Our guide to the best inline skates for women details top models for fun and fitness from the brands we trust.
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Finding the Perfect Inline Skates
Inline skating has seen a significant resurgence since the pandemic, and this interest spiked further with the release of the Barbie movie. The sport has attracted new skaters and re-engaged those who enjoyed it in their youth, drawn by its mix of fun and fitness. Having dedicated the last 30 years to promoting inline skating, I am thrilled to see many new and returning enthusiasts and am excited to help you find your perfect pair of skates!
With so many options from top brands like Powerslide, Rollerblade, and K2, each designed for different skill levels and styles, choosing the right skates can seem overwhelming. To make it easier, Megan and I have compiled a list of some of the best inline skates for women. This list focuses on skates with a supportive fit, user-friendly design, and durability. Whether skating for fitness, fun or as a gateway to more advanced skating, this guide will help you make a well-informed decision about finding the perfect pair of skates.
Choosing the Right Inline Skates for Your Skating Style
Choosing the right inline skates means finding a pair that fits your skill level and skating style. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll break down two main types of inline skates for women—soft boot and hard boot Inline Skates. We’ll then break down our top picks in three popular skating styles: Recreational, Fitness, and Urban Skating. Each category has unique features that cater to different experiences, whether you’re cruising around the neighborhood, engaging in a fitness routine, or navigating urban landscapes. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills, this guide offers detailed insights to help you make the best choice. Let’s explore the different types of skates and styles of skating to find the perfect pair for your adventures.
Soft Boot Inline Skates
Thanks to their soft, flexible shell, soft boot inline skates offer comfort, a lightweight feel, and easy adjustment, making them ideal for women new to inline skating. Many beginners love the carefree experience soft boot inline skates provide while learning new skills. They work best on smooth surfaces like roller rinks and smooth paths. Usually, soft boot skates come with a composite plastic frame with four wheels. New skaters should avoid the temptation of three-wheel skates with bigger wheels because they have a higher center of gravity and are less stable, making them more difficult to learn on.
Hard Boot Inline Skates
Hard boot skates are tough and long-lasting, providing more control and support than soft boots. They’re perfect for women already skilled at skating, skiing, or ice skating or naturally athletic and quick learners. These skates have metal frames and a durable shell, offering excellent protection and stability. They also hold up well against impacts and falls. Hard boot skates are ideal for women who want to do more than just skate straight—they’re perfect for creative skating, like jumping, skating backward, performing crossovers, and exploring new possibilities. Plus, they provide skaters the opportunity to learn advanced moves in disciplines like slalom or urban skating.
Our Top Picks for the Best Inline Skates for Women
We have reviewed and curated a list all the skates available from the top inline skating brands and selected our choices of the best inline skates for women. We have chosen a mix of soft and hard boot models suitable for beginner to advanced skaters for recreational, fitness, and urban skating. In the table below, we break down our top picks, detailing the boot type, frame mounting system, wheel size, durometer, and price; continue scrolling to find more in-depth details on each skate.
| Skates | ||
| K2 Kinetic | ||
| Rollerblade Zetrablade | ||
| Rollerblade Macroblade 80 | ||
| K2 Trio LT 100 | ||
| K2 Alexis 84 BOA | ||
| Powerslide Phuzion Argon 100 | ||
| Rollerblade Macroblade 110 | ||
| Powerslide Swell Marawa 100 | ||
| FR FRX | ||
| FR FRW | ||
| Rolllerblade Lightning | ||
| Powerslide Storm Nicoly Pro | ||
| Rollerblade Twister XT | ||
| Powerslide Next Miriam Fatmi Pro | ||
Soft Boot Skates
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| Brake |
K2 Kinetic 80
The K2 Kinetic 80 inline skates are an excellent choice for women new to skating who want an affordable option for casual skating, fitness, and fun. These soft boot skates provide a comfortable and snug fit, with a Stability Plus Cuff that offers strong ankle support for better control. Although they don’t have all the features of higher-end models, they’re a fantastic option for beginners and deliver great value for the price. ($99.95)
Features: The K2 Kinetic 80 features a soft boot upper with an integrated liner, a plastic cuff secured by standard lacing, a 45° Velcro strap, and a cuff buckle, along with a monocoque composite plastic frame built into the boot, equipped with K2 80mm 80A wheels and ABEC 5 bearings, and is available in sizes 6-11.
