Wallen Michelin vs Serin: Grip and Durability Compared
By etnies Official Store | Skate Shoes by Skateboarders since 1986 | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Wallen Michelin and Serin skate shoes on grip, durability, and board feel. Find out which low-top shoe matches your skating style.
Quick answer
Choose the Wallen Michelin for maximum outsole durability and a vulcanized board feel, or the Serin for high-impact protection and a locked-in cupsole fit.
Vulcanized vs Cupsole: The Core Difference
The Wallen Michelin uses a vulcanized construction, which gives you a thinner, more flexible sole for better board feel and a lower profile. The Serin is a cupsole design, meaning the sole is molded and glued to the upper, offering more impact absorption and stability at the cost of some sensitivity.
This fundamental difference affects everything from grip to durability. Vulcanized shoes like the Wallen Michelin wear faster on the outsole but are easier to break in and offer a more connected feel. Cupsoles like the Serin last longer in the upper and midsole but can feel stiffer initially.
Michelin Outsole Performance
Both shoes feature a Michelin Performance rubber outsole, but the Wallen Michelin is specifically noted as three times more durable than standard rubber. The Serin also benefits from Michelin rubber, but its cupsole construction changes how the tread contacts the board.
The Wallen Michelin's hidden rubber toe cap extends into the ollie area, directly protecting the high-wear zone. The Serin uses a hidden rubber toe cap as well, but its Force Shield underlays add extra reinforcement to the upper, which helps prevent blowouts in a different way.
Wallen Michelin vs Serin: Trade-offs at a Glance
- Board feel: The Wallen Michelin's vulcanized sole gives you more direct board feel and sensitivity. The Serin's cupsole is more insulated but offers better impact protection.
- Outsole durability: The Wallen Michelin's Michelin Performance outsole is rated three times more durable than standard rubber, making it the clear winner for tread longevity. The Serin's Michelin outsole is still durable but may wear faster due to the cupsole's thicker profile.
- Upper protection: The Serin has Force Shield underlays and a hidden rubber toe cap, providing more upper reinforcement against blowouts. The Wallen Michelin also has a hidden toe cap but relies more on the suede/synthetic upper for durability. If you tend to rip through the upper before the sole wears out, the Serin may last longer.
- Impact absorption: The Serin uses a STI Performance Level 1 insole and a cupsole construction, offering better impact absorption for high-impact landings. The Wallen Michelin uses Pro Foam 1 insole, which is comfortable but less protective on hard landings.
- Break-in time: The Wallen Michelin's vulcanized construction breaks in quickly and molds to your foot. The Serin's cupsole is stiffer and requires a longer break-in period.
Product facts
- Wallen Michelin: The Wallen Michelin features a Michelin Performance rubber outsole that is three times more durable than standard rubber. This means the tread will last significantly longer before wearing smooth, especially on rough surfaces.
Wallen Michelin - Serin: The Serin is a cupsole design with a reinforced upper using Force Shield underlays and a hidden rubber toe cap. The reinforced upper helps prevent tear-through at stress points, making the shoe more resistant to blowouts during heavy flicking.
Serin
Which one should you choose?
Best for
- Skaters who prioritize board feel and want a durable vulcanized outsole (Wallen Michelin)
- Skaters who land hard and need maximum impact protection and upper reinforcement (Serin)
Not ideal for
- Skaters who want a thin, flexible sole and quick break-in (choose Wallen Michelin over Serin)
- Skaters who need extra upper protection against blowouts (choose Serin over Wallen Michelin)
