Comprehensive Guide to Buying Roller Skates

Considering taking up roller skating or searching for a fresh pair of roller skates?

This informative guide will aid you in identifying the ideal roller skates to suit your requirements. Whether you are looking for skates for the skatepark, roller dancing, rhythm skating, or as a form of exercise, we will guide you through the key aspects to contemplate prior to making your purchase.

Determining the Right Size for Roller Skates

Commence your search for the ideal roller skate size by measuring the length of your feet. Next, consult the size guide provided on the product's page you are interested in. Generally, it's often advisable to select one size larger than your usual shoe size, but remember that sizing can differ between brands and models, so always verify with the size guide relevant to the specific skate.

To achieve the optimal fit, your skates should be comfortable—neither excessively tight nor overly loose. A snug fit is essential for maintaining control during skating. Additionally, you can adjust the fit with the laces: if your feet are wider, loosening the laces can help fit your foot shape. On the contrary, tighten the laces for a narrower fit, or consider incorporating an insole or wearing thicker socks for additional stability within the skate boots.

Selecting the Appropriate Type of Roller Skate Boots

Choosing the proper roller skate boots is integral to ensuring comfort and performance. The perfect skates for you will be those that offer the most comfort, and the boot type is a crucial factor in this. Should you be purchasing skates online without the opportunity to try them on, consider these features for making the best selection:

  • Padding: Select skates with ample padding around the ankle. A well-padded boot with a sturdy tongue (the piece beneath the laces) allows for extended skating with superior comfort.
  • Stiffness: The boot's stiffness is vital depending on your skating style. A firmer boot is excellent for skatepark or long-distance skating offering better ankle protection, power transfer, and less fatigue. For dance or slalom skating, a slightly softer boot offers more freedom of movement. Details about stiffness can be found in the product's specifications at SkatePro.
  • Cut: The boot's cut is significant too. High- or mid-cut boots work well for aggressive or long-distance skating by providing additional ankle support and protection. For jam skating, a low-cut boot tends to be more appropriate, though many skaters prefer a high-cut boot with the top loops of the lacing undone for increased ankle flexibility.
  • Heel: Roller skates can have either a high or low heel, similar to artistic skating boots or sneakers respectively. Which is preferable depends on personal choice. High heels lower the risk of falling backwards, whilst low heels grant a natural foot position and lower centre of gravity, aiding balance. Many base their choice on aesthetics, a key aspect in roller skating. Trust your preferences or try both styles to determine which fits best.

Roller Skate Plates and Trucks Overview

Roller skate plates and trucks form the fundamental components beneath the boots. The plate fastens directly to the boot, while the trucks, the metal axles, attach to the plate holding the wheels in place. Together, they govern the skates' movement and responsiveness.

In our vast assortment of roller skates, you'll discover models with plates made of various materials:

  • Nylon Plates: These are lightweight and suitable for novices. They offer easy mobility, though they might be less durable than other materials. While nylon plates suffice for beginners, ensure you check the weight limits outlined in the product details.
  • Aluminium Plates: Noted for their robustness and longevity, these are heavier but deliver enhanced performance suitable for advanced skaters or those with a larger build, providing greater stability and durability.
  • Fibreglass Plates: Offering an equilibrium of weight and strength, fibreglass plates are lighter than aluminium yet more resilient than nylon, making them a fantastic choice for those seeking performance without extra weight.

Regarding roller skate trucks, beginners typically need not focus too intensely on this part. Entry-level skates come with standard trucks, while aggressive skates, aimed at skatepark use, possess larger trucks for improved performance.

Selecting Roller Skates with Suitable Wheels

The wheels are pivotal in influencing your skates' performance on different surfaces. Consider where and how you intend to skate when picking wheels:

  • Outdoor Skating (Soft Wheels): For outdoor cruising, select skates with soft wheels, typically with a durometer rating between 78A and 82A. These wheels have better grip and shock absorption, perfect for uneven surfaces. A wheel diameter from 58 mm to 65 mm is advised—larger wheels provide more speed and handle pavement cracks better, whereas smaller wheels are easier to manage, ideal for beginners.
  • Aggressive Skating (Hard Wheels): For those partial to aggressive or park skating, opt for harder wheels with durometers from 95A to 100A. Such wheels are more robust and have a smaller diameter, approximately 56 mm, offering enhanced control for tricks and quick maneuvers.
  • Roller Dance/Jam Skating (Medium-Hard Wheels): Jam skaters and roller dancers generally prefer medium-hard wheels, with durometers around 80A to 85A. These wheels balance grip and speed, yet it is essential to adjust according to the surface, such as smoother indoor rinks or more rugged outdoor areas.