Rollerblade Zetrablade
The Rollerblade Zetrablade is a great beginner-friendly inline skate known for its affordability, comfort, and quality. Its monocoque frame lowers the center of gravity, making it stable and easy to control—perfect for new skaters. The soft boot design has good ventilation to keep feet cool in warm weather. It features 80mm 80A wheels with ABEC 5 bearings, providing a smooth ride, though the softer wheels may wear out faster on rough surfaces. The boot secures with laces, a cuff buckle, and a 45° Velcro strap for a snug fit. Available in sizes 6-10, it’s an ideal choice for those new to skating. ($139.00)
Thoughts: While the skates have limited customization due to most components being built into the boot, the Zetrablade remains an excellent choice for women new to inline skating, offering great comfort and performance value.
Rollerblade Macroblade 80
The Rollerblade Macroblade 80 Inline Skates are a great choice for women who are new to inline skating or want skates for light fitness training. These skates are designed to be easy to use, making them perfect for both casual skating and fitness routines. The soft mesh boots provide a good mix of performance and comfort, keeping your feet cool and comfortable. Plus, you can upgrade to 84mm wheels if you want to go faster as you get more experienced. Whether you’re skating in the park or starting a workout, the Macroblade 80 offers a smooth and enjoyable ride. ($189.00)
Features: The Rollerblade Macroblade 80 skates are perfect for recreational and fitness skaters, featuring sturdy Twinblade aluminum frames, 80mm 82A wheels with SG5 bearings, and the option to upgrade to 84mm wheels for faster speeds. The high cuff provides excellent support, while the Performance Form Fit liners ensure a comfortable fit. Secured with a cuff buckle, 45-degree Velcro strap, and laces, these skates offer great control and are available in sizes 5-10.5, making them ideal for smooth rides in various settings.
K2 Trio LT 100
The K2 Trio LT 100 inline skates are ideal for women interested in commuting and trail skating, excelling on smooth surfaces. While the large wheels handle rough terrain well, they might wear out quickly since they’re softer. These skates are popular for their comfort, maneuverability, and secure fit, making them great for long rides. Beginners may need time to adjust to the three-wheel design, but they’re easy to put on and take off, with a stylish look that many skaters love. ($209.95)
Features: The K2 Trio LT 100 features a soft boot with an integrated liner and plastic cuff, secured by standard lacing, a cuff buckle, and a 45° power strap. Available in size 6-11. It has a non-removable monocoque stamped aluminum frame with 100mm 83A wheels and TwinCam ILQ-7 bearings for smooth performance.
K2 Alexis 84 Boa
The K2 Alexis 84 BOA inline skates are ideal for women aiming to boost their fitness routine. The 84mm wheels offer great speed and control on rough terrain. The standout feature is the BOA® Fit System, allowing quick and precise adjustments for a snug, supportive fit, even during long skates. Although the frames and liners are not replaceable, this won’t be an issue for most beginner, casual, or fitness skaters. For those interested in more versatility, consider skates with 165mm or trinity mounting. Overall, the K2 Alexis 84 BOA is highly praised for its comfort and fit, making it an excellent fitness choice. ($219.95)
Features: The K2 Alexis 84 BOA offers a soft boot shell with a plastic cuff and integrated liner, secured by BOA speed lacing, a 45° strap, and a cuff buckle. It features a riveted stamped aluminum frame with 84mm 80A wheels and TwinCam ILQ-7 bearings, available in sizes 4-11.
Powerslide Phuzion Argon 100
The Powerslide Phuzion Argon 110 inline skates in berry are perfect for women who want speed, comfort, and eco-friendly design. They offer a stylish look and practical features suitable for both beginners and experienced skaters. The soothing color and advanced design make these skates comfortable, helping you skate longer and perform better. ($219.95)
Features: The Powerslide Phuzion Argon 110 features large 110mm wheels for a smooth glide over long distances, with soft, well-ventilated boots made from 30% recycled plastic. The MyFit Recall Memory Fit liners provide a personalized fit, secured by a high cuff, micro-adjustable buckles, and laces. With TRINITY X mounting technology for better stability and power transfer, these skates come with ADC10 aluminum frames, 100mm 83A wheels, and ABEC9 bearings. They include a HABS brake and are available in sizes 6.5-10, making them ideal for skaters seeking performance and sustainability.
