For the Best Inline Skates for Kids buyers’ guide, we go through the best quality skates on the market for kids from brands we trust.
We independently selected all products in the Best Inline Skates for Kids article. We may earn a commission through affiliate programs if you click the links we provide.
Last Updated: 04/25/2024
Navigating the Kid’s Inline Skate Market
Spring is here, and summer is just around the corner. Your kids are likely itching to get outdoors and excited about summer adventures. If you’re searching for an excellent activity for your child or something you can enjoy together, consider inline skating. Often called “rollerblading,” it provides kids with a fun mix of speed, skill, and freedom.
The thrill of skating can make kids feel like they’re flying. As they learn new moves, they’ll feel proud of their achievements, which is great for their growth. Plus, skating opens up opportunities for adventure and making new friends, whether in the neighborhood, at community parks, or the skating rink. Inline skating is not only fun, but it also builds confidence and encourages a spirit of adventure.
I’ve been deeply involved in the inline skating industry since 1995. For the past 27 years, I’ve had the privilege of introducing numerous kids and adults to the joys of skating. To make your life easier and save precious time, I’ve meticulously curated a selection of the best inline skates for kids. My goal with this list is to help you to make the best decision for your little ones so they can roll into the summer with a smile on their face.
Rollerblade Apex Hard Boot Skates
Prioritize Safety and Comfort with the Best Inline Skate Brands
Searching online or perusing various “Best of” lists makes it easy to spot many budget-friendly inline skates for kids, especially on platforms like Amazon. Brands like Papaison, Kuxuan, and 2PM Sports pop up, showcasing skates in the $20 to $60 range. While such prices can indeed be appealing, it’s worth approaching them with a hint of caution. Often, these budget options may use less durable or comfortable materials. Just imagine if your children’s excitement for skating wanes due to discomfort or safety concerns.
When buying skates for kids we highly recommend brands like K2, Rollerblade, Powerslide, Bont, Flying Eagle FR, USD, or Razors who are known for high-quality products. These brands have built a solid reputation in the inline skating community primarily because they prioritize safety, comfort, and performance. Given kids’ boundless energy, a reliable pair of skates can make their skating journey safer and more enjoyable. While going for a cheaper option initially might seem cost-saving, investing in a quality pair could lead to cherished memories and ensure peace of mind. After all, the experience and joy these skates bring to your child’s life is priceless. As you make your choice, keep in mind your family’s needs and budget, ensuring you strike the right balance between quality and affordability.
K2 Raider and K2 Marlee Soft Boot Skates
Extend the Fun with Inline Skates that Adjust as Your Child Grows
In this guide, we’re exploring some of the best adjustable inline skates for kids. Think of these skates as growing shoes, expanding to 4-5 sizes as your child’s feet grow. This feature is a favorite among parents because the skates can be used for several years, no matter how quickly those little feet grow. And once your child outgrows them? These skates are perfect for handing down to younger siblings, cousins, or friends. Plus, adjustable skates make online shopping easier, removing the guesswork of sizing. Whether your child is just starting or is an experienced skater, these skates are suitable for all skill levels. No more worrying about size, just fun-filled skating sessions!
Rollerblade Microblade Soft Boot Skates
Choosing the Perfect Inline Skates for Your Child
Choosing the best inline skates for your child involves understanding the different types available and matching them to your child’s skating level and interests. This guide will examine the two main kinds of inline skates for kids: Soft Boots and Hard Boots. We’ll also investigate four skate styles: Recreational, Urban, Aggressive, and Speed. Each type has its own set of features and advantages, catering to various skating adventures, whether leisurely rides around the block or thrilling sessions at the skate park. Whether your child is just starting out or looking to level up their skating skills, we have comprehensive insights to help you make the best purchase. Let’s delve into the specifics of each type to ensure you find the perfect pair of skates for your young skater.
