The Best Roller Skates for Beginners Guide features the the best roller skates for different budgets from the most trusted roller skating brands.
We independently selected all the products in our best roller skates for beginners guide and only recommend skates we genuinely believe in. If you click our links, we may earn a commission through affiliate programs at no cost to you.
Your Guide to the Best Beginner Roller Skates
Roller skating is an absolute blast! There’s nothing quite like the thrill of rolling down the streets with the wind in your face, cruising and spinning around the rink, or tackling obstacles at the skatepark. I’ve spent my life on skates and have been lucky to work with some of the top skaters over the past 30 years. Through this, I’ve learned a lot about the best roller skates for different types of skating. Now, I want to share my expert knowledge to help you make an informed choice when buying your first pair of roller skates.
Choosing the right roller skates for beginners can be a daunting task, given the wide array of options available. To ease your decision-making process, I’ve meticulously curated a list of high-quality skates from reputable brands. What’s more, this article is regularly updated to ensure you have the most recent and relevant information at your fingertips. If you’re purchasing skates for children, the models listed here are suitable for teens and adults. For options tailored for toddlers and younger children, refer to our trusted Best Roller Skates for Kids Guide.
How to Choose the Right Size Roller Skates
Using the Mondopoint System and Wall Method for a Perfect Fit
To find the perfect fit for your roller skates, start by measuring your foot. Here’s a straightforward approach: use the Mondopoint system, which measures your foot in centimeters to determine your shoe size. This system is widely used for its accuracy in sizing different types of footwear. Slight differences in measurement, even a few millimeters, can affect how your skates fit, so precision is vital.
Here’s how to do it: Wear the socks you’ll skate in to ensure accuracy. Stand with your heel against a wall on a piece of paper. Mark the longest part of your foot on the paper, from heel to toe, and then measure the distance in centimeters. This measurement is your Mondo shoe size. For a clear visual guide and detailed instructions on how to trace and measure your foot, look at this article, which provides step-by-step images.
When selecting roller skates, it’s crucial for beginners not to rely solely on their standard shoe size due to variations in skate sizing across different brands. Instead, compare your mondo foot measurement with the size chart provided expressly for the skate model you’re interested in. Brands often include recommendations on whether to choose a size larger or smaller based on their fit.
It’s also wise to avoid general advice that suggests simply adjusting your shoe size to find your skate size. This approach can be inaccurate and result in poorly fitting skates. Read customer reviews to get a real sense of how a particular model fits. These often provide insights into whether the skates tend to run true to size, small or large, helping you make a more informed decision.
The Difference Between Aluminum and Nylon Plates
Plates are one of the key components beginners need to know about when deciding on roller skates, serving as the chassis or frame that connects the boot to the wheels and trucks. Essentially, the plate is what the boots are mounted on, and it holds all the other parts together, including the wheels, bearings, axles, and sometimes the toe stops. Plates are crucial for the structural integrity of the skate and play a significant role in how the skates perform under different conditions.
The two types of plates you’ll encounter in this guide, aluminum and nylon, come with distinct advantages and considerations. Understanding the differences between these plate types enables skaters to make informed decisions based on their skating style, experience level, and specific needs. Most of the skates featured here are designed for upgradability, reassuring that you can start with a skate that suits your budget and later enhance it with a metal frame. In the following sections, we delve into the specifics of each plate type, guiding you to choose the right one for your roller skating adventures.
Aluminum Plates
Aluminum plates for roller skates are known for their strength and durability. These plates are made from metal, making them more rigid and sturdy than other materials. This rigidity provides skaters a stable foundation, enhancing precision and control during skating. Aluminum plates are especially popular among speed skaters, park skaters, and those engaging in roller derby because they can withstand the high-impact nature of these sports without bending or breaking.
Nylon Plates
Nylon plates are crafted from lightweight synthetic polymer, making them a popular choice for beginners and casual skaters. Their primary advantage is their weight; they are significantly lighter than aluminum plates, which can make a substantial difference in overall skate weight and ease of movement. Nylon plates offer enough resilience and flexibility for recreational skating and basic maneuvers, making them suitable for those who skate primarily for fun or fitness.
Note: You may see low-end skates with hard plastic plates while searching online. Avoid purchasing skates with plastic plates, as they are not considered safe or strong enough to support the weight of heavier skaters.
Low-Cut vs. High-Top Roller Skate Boots
The boots of roller skates for beginners come in two main styles: low-cut and high-top. Low-cut boots, similar in design to regular athletic shoes, end below the ankle. They are ideal for roller derby and speed skating because they allow maximum ankle mobility, enabling quick and agile movements. On the other hand, high-top boots extend well above the ankle, sometimes up to the lower calf. These are great for outdoor recreational and park skating as they provide significant ankle support and stability, helping to properly align the foot and leg.
