Quick Take: ⭐ ~ 4.0/5 – The Numeric Tiago Lemos 808 is a pro skate shoe that blends retro ’90s styling with modern performance features. Its layered suede and mesh upper, reinforced in high‑wear areas, provides durability, while the NDurance rubber outsole offers strong grip and abrasion resistance.
The full-length ABZORB midsole with REVlite foam delivers balanced cushioning and impact protection, making it suitable for both street and park skating. Fit is secure, though slightly firm out of the box and becomes more comfortable after quite a few sessions. Overall, it’s a versatile, durable and stylish skate shoe for daily skating and casual wear.
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Overview:
Version: The Tiago Lemos 808 is the second pro model from skater Tiago Lemos under the NB Numeric line.
Price Range: Mid-tier skate shoe (Typically ranges between €90 and €110, making it a pro-level skate shoe that balances quality and affordability)
Fit: Offers a secure, locked-in fit with a slightly firm feel out of the box. Breaking it in is unlike some vulcanized models, the 808 is firm and slightly stiff out of the box, requiring a noticeable break-in period before the fit fully adapts. Slightly narrow for some users, but stable and supportive once worn.
Style: Retro-inspired ’90s skate silhouette with layered suede and mesh construction. Clean lines and subtle branding make it versatile for both on-board performance and casual street-wear.
Best For: Ideal for street and park skaters who want a durable, responsive shoe with modern cushioning. Also suitable for skaters looking for a stylish, everyday skate-lifestyle shoe that performs well during regular skating sessions.
Design & Aesthetics:
Materials: Constructed with a mix of durable suede and breathable mesh, the 808 reinforces high-wear areas for long-lasting performance. The full-length ABZORB midsole provides cushioning and impact protection, while the NDurance rubber outsole delivers excellent grip and durability under repeated skate use.
Colorways: Available in a variety of neutral and expressive color combinations, the 808 suits different style preferences. Options range from understated blacks and greys to bold accent designs, allowing skaters to match the shoe to both casual outfits and skate-specific gear.
Look & Feel: On foot, the 808 feels secure and stable. The reinforced heel and layered upper create a locked-in fit, while the firm construction conveys durability and board confidence. It’s substantial without being overly bulky, offering a balanced combination of protection, comfort, and skate performance.
Performance:
Board Feel: Offers a firm, stable feel underfoot. Its full-length cushioned mid-sole provides support for flips, landings, and park or street skating. It isn’t as “plugged-in” as thinner vulcanized shoes but trades some responsiveness for added protection. Skaters get a balanced combination of control and comfort once broken in.
Grip: The NDurance rubber out-sole delivers strong traction and consistent grip on the board. It maintains stability during flicks, ollies, and slides. The sole resists wear and abrasion while keeping contact with the deck secure. Overall, it’s reliable for street and park skating alike
Durability: Reinforced suede overlays and high-wear panels protect against grip-tape abrasion. The out-sole and lace system hold up well during repeated sessions. While extremely rugged, heavy, frequent skating may show minor wear over time. The shoe is built to last through multiple months of moderate use.
Duration:
Under regular skate use, the Tiago 808 typically lasts 3–5 months before noticeable wear appears.
Heavy daily skating may reduce lifespan to 2–3 months.
Its robust construction extends durability compared to lighter vulcanized shoes. Overall, it balances performance longevity with protection and support.
Impact Protection:
The 808 features a full-length cushioned mid-sole that effectively absorbs shock during jumps and landings, providing stronger protection than many thin vulcanized skate shoes. Reinforced heel padding and a supportive heel pod enhance stability and lock the foot in place. While it offers above-average protection for a skate shoe, the firmer sole slightly reduces board-feel compared to minimal or ultra-flexible models.
Overall, it balances safety and comfort, making it ideal for street and park skating.
For skaters seeking maximum cushioning and impact absorption, upgrading with a pair of Footprint Insoles is highly recommended, complementing the 808’s support while improving comfort during long sessions.
Explore the available fp insoles options on Amazon to find the best fit.
Comfort & Fit:
Break-in: The 808 feels firm and structured initially, requiring quite a few sessions to soften and adapt to the foot. Comfort improves as the upper and mid-sole flex with use.
Arch support: It features a pronounced arch and solid internal structure that stabilizes the foot and absorbs impact. Skaters with flatter or wider feet may find the arch feels firm at first.
Heel & padding: A well-padded heel cup and reinforced heel pod provide a secure, locked-in fit, enhancing stability during landings and tricks.
Breathability: The thick suede upper prioritizes durability, which limits airflow compared to lighter, mesh-heavy skate shoes. The shoe may feel warm during extended sessions but offers long-lasting protection.
| Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|
| Durable suede & NDurance outsole | Firm break-in period |
| Stable boardfeel & support | Moderate breathability |
| Secure heel & padded fit | Slightly narrow fit |
| Retro, versatile style | Less “plugged-in” board feel |
| ABZORB midsole absorbs impact | Shows wear under heavy use |