Soft boot Inline Skates for Kids
Thanks to their soft, flexible shell, soft boot inline skates are comfy, lightweight, and adjust easily to fit a child’s foot. They’re great for kids new to skating who want a fun, carefree experience while learning new skills. Soft boot skates work best on smooth surfaces like roller rinks, well-paved paths, or even right in front of your house, as long as the road is smooth. Typically, soft boot skates have four wheels on a composite plastic frame. Beginners should steer clear of three-wheel skates with larger wheels, as they sit higher off the ground and are more challenging to learn on.
Hard boot Inline Skates for Kids
Hard boot skates are rigid and durable, offering kids extra control and support. They’re a good fit for kids who already know how to skate, ski, or ice skate or are generally athletic and quickly pick up new skills. These skates come with metal frames, and the shell is more robust, providing better protection and stability and holding up well against impacts and falls. Hard boot skates are perfect for kids who want to do more than just skate straight—they’re ideal for jumping, skating backward, doing crossovers, and exploring. They also open up more opportunities for advanced moves in disciplines like slalom or urban skating.
Recreational Inline Skates for Kids
Recreational inline skates for kids are designed for fun and easy-going skating experiences. With a focus on comfort and stability, these skates typically feature a soft boot construction and moderate wheel size between 70 to 80mm. They’re perfect for leisurely rides around the neighborhood, cruising along smooth pathways in the park, or skating at the roller rink. Recreational inline skates prioritize comfort and ease of use, making them ideal for beginners and casual skaters looking to enjoy a relaxed skating session.
Urban Inline Skates for Kids
Urban inline skates for kids are built to handle varied city surfaces and obstacles with a durable hard boot construction and shock-absorbing components. Their wheel setup balances speed and agility, perfect for navigating through pedestrians and jumping curbs. These skates are ideal for kids ready for adventurous city skating, providing stability and boosting confidence as they explore urban environments.
Aggressive Inline Skates for Kids
Aggressive inline skates are designed for experienced skaters to perform tricks in skate parks. These hard boot skates feature durable frames, smaller hard wheels, and a soulplate boot ideal for grinds and jumps. Due to the higher injury risk, young skaters must wear safety gear and be supervised to develop their skills safely.
Inline Speed Skates for Kids
Inline speed skates are streamlined, lightweight and designed for racing. They feature low-cut boots for ankle flexibility and large wheels to boost speed. The longer frames provide stability at high speeds, which is ideal for competition and training. They are usually made from high-quality materials like carbon fiber. These skates offer performance and durability for kids with a strong skating foundation looking to improve speed and efficiency, helping young racers advance their skills.
Flying Eagle Skates
Things to Consider When Buying Kids’ Inline Skates
Selecting the right inline skates for your child can significantly enhance their skating experience. It’s not just about the look of the skates but how well they match your child’s abilities, where they will be skating, and the activities they intend to pursue. Before purchasing, it’s crucial to consider several key factors to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Here’s what to keep in mind when shopping for the best inline skates for your kids:
Skill Level and Skating Style
Assess your child’s current skill level and the type of skating they are interested in. Select soft boot skates for beginners to learn to use, whereas more advanced skaters will want hard boot skates that allow for more speed and agility.
Skating Environment
Think about where your child will be skating. Soft boot skates are a good choice if they’ll be on smooth indoor surfaces like roller rinks or well-paved trails. However, hard boot skates are suggested for rough outdoor environments like sidewalks, pavement, and skateparks.
Wheel Type and Size
Larger wheels are great for going fast and rolling over rough surfaces, while smaller wheels provide more control and stability, perfect for tricks and sharp turns. It would help if you also considered the hardness of the wheels, depending on whether your child will be skating indoors or outdoors.
Skates with Three or Four Wheels
The most typical setup for inline skates is four wheels, which keeps the skates stable and close to the ground, making them great for beginners. Three-wheel skates with larger wheels have gained popularity in recent years, particularly among adults, who handle rough terrain better and can reach higher speeds, though they have a slower acceleration.