Rollerblade Macroblade 110 3WD
The Rollerblade Macroblade 110 3WD skates are perfect for intermediate to advanced female skaters who love endurance training, marathons, or fast rides. With 110mm wheels and a high cuff for stability, they deliver excellent performance. While beginners might find the taller stance challenging, these skates are ideal for women aiming to boost their fitness, racing, or enjoy the thrill of speed. ($299.99)
Features: The Rollerblade Macroblade features a vented soft boot shell with plastic cuffs, a non-removable liner secured inside with speed laces, an aluminum cuff buckle, and a 45° strap. Available in size 5-10.5 A non-removable monocoque 3WD Trwinblade aluminum frame with Hydrogen SE 110mm 85A wheels and Twincam ILQ-9 Classic Plus bearings are mounted to the boots.
Powerslide Swell Marawa 100
The Powerslide Swell Marawa 100 inline skates for women are the result of an exciting collaboration with Marawa Ibrahim, blending style with high-performance functionality. These skates present a classic inline aesthetic, but don’t let their looks deceive you—they’re packed with cutting-edge features designed for serious fitness skating and cross-training. Crafted to meet the demands of rigorous workouts and leisurely rolls, these skates combine comfort, stability, and a smooth glide to ensure every skating session is as efficient as enjoyable. ($329.95)
Features: The Powerslide Swell Marawa inline skates offer comfort and performance for women, featuring heat-moldable MyFit liners with recall memory foam for a snug fit. Available in sizes 6-12.5. The hybrid composite boots with adjustable cuff buckles, a 45-degree Velcro strap, and standard lacing provide customization. The Trinity Frame Mounting system ensures stability and energy transfer, while the adjustable Elite aluminum frames lower the center of gravity. Equipped with 100mm glittery transparent PU wheels (85A hardness), ABEC9 bearings, and a HABS brake system, these skates deliver a smooth, stable ride.
Hard Boot Inline Skates
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FR FRX 80
The FR FRX 80 urban freeskate is a great value for a hard boot inline skate for women under $200. It’s sturdy and high-performing, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced skaters, offering excellent stability and comfort. The rockerable frames let you adjust the axles for better maneuverability in slalom or more stability for city skating. Since it’s sized in men’s sizes, women should size down for the best fit. Whether you’re skating in the city or practicing intricate moves, the FR FRX 80 delivers quality at an affordable price. ($190.00)
Features: The FR FRX80 features a durable plastic shell and cuff and includes a removable liner held in place with standard lacing, a 45° power strap, and a cuff buckle for a secure fit. Available in sizes 3-13. It’s equipped with a 165mm mount X2R rockerable frame, rolling on FR Street Kings 80mm wheels at an 85A hardness, and complete with FR Twincam MW7 Freeride bearings for smooth riding.
FR FRW 80
The FR FRW 80 inline skates are designed for women or anyone needing a narrower fit, featuring a bold black and pink color scheme. These skates are sturdy and supportive, making them perfect for freestyle, freeride, or urban skating. Whether you’re navigating city streets or practicing tricks at the skate park, the FR FRW offers a reliable, comfortable, and stylish option. ($190.00)
Features: The FR FRW 80 skates feature an X2R rockerable frame for adjustable wheel positioning, ideal for both casual and agile skating. They have molded plastic boots with an adjustable cuff and removable V-cut liners with EVA shock-absorbing insoles, available in sizes 3-13. Equipped with FR Pink Street Kings 80mm 85A wheels and TwinCam MW7 bearings, they offer a smooth ride. The skates include a brake that can be easily removed or reattached, and the closure system features a plastic cuff buckle, a 45-degree Velcro strap, and standard lacing for a secure fit.
Rolllerblade Lightning 90
The Rollerblade Lightning 90 ($249.99) is a stylish and modern addition to Rollerblade’s women’s lineup, featuring a black and sangria design. With 90mm wheels, they offer a great balance of speed and agility, making them ideal for urban skating, fitness, commuting, or fun sessions. Originally popular in the 1990s, the Lightning is now back, fully redesigned. It includes memory buckles for quick and easy adjustments, providing a comfortable skating experience. The Lightning is also available in an 80mm version with a sleek white boot.
