Expert Advice

Skater Style for Men and Women: Back in a Big Way

Jan 20, 2023

The ’90s have been back for a bit, and they’re better than ever. Before Y2K styles, which included bubble dresses, printed skinny jeans and peep-toe pumps, there was skater style. Noted for classic Vans, graffiti-inspired graphic tees, Converse Chuck Taylors and baggy jeans, skater fashion rooted its way into the scene via California surfers in the 1950s.

This fashion genre then transformed into a subculture revered by many streetwear enthusiasts and was also embraced by top industry names like Louis Vuitton. While skater outfits of the early ’90s trended toward oversized T-shirts and loose-fitting jeans, more contemporary fits exhibit style from a wide variety of influences. But one skater-era question still looms: Converse vs. Vans: Which is the best? Our Hibbett | City Gear experts have compiled some helpful information, so you can get your skater style on in whatever way your look requires.

He was a Skater Boi

It’s not hard for Hibbett | City Gear to do skater style, thanks to our variety of men’s skater fashion options that will have you looking pretty fly in no time:

man in camo pants and nike hoodie
  • Slip into a pair of men’s Smoke Rise jeans, and finish off your fit with a vibrant hoodie and some coordinating Chucks.
  • Throw on a Blac Leaf tee underneath a bomber jacket, some oversized denim and add a snapback hat.
  • Go men’s Vans from toe to head with a classic logo tee, baggy jeans and Vans Old Skool sneaks.

She’s Just a Girl

Who says skater style is just for boys? Not us! Anyone can rock this look, and Hibbett | City Gear can help with the threads, kicks and accessories:

women in pants and cropped hoodie
  • Let your skater style shine with high-rise jeans and a crop top. Don’t forget to add in some women’s Converse kicks. And if you’re feeling especially ’90s, don’t forget glittery lips and butterfly clips.
  • Match a colorful, oversized women’s jacket with a white tee and distressed baggy jeans. A pair of women’s classic Vans will be the cherry on top of this throwback skater fashion.
  • Pull on some nylon or polyester athletic shorts and a tie-dye tee. You can even add an open, button-up shirt and a bucket hat to accentuate your style.

Converse vs. Vans

So … in the battle of skater shoes, which is better? Chuck Taylors or Classic Vans? There’s no set answer. When it comes to skater outfits, both kicks are staples and also claim the top spot as some of the most versatile sneakers in the market. Both iconic footwear brands feature low and high-top options as well as comfortable slip-on styles. They also offer that classic, early-’90s vibe you need to nail your beloved skater style.

black Converse and Vans


So when you’re looking to land that vintage skater fashion, stop in a Hibbett | City Gear store or wander through our website. You can also check out our blog for helpful tips on how to lace your classic Vans kicks. Whether you’re looking for the perfect Chuck Taylors, distressed jeans or vibrant-colored top, we’ll have you looking phat in no time flat.

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