Child’s Fitness Level
If your child is active in sports, they’ll likely enjoy and do well with hard boot skates, built for more physical activity. Skills from other sports, such as roller skating, ice skating, hockey, or skateboarding, can be useful in inline skating, helping you choose the best type of skates for your child. For example, kids who have ice skating or hockey experience may find it easier to use inline skates that are made for fast and agile movements.
Safety
To minimize the risk of injuries, prioritize skates with excellent ankle support. Also, investing in protective gear such as helmets and pads is essential, especially for beginners or when trying aggressive skating.
Our Top Picks for the Best Inline Skates for Kids
Prepare for my carefully curated collection of the best inline skates for kids from the most reputable brands in the industry. I’ll provide insights into what makes these skates stand out and guide you through the distinctive features of each pair as you scroll. Let’s delve into the realm of skates designed to grow with your child and ensure the excitement never fades!
| Skate | What We Like | Price |
| K2 Raider | Best Budget Soft Boot | $69.95 |
| Rollerblade Fury | Best Budget Hard Boot | $79.00 – $89.00 |
| K2 Marlee | Best Budget Soft Boot | $84.95 |
| Flying Eagle S5S | Best for Bigger Kids | $98.95 |
| Rollerblade Microblade | Best for Recreational | $109.00 |
| Bont Scoot | Best Three Wheel Skate | $129.99 |
| Rollerblade Apex | Best Overall | $139.00 |
| K2 SK8 HERO BOA | Best BOA Skate Boys | $149.95 – $159.95 |
| K2 Charm BOA | Best BOA Skate Girls | $159.95 |
| Flying Eagle S6 | Best Urban Skate for Speed | $160.00 |
| Razors Genesys Junior | Classic Aggressive Skate | $179.00 – $189.00 |
| USD Transformer | Best Overall Aggressive | $199.95 |
| USD Glitch | Best Aggressive for Little Kids | $199.99 |
| Powerslide Accel Race 84 | Best Speed Skate | $499.95 |
K2 Raider
The K2 Raider skates are crafted for kids’ comfort, featuring a breathable lining to keep feet cool and an adjustable design for up to five sizes at the press of a button. The skates’ composite frame, built into the base, helps with balance and reduces vibrations, equipped with 4x72mm or 4x76mm wheels and ABEC 3 bearings for a smooth ride suitable for beginners. The K2 Raider Beam adds fun to skating with LED lights in the tongue and toes, offering three light patterns for visibility and entertainment. The Raider Pro version improves on the standard model with the K2 Speed Lacing System, ensuring a snug fit and easy lace management. The K2 Raider BOA upgrades to the BOA Turn-Dial Speed Lacing system, simplifying the process of putting on and taking off the skates, ensuring a perfect fit with minimal effort. These design innovations provide children with comfortable, enjoyable, and convenient skating experiences, promoting outdoor activity and skill development.
For more information, check out our comprehensive K2 Raider Review.
| K2 Raider Specifications | |
| Boot | Soft Boot |
| Frame | F.B.I. Monocoque, Composite |
| Wheels | 70mm 80A (sizes Y11 – 2) 72mm 80A (size 1 – 8) |
| Bearings | ABEC 3 |
| Brake | Yes, Removable |
| US Sizes | Y11 – 2 | 1 – 5 | 4 – 8 |
| EU Sizes | 29 – 34 | 32 – 37 | 35 – 40 |
| Price | $69.95 – $139.95 |
Rollerblade Fury
The Rollerblade Fury inline skates are great starter skates for kids, featuring a cool, urban-inspired design. These skates have molded plastic shells that provide support and stability. They can adjust to four sizes, making them perfect for growing with your child or sharing among siblings. The boys’ and girls’ models offer the exact same fit, differing only in color. They come equipped with 72mm 80A wheels and Rollerblade SG3 bearings, integrated into a frame that allows for a smooth ride and the option to upgrade to 76mm wheels for more speed as skills improve. With their value pricing, the Fury skates are an excellent choice for kids just beginning to skate.
