Blasted through my Vans learning how to ollie yesterday, so today I bought myself a new pair of shoes. I've owned skate shoes forever, Vans and chucks have always fit my wide feet well. I wanted to try some Emericas but every pair I tried was too narrow in the toe box for my big ass gorilla feet. I ended up settling on the Etnies Joslins. I haven't skated in them yet, but I really like how grippy the Michelin soles are just standing on my board, and they're really comfortable. Probably the most money I've ever spent on shoes; I hope they last a while. If not, trick tape here I come!
I also picked up a set of 52mm Bones STF V1s and a Bones bearing tool - highly recommended! Made removing and installing bearings so easy.