Features: The Rollerblade Lightning 90 features a molded plastic shell and cuff with a removable liner, secured by standard lacing, a 45° memory buckle, and a memory cuff buckle. It has an attached extruded aluminum frame with 165mm and 185mm mounting options, equipped with Hydrogen SE 90mm 85A wheels and Rollerblade SG9 bearings.
Powerslide Storm Nicoly Pro 80
The Powerslide Storm Nicoly Pro 80 skates are the first pro model for Brazilian skater Nicoly Machado, known for her impressive skills in aggressive and urban skating. Recognized as one of the top skaters worldwide, these skates celebrate her talent. With a stylish powder blue design, they’re built to handle the intense demands of Nicoly’s skating style. ($299.95)
Features: The Powerslide Storm, introduced in 2024, features a wider fit similar to the Imperial model with a 165mm frame mount spacing. It includes heat-moldable MyFit Fat Boy dual-fit liners for comfort, secured by laces, a cuff buckle, and a 45-degree micro-adjustable strap. Built on lightweight CNC-machined Powerslide Beta 6061 aluminum frames, the skates come with four 80mm 88A Spinner wheels and Wicked ABEC9 bearings, making them ideal for fast urban freeskating. Available in sizes 5.5-12.
Rollerblade Twister XT
The Rollerblade Twister XT is a top choice for urban skating, with improved fit and comfort over older models. Its hard boot shell offers excellent stability for fast-paced city skating, while the cushioned liner and insoles absorb impact from jumps. With better ventilation, a V-cut liner, and a flexible tongue, it’s comfortable even in warmer climates. Suitable for beginners to experts, the Twister XT is ideal for skaters looking for both performance and support. ($339.99)
Features: The Rollerblade Twister XT features a vented molded plastic shell with removable high-performance liners, secured by standard lacing, a locking cuff buckle, and a 45° micro-adjustable buckle. It has a 165mm mounting base, an extruded aluminum frame, and high-quality Hydrogen Spectre 80mm 85A wheels with Twincam ILQ-9 Classic Plus bearings, available in sizes 6-10.5.
Powerslide Next Miriam Fatmi Pro
The Powerslide Next Miriam Fatmi Pro skates are designed for Spanish skater Miriam Fatmi, known for her skills in slalom, downhill, and urban skating. Built for intense urban skating, these skates stand out with their striking purple accents and colorful Nova Frames. The Powerslide Next Boots offer advanced technology for customization, making them a top pick for skaters who want both high performance and style. ($429.99)
Features: The Powerslide Next Miriam Fatmi Pro 110 features a hard shell with a height-adjustable Next Cuff for personalized ankle support and MyFit Skinny Boy dual-fit liners that mold to your feet, offering comfort and ventilation. The TRINITY frame mounting system enhances stability and control with a low center of gravity. Equipped with CNC-machined 6061 aluminum Nova Frames, Spinner 100mm 88A wheels, and Wicked ABEC9 bearings, the skates are versatile and support upgrades to 3x110mm wheels. This makes them ideal for skaters seeking speed, agility, and comfort. Available in sizes 5-12.5.
Inline Skating Disciplines
Recreational Skates
Recreational inline skates are designed for comfort and stability, making them ideal for women who are casual skaters and beginners. They typically feature a soft boot construction that offers a more forgiving fit and breathable comfort, which is perfect for leisurely rides in parks or on smooth paths. I would choose them for their versatility and ease of use, which is excellent for anyone who wants to skate at a relaxed pace while enjoying the outdoors.
Fitness Skates
Fitness inline skates are built for speed and endurance and are equipped with larger wheels and a stiffer boot that provides better power transfer and aerodynamics. They often come with enhanced features like better bearings and lightweight frames, tailored for longer skating sessions and improving cardiovascular health. I would choose them for their performance-oriented design, ideal for women looking to maximize their workout and push their limits.