| Rollerblade Fury Specifications | |
| Boot | Molded Plastic |
| Frame | Integrated, Composite Plastic |
| Wheels | Rollerblade 72mm 80A |
| Bearings | Rollerblade SG3 |
| Brake | Yes, Removable |
| US Sizes | Y12 – 2 | 2 – 6 | 5 – 8 |
| EU Sizes | 29 – 33 | 33 – 38 | 36.5 – 40.5 |
| Price | $79.00 – $89.00 |
K2 Marlee
The K2 Marlee inline skates are an affordable, high-quality choice for kids, featuring adjustable sizing to grow with them and available in versions with LED lights (K2 Marlee Beam), speed lacing (K2 Marlee Pro), and the BOA lacing system (K2 Marlee BOA) for added fun and convenience. Designed with children’s comfort in mind, these skates have a breathable lining to prevent overheating and blisters, and an easy adjustment mechanism for changing up to five sizes easily. The integrated composite frame reduces vibrations and helps with balance, making them suitable for beginners. With 4x72mm wheels for smaller sizes and 4x76mm wheels for larger sizes, combined with ABEC 3 bearings, the Marlee skates ensure a smooth, controlled ride on various surfaces.
For more information, check out our comprehensive K2 Marlee Review.
| K2 Marlee Specifications | |
| Boot | Soft Boot |
| Frame | Monocoque, Composite |
| Wheels | 70mm 80A (sizes Y11 – 2) 72mm 80A (size 1 – 8) |
| Bearings | ABEC 3 |
| Brake | Yes, Removable |
| US Sizes | Y11 – 2 | 1 – 5 | 4 – 8 |
| EU Sizes | 29 – 34 | 32 – 37 | 35 – 40 |
| Price | $84.95 – $139.95 |
Related: 40 Awesome Skating Toys Kids Will Love This Christmas
Flying Eagle S5S
The Flying Eagle S5S adjustable kids skates, covering sizes 2 to 9.5, excel in the adjustable skate category with their innovative features, appealing to both novice and advanced urban freeskaters. A unique feature is the dual-threaded rear axles, allowing for straightforward brake removal by unscrewing the outer screws, avoiding axle replacement. The skates feature CNC-machined aluminum frames with initially larger outer wheels, which, when moved to the center, create a nimble, rockered setup; the frames can also shift sideways for a personalized fit or to correct stance issues. Size adjustments are made through a simple button mechanism for the toe area, complemented by comfortable liners with expandable neoprene toes, accommodating growing feet.
| Flying Eagle S5S Specifications | |
| Boot | Plastic |
| Frame | CNC Machined Aluminum 150mm (US 2 – 5.5) 165mm (US 6 – 9.5) |
| Wheels | 72x70x70x72 85A (US 2 – 5.5) 76x74x74x76 85A (US 6 – 9.5) |
| Bearings | ABEC 7 |
| Brake | In the Box |
| US Sizes | 2 – 5.5 | 6 – 9.5 |
| EU Sizes | 33 – 37 | 38 – 42 |
| Price | $98.95 |
Related: 50 Awesome Gift Ideas for Inline Skaters
Rollerblade Microblade
The Rollerblade Microblade stands out as a top-notch kids’ inline skate, offering sneaker-like comfort with a four-size adjustable system to fit growing feet, making it ideal for both novice and seasoned young skaters. Available in the standard and lace-free versions, these skates are versatile enough for various terrains, both outdoors and indoors, and feature a gender-neutral design that emphasizes fun and aids in core strength and balance development. The skates are equipped with a 3WD composite frame that supports different wheel setups for improved stability and control, along with 72mm 80A wheels and SG3 bearings for a smooth skating experience, and include a removable safety brake to adapt to the skater’s developing skills. Durable, supportive, and with an easy size adjustment, the Rollerblade Microblade is a wise choice for parents looking to invest in a quality skate that promotes active fun and physical development.