If the wheels on desirable skates don't align with your needs, they can be replaced with a different set available separately. Watch our video for guidance:

It provides straightforward instructions to perform this at home. Many skaters maintain multiple wheel sets for use in varying environments, maximising performance in any setting. To secure the necessary wheels, explore our category:

Getting to Know Roller Skate Bearings

Bearings in roller skates often utilise the ABEC scale, which runs from ABEC 1 to ABEC 9, measuring the precision of the bearing's construction. Higher numbers indicate greater precision, theoretically resulting in smoother rolling; however, the bearing's overall quality generally has a more substantial influence over how swiftly your wheels spin.

For uninterrupted rolling, proper bearing maintenance is critical. Adhere to these recommendations:

  • Avoid Humidity: Always store roller skates in dry environments to prevent rust or degradation from moisture.
  • Dry Post-Wet Surfaces: If skating in rain or near water, thoroughly dry the bearings afterwards.
  • Regular Cleaning and Lubrication: Maintain bearings by routine cleaning and lubrication to keep them in optimal condition. Informative video guide here:

With diligent care, your skate bearings will last longer and deliver a smoother skating experience. Should you need replacements, browse our category:

Understanding Roller Skate Toe Stops & Jam Plugs

Roller skate toe stops are available in two main designs: bull-eye and adjustable stops. Both can serve beginners well, but adjustable stops are recommended for skaters with intermediate to advanced experience.

  • Bull-Eye Toe Stops: These fixed stops limit customisation but are absolutely adequate for beginners, although they offer fewer options for personalised fit and function.
  • Adjustable Toe Stops: These stops allow height adjustment to suit personal preference, offering greater adaptability, particularly when altering wheel sizes or exploring different skating styles. For more on adjusting toe stops, watch our tutorial video:

It's important to note that bull-eye stops cannot be exchanged for adjustable ones. Nonetheless, if you wish to replace worn-out stops or personalise your skates' appearance, our category covers it:

Jam plugs replace stops for roller dancers and jam skaters. These small rubber pieces facilitate dance moves by providing a more solid base during pivots without the bulk of typical toe stops. Although jam plugs don't allow for braking, they protect the plate and are essential for seamless movements.

Roller Skate Grind Blocks for Aggressive Skating

Grind blocks, also known as slide blocks or sliders, are vital for skaters endeavoured in grinding or sliding on rails and ledges. If planning park visits or trying aggressive street skating, consider skates that come with grind blocks.

Initially, skates equipped with grind blocks may seem slightly rigid. However, adaptation comes quickly, and as grinding commences, you'll appreciate the advantages of having blocks! If tempted by skates featuring grind blocks but don't intend to grind, fret not—blocks can be easily removed.

Essential Protective Gear for Roller Skating

Protective gear is crucial for all skaters, but even more so for beginners, urban skaters, or those partaking in aggressive styles. Essential gear includes a helmet, wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads. These not only safeguard you, but having full protection boosts confidence, accelerating learning and encouraging bravery.

When purchasing new skates, it is prudent to acquire protective gear simultaneously. At SkatePro, we accommodate all your requirements:

For added convenience, view our bundles:

These include roller skates, protective gear, and a skate bag for a complete set!

The Advantages of Owning Roller Skates

Often referred to as quad skates, roller skates are cherished for their timeless retro appeal while remaining relevant and exciting! If you are still weighing the decision to buy a pair, consider this: roller skates present endless opportunities. Whether you aim to perform tricks, engage in an effective workout, enjoy time with friends at the rink, or master impressive dance skills, roller skates are your gateway to a vibrant and enjoyable experience.

Furthermore, roller skates provide greater lateral stability than inline skates due to their broad baseplate, making them appealing to those just starting out. Seasoned skaters also gain from this increased control, which they utilise to challenge themselves and execute more complex tricks.

Finally, roller skates come in an array of colours, styles, and sizes, making them accessible for everyone and an excellent way to showcase your personality!

Interested in discovering the advantages of roller skating? Make sure to explore our comprehensive guide:

Still in doubt? Do not hesitate to reach out to us as we are always ready to assist:

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