While some people discount the unique shape of skate shoes as a fashion trend, in fact the shape is based on scientific evidence.  Skateboard shoes are known for their wide and flat bottom surface, and at a glance, the shoes just seem like a wider version of a standard tennis shoe.  But the reason for the wide and flat bottom is to increase friction on the skateboard, and thus increase control and reduce the risk of falling off.  While most people would disagree, the stronger person doesn’t win all the time in a competition of tug-a-war.  The person with the bigger feet wins because the soles of their shoes use the ground to provide friction and added resistance.  The person with smaller feet doesn’t receive near the same amount of support from the ground. 

Skate shoes use the same concept to provide added control for the skater.  With the wide and flat surface of the skate shoes, more friction is generated between the board and the skateboarder’s feet, which makes it more difficult to fall off and easier to make small corrections provided the feet are planted.  For beginners especially, skateboard shoes are a must!