For more information, read our comprehensive Rollerblade Microblade Review.
| Rollerblade Microblade Specifications | |
| Boot | Engineered Mesh |
| Frame | Monocoque, Composite |
| Wheels | 72mm 80A |
| Bearings | SG3 |
| Brake | Yes, Removable |
| US Sizes | Y11 – 1 | 2 – 5 | 5 – 8 |
| EU Sizes | 28 – 32 | 33 – 36 | 37 – 40 |
| Price | $109.00 – $119.00 |
Related: The 24 Best Scooters for Kids from Toddlers to Teens
Bont Scoot
The Bont Scoot is an excellent inline skate for kids, whether they’re beginners or looking to upgrade their current pair. Built around an anatomical foot last—a model shaped like an actual foot—these skates offer a more natural fit than many other children’s skates designed around regular shoe lasts. The Scoot features a sleek, streamlined shell that provides excellent ankle support, balance, and control, making it ideal for learning new skating skills or enhancing existing ones. These skates are crafted from premium materials with superior padding, offering exceptional support and comfort. They help reduce foot fatigue, allowing young skaters to enjoy longer rollerblading sessions. The skates come equipped with aluminum frames, 85A wheels, and ABEC7 bearings for a smooth, long-lasting ride.
| Bont Scoot Specifications | |
| Boot | Plastic |
| Frame | 2PF 6061 Unity aluminum frames |
| Wheels | Elemental 80mm 85A (EU 27-27, 29-30) Elemental 84mm 85A (EU 31-32, 33-34) |
| Bearings | ABEC 7 |
| Brake | In the Box |
| Bont Sizes | 9C – 10C | 11C – 12C | 13C – 13.5C| 1 – 2 |
| EU Sizes | 27 – 28 | 29 – 30 | 31 – 32 | 33 – 34 |
| Price | $129.99 |
Rollerblade Apex
The Rollerblade Apex inline skates are a premium choice for kids, combining quality, performance, and the ability to adjust through four sizes as your child grows, making them a versatile and durable option for young skaters. As a junior version of the esteemed Rollerblade Twister, the Apex is perfect for urban and freeskating, catering to all levels of skaters with its appealing design and top-selling status. Available in black and white, it offers no performance difference between colors, giving children the freedom to pick their preferred hue. Engineered for safety, the Apex features a vented shell for breathability, a high-quality liner for comfort, and is designed to provide excellent shock absorption, with frame length and wheel size adapting to the skater’s size for an optimized skating experience.
| Rollerblade Apex Specifications | |
| Boot | Plastic |
| Frame | Extruded Aluminum 207mm (US Y12 – 1) 219mm (US 2 – 5) 231mm (US 5.5 – 7.5) |
| Wheels | 68mm 80A (US Y12 – 1) 72mm 80A (US 2 – 5) 76mm 80A (US 5.5 – 7.5) |
| Bearings | SG7 |
| Brake | In the Box |
| US Sizes | Y12 – 1 | 2 – 5 | 5.5 – 7.5 |
| EU Sizes | 29 – 34 | 32 – 37 | 35 – 40 |
| Price | $139.00 |
Related: The 10 Best Ice Skates for Kids and Teens
K2 SK8 Hero BOA
The K2 SK8 Hero BOA adjustable inline skates outperform other K2 kids’ models with their comfortable fit, superior performance, and user-friendly features. Designed for long-term enjoyment, these skates adjust across five sizes, ensuring they grow with your child, and feature the K2 Original Softboot for a snug fit. The combination of responsive aluminum frames, larger 76mm wheels, and ABEC 5 bearings smooths out rough surfaces and increases speed, enhancing the skating experience. Additionally, the BOA turn-dial speed lacing system makes them easy to put on and take off, a convenience appreciated by both kids and parents.