Urban Skates
Urban inline skates are robust and agile, designed to handle the rougher terrain and obstacles found in city environments. These skates come with wheels of various sizes between 80mm and 125mm, and these wheels are generally harder around 85-88A, ideal for harsh road conditions. Urban skates use a rigid and stable hard boot shell and a metal frame for better control and protection from bumps and impacts. I would choose them for their durability and maneuverability, perfect for an adventurous skater who navigates crowded streets and varied surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our FAQ section on the best inline skates for women. Here, we answer common questions about inline skating, including the differences between men’s and women’s skates, sizing tips, recommended protective gear, and the exercise benefits of skating. We also discuss the features of recreational versus performance skates and share essential maintenance tips. This section is designed to help you choose and care for your skates effectively while enjoying the many benefits of inline skating.
Is their a difference between inline skates for women and men?
Inline skates for women are often designed with a narrower fit and aesthetic difference to suit female skaters’ typical foot shape and lower center of gravity. However, many skates are unisex; the main differences are often just the color schemes and available sizes. Women’s skates usually come in smaller sizes, whereas men’s are available in a broader range of sizes.
How do I select the appropriate size for inline skates?
Inline skates should fit snugly but still allow your toes a little room to move. Always refer to the manufacturer’s size chart because sizing can differ among brands. For the most accurate fit, measure your foot in centimeters while it’s flat on the ground to determine your mondo size, which is the best way to ensure your skates fit well.
What protective gear is recommended for inline skating?
I’ve seen too many friends suffer head injuries over the years, so I always wear a helmet when I skate and recommend you do the same. Wrist guards are also essential; I’ve sustained numerous injuries from not wearing them. It’s better to be safe from the start, especially if you’re a beginner, rather than learning the hard way like I did. If you’re feeling nervous or anxious about skating and the risk of injury, adding knee, elbow, and hip pads can boost your confidence and help you overcome any mental hurdles. As you become more confident in your skating, you can decide which pads you feel are necessary and which you can do without.
Is inline skating a good form of exercise?
Absolutely! Inline skating is a fantastic cardiovascular workout that builds lower-body strength and endurance. Studies have shown that it offers an exercise intensity similar to running but with less impact on your joints and bones. This makes it gentler on your body while still providing a rigorous workout. Additionally, many people use inline skating for cross-training in other sports, such as skiing and cycling.
What are the differences between recreational and performance inline skates?
Recreational skates are designed to be lightweight, stable, and comfortable, ideal for fitness and leisure skating. Many feature a soft boot shell, which provides excellent ventilation, making them a great choice if you live in a warmer climate. In contrast, performance skates typically have a hard boot or carbon shell, offering more rigidity and built for speed and efficiency. They also provide more ankle support, so if you find soft boot skates too flexible for your ankles, switching to a hard boot skate might be a better option. Intermediate and advanced skaters often choose these types of skates as they are more specialized, have better components, and are more upgradeable than fitness skates. These skates are designed specifically for disciplines like urban, slalom, aggressive, and long-distance skating activities and are generally more expensive than fitness skates.
What should I do to keep my inline skates in good condition?
Regular maintenance is essential to extend the lifespan of your skates and ensure your safety. Wipe down your wheels and bearings, especially if you’ve skated through dirt, mud, or water, as these elements can cause the bearings to rust or seize, leading to premature replacement. Rotating your wheels after every few skating sessions is also important to ensure even wear and prevent them from becoming uneven or developing flat spots. The more frequently you rotate them, the longer they will last before needing replacement. Additionally, regularly check and tighten the cuff, wheel, and frame bolts. If you plan on doing a long skate, you should always carry a tool and some spare parts with you. I’ve experienced the inconvenience of losing a cuff bolt halfway through a 30-mile rural skate in the Texas heat due to neglecting these checks. Regular upkeep can prevent such issues and save you money in buying replacement parts.
Why Trust Big Wheel Blading?
I’ve been involved in the inline skating industry since 1995 and have seen and handled nearly every skate model. Over the years, I’ve worked for multiple skating magazines and have managed several skating brands, dealing with everything from wheels and bearings to complete skates. This has involved working side be side with manufacturers and overseeing quality control. Thanks to this extensive experience, I deeply understand how skates have evolved and their various features, pros, and cons. This background enables me to provide expert recommendations in this buyer’s guide for the best inline skates for women from the most trustworthy brands.
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