you slip them on. Enter the Nike SB Malor.
When Nike first dipped its toes into skateboarding, purists scoffed. How could a brand synonymous with basketball and running possibly understand the grit and grime of skate culture? But they had a trick up their sleeve: Sandy Bodecker. With his touch, the SB line took off, carving its niche in the skateboarding world and even capturing the hearts of sneakerheads.
The SB Malor is the latest in this storied line, a shoe crafted with the beginner skater in mind. It’s built to take a beating – and then some. The canvas base is cloaked in a layer of suede, creating a fortress around your foot. This isn’t just about looking good (though it does, available in sleek black, clean white, and a stylish white/gray/green combo); it’s about surviving the relentless abuse dished out by hours of practice.
The magic lies in its construction. The vulcanized build means the sole is fused to the upper, giving you a broken-in feel right out of the box. You’ll be ready to ollie and grind without that awkward, stiff phase. The rubber outsole, with its herringbone design borrowed from the legendary Air Force 1, offers a grip that’s second to none while still allowing the freedom you need to pull off your moves. And let’s not forget the extended toe bumper – a small but mighty feature that adds extra durability right where it’s needed most.
Padding is strategically placed around the tongue and collar, cushioning your feet against the repeated impacts of skating. At just $75, these shoes offer a blend of affordability and quality that’s rare in today’s market.
For the entry-level skater, the SB Malor is more than just a shoe; it’s a partner in your journey, ready to face the inevitable scuffs and scrapes as you hone your skills. It’s a testament to Nike’s understanding that sometimes, you need gear that’s tough enough to handle your dreams without emptying your wallet. So, lace up, hit the park, and let the SB Malor take the hits, because these shoes were made to get shredded.
Pros:
- Durability: The combination of a canvas base with a layer of suede creates a highly durable shoe that can withstand the wear and tear of frequent skating.
- Vulcanized Construction: This fuses the sole to the upper, providing a flexible, broken-in feel from the first use, which is ideal for skaters who need immediate comfort and performance.
- Grip and Movement: The rubber outsole with a herringbone design and elements borrowed from the Air Force 1 enhances both grip and movement, crucial for executing tricks.
- Affordability: Priced at just $75, the SB Malor offers great value for money, making it accessible to entry-level skaters.
- Padding: The cushioned tongue and collar provide additional comfort and protection during skating sessions.
- Extended Toe Bumper: Adds extra durability in a high-wear area, prolonging the life of the shoe.
Cons:
- Minimalist Design: While attractive to some, the minimalist design may not appeal to skaters looking for more flashy or unique aesthetics.
- Entry-Level Focus: Designed primarily for beginners, advanced skaters might find the features and performance not up to par with higher-end models.
- Limited Colorways: With only three initial color options (black, white, and white/gray/green), those looking for a wider variety might be disappointed.
- Brand Perception: Despite Nike’s established presence in skateboarding now, some traditionalists might still prefer brands that are solely dedicated to skate culture.
$75