| K2 SK8 Hero BOA Specifications | |
| Boot | Soft Boot |
| Frame | Monocoque Stamped Aluminum |
| Wheels | 76mm 80A |
| Bearings | ABEC 5 |
| Brake | Yes, Removable |
| US Sizes | 1 – 5 | 4 – 8 |
| EU Sizes | 32 – 37 | 35 – 40 |
| Charm Price | $149.95 – $159.95 |
Related: Best Bikes for Kids from Toddlers to Teens
K2 Charm BOA
The K2 Charm BOA skates for girls offer enhanced comfort, performance, and ease of use compared to basic models, featuring responsive aluminum frames and larger wheels for smoother rides over rough surfaces. With the ability to adjust up to five sizes, they’re built for growing feet, ensuring long-term use and enjoyment. The skates combine the K2 Original Softboot design for a snug fit with a BOA turn-dial speed lacing system for effortless adjustments by kids and parents alike. Equipped with 76mm wheels and ABEC 5 bearings, these skates provide a fast and smooth skating experience, making them a top choice for young skaters seeking both performance and convenience.
| K2 Charm BOA Specifications | |
| Boot | Soft Boot |
| Frame | Monocoque Stamped Aluminum |
| Wheels | 76mm 80A |
| Bearings | ABEC 5 |
| Brake | Yes, Removable |
| US Sizes | 1 – 5 | 4 – 8 |
| EU Sizes | 32 – 37 | 35 – 40 |
| Charm Price | $159.95 |
Related: The Best Safety Pads for Kids
Flying Eagle S6 Speed
The Flying Eagle S6 Speed adjustable junior inline skates are a great mix of semi-race and freeskate features, perfect for kids seeking both support and control. These adjustable skates fit a range of five sizes and feature a unique, glow-in-the-dark cuff, with wheel sizes varying by skate size—3x90mm for smaller and 3x100mm for larger sizes, all with Abec 7 bearings for added speed. As the only three-wheel option on our list, the Flying Eagle S6 offers superior speed and maneuverability on rough surfaces, though they may present a learning curve for beginners. They are recommended for young skaters who are already confident on their wheels and ready for the next level of skating.
| Flying Eagle S6 Speed Specifications | |
| Boot | Plastic |
| Frame | CNC Aluminum |
| Wheels | 90mm 88A (Y10.5 – 1) 100mm 88A (2 – 5) |
| Bearings | ABEC 5 |
| Brake | N/A |
| US Sizes | Y10.5 – 1 | 2 – 5 |
| EU Sizes | 28 – 32 | 33 – 37 |
| Price | $160.00 |
Related: The 5 Best Skate Helmets for Kids
Razors Genesys Junior
The Razors Genesys Junior skates, inspired by the adult Razors Genesys line, are perfect for kids eager to explore aggressive inline skating. These adjustable skates can shift through four sizes, ensuring durability and performance as your child grows. Adjusting the size is straightforward: use the included hex key to modify the skate’s length based on the soulplate’s size indicator, maintaining balance and proper center of gravity. The design includes a wide, replaceable soulplate with a groove for easier grinding, matching the groove on the Ground Control Junior UFS frame. Additionally, the liner mirrors those in adult skates, complete with a heel shock absorber for safer landings.
The Genesys Junior skates come in two styles: a flat setup with 4x56mm wheels for beginners, offering speed and easier control, and an anti-rocker setup for experienced skaters, with two 56mm wheels on the outside and smaller wheels inside for grinding tricks. The flat setup is ideal for kids just starting with aggressive skating, while the anti-rocker setup, which can be upgraded to with aftermarket wheels, is perfect for those ready to learn tricks at the skatepark.
| Razors Genesys Junior Specifications | |
| Boot | Plastic |
| Frame | Ground Control Junior UFS |
| Wheels | 4x56mm 90A 2x56mm 90A, Antirocker |
| Bearings | ABEC 3 |
| Brake | No |
| US Sizes | 3 – 6 |
| EU Sizes | 36 – 39 |
| Price | $179.00 – $189.00 |
Related: The 17 Best Roller Skates for Kids and Teens to Roll
USD Transformer
Aggressive inline skating, known for its grinds, jumps, and slides, offers kids an intense and fun challenge, and the USD Transformer adjustable aggressive inline skates are ideal for youngsters eager to dive into this sport. Designed with durability in mind, the USD Transformer features a sturdy boot, supportive cuff, and built-in liners that ensure comfort during high-impact moves. Plus, it’s size-adjustable, growing with your child and eliminating the need for frequent replacements. Starting with a regular skate like the USD Transformer allows kids to learn the basics and gain the confidence needed for more complex tricks and moves in aggressive inline skating. Equipped with Kizer Junior UFS Frames and an anti-rocker setup, it combines 57mm USD wheels and 100A grind wheels for the perfect balance of speed, stability, and grinding capability.
