Skateboarding is a wonderful pastime that can shared amongst parents and children. Finding a skate park to spend hours can be some of the best childhood memories one can have. However, making sure you have the proper safety gear is essential. This includes elbow and knee pads, helmets, and skate shoes. Locating the best skate shoes is important, as they are typically make from suede, leather, or synthetic materials. The higher the shoe runs up the ankle, the more protection one will have in that area if falls or spills are to occur. However, that reduces the flexibility and ability to perform top tricks. The lower the shoe runs, the less protection you can expect, but you'll be pull off some of the neatest tricks at the park. Many opt for the mid-cut version that helps give the best of both worlds. You can learn about this and more at http://www.bestskateshoesguide.com.