Did you know that rollerblading sales have increased by about 300% since March 2020? Most people found that rollerblading was a great way to cope with the lockdown during the pandemic.
This makes perfect sense, given that rollerblading is a fun and exciting way to get some exercise and release tension.
However, buying rollerblades is unlike buying a pair of shoes. You can’t just waltz into the store and buy the first pair of rollerblades that catch your eye. There are tons of factors you need to consider before buying the perfect pair of inline skates.
If you’re in the market for a pair of new rollerblades, then this post is for you. In today’s post, we’ll be highlighting a couple of factors you need to consider when buying rollerskates. That way, you can find the best pair for your budget.
Without wasting too much time, let’s dive straight into it.
Types of Rollerblades
It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the different types of rollerblades before hitting the market. This will help you make a more informed choice. The most popular types of rollerblades include:
- Fitness skates: These rollerblades are for people who want to use them to get fit and healthier. They’re usually the most affordable type of rollerblade. Not to be confused with cheapskates, which are not a type of rollerblade.
- Freestyle skates: As the name suggests, freestyle skates are for people who want to use them for tricks and stunts.
- Recreational skates: Recreational rollerblades are designed for people who want to skate for leisure. They’re a great option if you want to enjoy rollerblading without worrying about speed and performance.
- Speed skates: Speed rollerblades, a.k.a. racing skates, are designed for people who want to go fast. They’re not the best option for beginners since they require more skill to control.
Factors to Consider When Buying Roller Skates
There are tons of rollerblade options for your consideration. Here are a couple of factors to consider when buying roller skates to get the right pair.
The Wheel Size
Typically, with roller skates, the larger the wheels, the faster you’ll be able to go. However, large wheels also make it harder to turn and stop. That’s why they’re not the best option for beginners.
On the other hand, the smaller the wheels, the slower you can go. But, you’ll have more control over your rollerblades, making it easier to turn and stop. If you’re a beginner, then we recommend getting rollerblades with smaller wheels.
You can also find roller skates with adjustable wheel sizes. These are great if you want the best of both worlds or plan on sharing your roller skates with someone else.
The Bearings
The bearings are what connect the wheels to the rollerblades. They also affect how fast your roller skates can go. The higher the bearing number, the faster your roller skates will be.
For example, if you see a pair of rollerblades with ABEC-11 bearings, that means they can reach speeds of up to 31 mph. However, roller skates with lower bearing numbers can only reach speeds of up to 15 mph.
Keep in mind that the higher the bearing number, the more expensive the roller skates will be. So, if you’re on a budget, then we recommend getting rollerblades with lower bearings. You can always upgrade later on.
The Wheel Durometer
The wheel durometer is the hardness of the rollerblade wheels. It’s measured on a scale of A to Z, with A being the softest and Z being the hardest.
Softer wheels are great for beginners since they’re easier to control. Harder wheels are better for experienced rollerbladers because they can go faster. However, they’re also harder to control, making them only suitable for seasoned skaters.
The Rollerblade Size
Roller skates that are either too big or too small can be uncomfortable and dangerous. That’s why it’s important to get roller skates that fit you properly.
To find the right size, stand up straight with your feet together. Next, measure the distance from your heel to your longest toe. Once you have that number, refer to the rollerblade size chart to find the right rollerblade size for you.
If you’re between sizes, we recommend going up a size. You can always add an insole or padding to make them fit better. Roller skates that are too small are super uncomfortable and can hurt your feet.
The Frame
The rollerblade frame is what holds the wheels in place. It’s usually made of aluminum, a strong and lightweight material.
Some rollerblades have two frames, while others have three or four. The more frames there are, the more support and stability you’ll have. However, they’re also heavier and more expensive.
If you’re a beginner, we recommend getting rollerblades with three or four frames. As you get better, you can move down to two frames. The best inline skates & rollerblades typically have three or four frames.
The Brake
Most roller skates come with a brake on the back right wheel. However, some roller skaters prefer not to use the brake and instead use their toes to slow down or stop.
Beginners should use the brake since it’s easier and safer. Once you learn the ropes of roller skating, you can experiment with braking with your toe.
Make sure you buy roller skates with easy-to-use brakes. You don’t want a brake that’s difficult to engage or disengage. The last thing you want is to be flying with your rollerblades but be unable to stop them.
The Buckles and Laces
The buckles and laces on roller skates help keep your feet secure. They also make it easier to put on and take off your rollerblades.
Most roller skaters prefer laces since they provide a more snug and comfortable fit. However, buckles are much easier to use. For beginners, we recommend getting rollerblades with both laces and buckles. That way, you can experiment and see which one you prefer.
Only the Best Will Do
If you’re serious about your skating, you can’t afford to go hit-or-miss with your rollerblades. The information above will help you get the best roller skates for your budget. Just be sure to get them from a reputable vendor for high-quality rollerblades.
For more informative content, check out the other posts on the site.