| USD Transformer Specifications | |
| Boot | Plastic |
| Frame | Kizer UFS |
| Wheels | 57mm 88A on Outside 100A Anti-Rocker on Inside |
| Bearings | Wicked ABEC 5 |
| Brake | No |
| US Sizes | 1.5 – 3.5 | 4.5 – 7 |
| EU Sizes | 33 – 36 | 37 – 40 |
| Price | $199.95 |
Related: The 10 Best Inline Skates for Women
USD Glitch
The USD Glitch, the perfect adjustable inline skate for kids passionate about aggressive skating. This skate stands out with its blend of speed, durability, and an adjustable fit to accommodate growing feet, making it a favorite among active youngsters. It shines in various skating styles, from freestyle to park skating, thanks to its Kizer Unibody soulframe for effortless grinding, a low profile for quick slides, and an additional toe strap for enhanced control. Equipped with 58mm/61mm 90A USD wheels and WICKED Abec 7 bearings, the Glitch offers a smooth and speedy ride. Designed with the future of skating in mind, it provides an adjustable, high-quality experience that grows with the skater, ensuring years of fun and development.
| USD Glitch Specifications | |
| Boot | Glass-Fiber Reinforced Plastic |
| Frame | Kizer Unibody Frame |
| Wheels | USD 58mm 90A(Sizes 31 – 34) USD 61mm 90A (Sizes 35 – 38) |
| Bearings | Wicked ABEC7 |
| Brake | No |
| US Sizes | Y13.0 – 3.0 | 4.0 – 6.0 |
| EU Sizes | 33 – 36 | 37 – 40 |
| Price | $199.99 |
Powerslide Accel Race 84
The Powerslide Accel Race 84 Inline Skates are ideal for kids beginning their speed skating adventures, offering high-quality features at a reasonable price. Constructed from dual layers of carbon, glass-fiber, and Kevlar, the lightweight shell delivers durability and responsive skating. The stylish nano-leather uppers are comfortable and can be heat-molded for a customized fit, complemented by a micro-fiber lined built-in liner for extra comfort. These skates are equipped with versatile frames made from CNC-machined 6061 aircraft aluminum. They come standard with 4x84mm UnderCover Raw 85A wheels but can also fit 3x90mm wheels to enhance speed and agility. The performance of these skates is boosted by UnderCover Raw Wheels and Wicked ABEC9 Carbon Pro Steel Bearings, which ensure excellent grip and smooth rolling with little resistance.
| Powerslide Accel Race 84 Specifications | |
| Boot | Carbon, Glass-Fiber, and Kevlar Shell, Fixed Non-Removable Liners |
| Frame | Powerslide Core Performance 165mm Mount 6061 Aircraft Aluminum |
| Wheels | Undercover Raw 84mm 85A |
| Bearings | Wicked ABEC 9 |
| Brake | No |
| US Sizes | 3 – 4 |
| EU Sizes | 33 – 36 | 37 – 40 |
| Price | $499.95 |
Why Trust Big Wheel Blading?
I started skating in 1989 and have spent most of my time in the inline skating industry. I’ve handled nearly every type of skate, from those designed for kids to those for adults. My career has included roles at skating magazines, managing various skating brands, and working closely with companies, manufacturers, and skaters.
This wealth of experience has given me a deep understanding of how skates have developed over the years, including their features, strengths, and weaknesses. I know which brands are reliable and which ones to steer clear of. With this background, I’m well-equipped to offer expert advice in this buyer’s guide, highlighting the best inline skates for kids from the most trusted brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our FAQ section to find out how to determine the correct size and ensure a proper fit for your child’s skates. You’ll also learn about the health benefits of skating for your child. Rest assured, your kids will be getting plenty of exercise while out having fun on their skates!
