If you have any interest in skateboarding, streetwear, or trainers in general, you’ve seen the unmistakable DC logo. DC Shoes —sometimes seen as DC skate shoes or DC Trainers, have played a huge part in skateboardings history. They've pushed the limits of skate shoes since the 90's, with their innovation and video projects. But why have DC Trainers had a foothold in the skate shoe game for as long as they have?

Who Founded DC Shoes?

DC Shoes was founded in 1994 by Ken Block and Damon Way in Carlsbad, California. Both were immersed in action sports—Block was a skateboarder and entrepreneur, while Way had deep roots in the skate scene thanks to his brother - skateboarding legend Danny Way.

The company’s origins go back even further, to a clothing brand called Eightball, but when the founders saw a gap in the market for proper skate shoes, DC Shoes was born.

The “DC” originally stood for Droors Clothing, but as the brand exploded in popularity, it simply became DC Shoes, Inc. The goal was to create trainers and skate shoes that could actually withstand the punishment of modern skateboarding, while still looking fresh enough to turn heads on the street.

The Rise of DC Trainers: Changing the Game

In the mid-90s, skate shoes were mostly just rebranded sneakers. DC Trainers were part of the wave that changed all that. 

DC introduced technical features to their skate shoes like reinforced ollie areas, improved grip, and better cushioning—stuff that skaters actually needed. The brand’s focus on durability and performance made DC Trainers gain a cult following amongst skaters

But DC didn’t just rely on tech in their shoes. Their marketing was next-level. They were one of the first skate brands to heavily sponsor pro skaters and let them have a real say in shoe design. Early team riders included Danny Way, Colin McKay, and Rob Dyrdek—names that would help define skateboarding for a generation.

DC Trainers and their Skate Team: Legends on Board

DC’s skate team reads like a who’s-who of skateboarding royalty. Over the years, the team has included icons like:

• Danny Way: Legendary for his mega ramp stunts and that unforgettable jump over the Great Wall of China—wearing DC Trainers, of course.

• Colin McKay: One of the original team riders, with a style as smooth as his trick selection.

• Rob Dyrdek: From pro skater to TV personality, Dyrdek’s first signature shoe, the RD1, was a game-changer for DC and skate footwear as a whole.

• Josh Kalis: Known for his timeless style and influence on street skating, Kalis’s signature DC Trainers are still some of the most sought-after.

• Lucien Clarke, Jahmir Brown, John Shanahan, Will Marshall, Thaynan Costa, Kevin Bilyeu, Ish Cepeda: The new generation of DC’s skate team, keeping the legacy alive and pushing the shoes to their limits.

These riders didn’t just wear DC Trainers—they helped design them, with DC ensuring any pro style is what the skater wants.

The Technology Behind DC Trainers: Built for Skateboarding

What sets DC Trainers apart is their chunky shoe look —but it’s also the technology thats packed inside a pair. Here’s what makes them stand out:

1. Durability

DC Trainers are famous for their rugged construction. Reinforced toe caps, double and triple stitching, and abrasion-resistant materials mean these shoes can take a beating. Whether you’re learning kickflips or you do 50 kickflips were session, DC Trainers are built to last and will see you through session after session. One of my first ever pairs of DCs in the early 2000s seemed to last me forever, even when skating them day after day.

2. Cushioning and Comfort

Skateboarding is tough on your feet. DC was one of the first brands to introduce advanced cushioning in skate shoes, using EVA midsoles, Impact-I technology, and padded collars to keep your feet comfortable—a great advantage of a chunky skate shoe.

3. Grip and Board Feel

The outsole is one of DCs secret sauce ingredients. DC’s pill pattern tread offers serious grip, while both the vulcanised and cupsole constructions give skaters options for board feel versus impact protection. Whether you like to feel every bump or want a bit more support, there’s a DC Trainer for you.

4. Breathability and Fit

With mesh panels, perforations, and moisture-wicking linings, DC Trainers keep your feet cool and dry. The fit is dialled in for skateboarding—snug where you need it, with enough room for comfort and control.

5. Unilite Trainer Technology

DC’s Unilite Trainer is a standout in their lineup, designed for action sports athletes who need lightweight, supportive, and breathable shoes for training and skating alike. The Unilite midsole is all about reducing weight and increasing flexibility without sacrificing support4. Welded upper construction means fewer seams and hotspots, and strategically placed rubber gives you traction where you need it most.

DC Trainers come in a huge variety of styles, from classic silhouettes to modern tech runners. Some of the most iconic models include:

• Lynx OG: A 90s classic, instantly recognizable and still beloved by skaters and sneakerheads alike.

• Kalis: Josh Kalis’s signature shoe, known for its chunky style and unbeatable comfort.

• Manteca: A versatile, durable skate shoe that’s perfect for everyday wear.

• John Shanahan JS-1: A modern pro model blending retro flair with today’s tech.

• Lucien: Lucien Clarke’s signature line, pushing both style and performance.

DC is also known for killer collabs with artists, brands, and even other skaters, keeping things fresh and relevant for every new generation 5 .

The DC Trainers Aesthetic: From Skatepark to Street

Part of what makes DC Trainers so popular is their style. Drawing inspiration from late 90s and early 2000s athletic gear and hip-hop skate culture, DC’s bold designs, oversized logos, and chunky silhouettes have become iconic 5 . They’re just as at home with baggy jeans and a hoodie as they are with technical skate gear.

And it’s not just about looks. DC Trainers are designed so you can go from session to street without missing a beat. That’s why you’ll see them everywhere—from skateparks and city plazas to music videos and streetwear drops.

The Legacy and Future of DC Trainers

Since their launch, DC Trainers have helped shape skateboarding and action sports culture. The brand’s commitment to innovation, rider-driven design, and authentic skate roots have kept it at the top for over three decades. Even after being acquired by Quiksilver in 2004 and later becoming part of Authentic Brands Group, DC has stayed true to its mission: making shoes that skaters actually want to wear.

The passing of co-founder Ken Block in 2023 was a huge loss for the action sports world, but his legacy lives on every time someone laces up a pair of DC Trainers. The brand continues to evolve, adding new tech, new riders, and new styles—while always respecting the roots that made DC what it is today.

Why DC Trainers Should Be Your Next Pair

If you’re looking for skate shoes that deliver on performance, durability, and style, DC Trainers are a no-brainer. They’re designed by skaters, for skaters, and tested by some of the best in the game. Whether you’re hitting the skatepark, cruising the streets, or just want a pair of trainers that stand out, DC Trainers has you covered.

From the OG classics to the latest pro models, there’s a DC Trainer for every skater and every style. Check out our latest selection at The Vines Supply Co. and find out why DC Trainers are still at the heart of skate culture.

Shop the latest DC Trainers at The Vines Supply Co. and experience some of the best creps in the game for yourself.

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