At what age is it safe for children to start inline skating?
Children can start inline skating as early as 3 to 5 once they have developed enough balance and coordination. At this age, building confidence and ensuring the experience is fun and not intimidating is essential. Skates explicitly designed for younger children usually feature adjustable sizing, lower balance points, and more robust stability features to help with learning. Starting with shorter, supervised sessions in a safe environment, such as a smooth, flat surface free from traffic, helps kids gradually develop their skills.
How can I ensure that I choose the right size of inline skates for my children?
When buying skates, many people just choose their kid’s shoe size. But it’s better to measure your child’s feet to ensure a perfect fit. Have them stand on a hard surface with their heels against a wall for a more precise measurement. Be sure to measure both feet and use the longer heel-to-toe measurement as your guide.
How do you determine that you bought your child the appropriate size inline skates?
Your child’s toes should not be pressed against the front of the skate or feel cramped. They can slightly brush against the front of the skate because the heels will settle back while in the skating position to make more room for the toes. Inline skates offer a similar fit to shoes, and you should expect some break-in time for the skates to adjust to the shape of your foot. During the break-in period, your child may experience pressure points, but these will go away after skating a few times.
What are the health benefits of inline skating for children?
Skating is a healthy activity for people of all ages that can improve balance, agility, strength, and endurance, all while having fun doing it. It is a perfect low-impact exercise for individuals and families who want to stay healthy and active. Medical research shows that skating ranks third among physical fitness activities. Its benefits include stamina, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, balance, weight control, muscle definition, digestion, and sleep.
What inline skates should be avoided for kids?
When choosing skates, there are a few types to steer clear of. Avoid low-quality brands and plastic skates with an unusual wheel setup—one wheel in front and two in the back. These skates don’t turn properly and can lead to bad habits that don’t help when learning how to inline or roller skate. Also, avoid 3-in-1 skates that let you switch between quad, inline, or ice configurations. These tend to be gimmicky, low-quality products that won’t make skating enjoyable for your child.
Another common mistake is buying too large skates, hoping the child will grow into them. Oversized skates can be unsafe, as they offer less stability and control, increasing the risk of accidents and causing blisters. Instead, opt for adjustable skates, which can be resized to fit your child as they grow. This ensures a proper fit and saves you the trouble of purchasing new skates frequently.
Recommended Accessories
Inline skating is a lot of fun, but kids can sometimes take a tumble, especially when they’re just starting out. That’s why we strongly recommend getting a helmet and safety pads for your child. Below, I’ve included a few suggestions, but if you’d like to explore more options and get a more detailed list, you can check out our guides on the best skate helmets and safety pads for kids!
Triple Eight Lil 8 Helmet
The Triple Eight Lil 8 Helmet is an excellent helmet for beginners at a great price. This helmet is dual-certified for safety and uses a high-impact EPS Foam Liner for maximum protection against big falls and multiple collisions.
Smith Scabs Safety Gear Set
Smith Scabs are the ultimate pads for protection, providing a flexible, safe pad that works time and time again. The Youth 3-Pack includes a set of knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards sized for young skaters. Velcro closure allows easy entry, and the absorbent slow memory foam and hard caps protect the knees and elbows. A hard plastic brace protects wrists from impact.
Spofine Safety Gear Set W/ Helmet
The Spofine Protective Gear Bundle includes a set of knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, and a helmet. Available in four different colors, Spofine offers sizes for kids, teenagers, and adults. Hook and loop closure allows easy entry, and the slow absorbent foam and hard caps protect the knees and elbows. A rigid plastic brace protects wrists from impact, while the helmet protects the body’s most precious commodity.
Peyorom Skate Bag
The Peyorom Skate Bag is a great low-cost bag for transporting and storing skates and gear. It is made of a robust and durable Oxford fabric that is waterproof and tear-resistant. In addition, the material is easy to clean. The skate bags have three pockets for storing skates and gear.