While the height of the boot can influence your skating style, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both low and high-top boots are suitable for learning to skate outdoors or at the rink, and many skaters don’t notice a significant difference in performance. High-top boots may offer an added sense of security for individuals with weaker ankles, though they won’t completely prevent ankle twists.
Note: Most high-top skates in this guide come with outdoor wheels, while low-cut skates generally have indoor wheels.
Understanding Wheel Size and Durometer
Wheel Size
Smaller wheels, typically between 54 mm and 59mm, are designed for quick acceleration and greater agility. They are perfect for artistic or indoor skating, where precise movements and tight turns are common. On the other hand, larger wheels, measuring 60mm and above, are better suited for outdoor skating. These wheels provide smoother rides over uneven surfaces and help maintain momentum, making them ideal for cruising on sidewalks and roads.
Wheel Durometer
Softer wheels fall between 78A and 85A on the durometer scale. These wheels are excellent for outdoor skating as they offer superior grip and can absorb shocks from rougher terrains, providing a more comfortable ride. Conversely, harder wheels, with a hardness rating of 88A and above, are preferred for indoor skating. Harder wheels have less grip, which reduces rolling resistance on smooth surfaces like indoor floors, allowing skaters to maintain higher speeds with less effort.
Our Picks of the Best Inline Skates for Beginners
Let’s explore our top choices for the best roller skates for beginners. We feature our favorite skates across various price ranges and disciplines and categorize them by indoor and outdoor roller skates.
Best Indoor Roller Skates for Beginners
When choosing indoor roller skates for beginners, it’s important to understand the key difference between indoor and outdoor skates: the hardness of the wheels, measured in durometer. Generally, derby and speed skates feature harder wheels (over 88a), better suited for smooth indoor surfaces like rink floors. On the other hand, most recreational skates come stock with softer outdoor wheels that absorb the rougher textures of sidewalks and streets. The good news is that all outdoor skates we recommend further down this list can also be used for indoor skating by purchasing aftermarket wheels. With an extra set of wheels, you can easily switch between harder wheels for indoor skating and softer ones for outdoor use.
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Sure-Grip Rock GT-50
The Sure-Grip GT-50 roller skates are an excellent choice for beginners, especially for those interested in speed skating or starting in roller derby. It has a low-cut design, similar to the Riedell R3, and is great for rink skating. They’re equipped with 62mm Sure-Grip Swirl wheels, ABEC 5 bearings, and durable ROCK nylon plates.
The vinyl boots are vegan-friendly and offer a comfortable, snug fit with their cushioned padding and precise lacing system. A key feature is the adjustable and removable toe stops, which can be tailored to each skater’s preference. Although they’re non-leather and don’t provide high ankle support, many find them a perfect fit right out of the box. For those planning to skate outdoors, it might be a good idea to invest in wheels specifically designed for outdoor use.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 1 – 15 |
| Mondo Size | 20.3 – 31.5 |
| Price | $155.00 – $159.99 |
Riedell R3
The Riedell R3 is among the most popular low-cut roller skates for beginners just starting indoor roller skating, mainly because it offers excellent performance for its price. It’s made with tough vinyl material and has a plate (the part connecting the boot to the wheels) made of nylon. Despite their sturdy design, these skates are meant to feel like your favorite sneakers, providing a comfy fit thanks to the added padding inside.
The PowerDyne Thrust Plate is lightweight and works well for beginners. However, if you’re considering getting into roller derby as a serious hobby, you might eventually want to upgrade to a stronger plate. The skates have 62x43mm 95A Radar Cayman wheels on the bottom with ABEC 5 bearings, ideal for indoor surfaces. So, if you plan to skate outside on rougher grounds, you might want to think about getting softer wheels for a smoother ride.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 1 – 14 |
| Mondo Size | 19.8 – 30.8 |
| Price | $155.00 |
Bont ProStar Prodigy
The Bont Prostar Prodigy emerges as a distinctive low-profile skate that can be heat-molded for the perfect fit. It artfully balances agility, coziness, and robust support. The boot is grounded on a solid fiberglass base, wrapped in a sleek Microfiber lining, enhanced by a 6mm innersole, and padded with plush memory foam. For added comfort, the design incorporates a roomy toe box and a removable rubber bumper for toe protection.
Priced surprisingly affordably for its high-quality make, this skate is an ideal pick for beginners diving into derby, outdoor, or park skating. With just a quick 10-minute blast from a hairdryer, these skates mold snugly to the foot. Underneath, a lightweight Prodigy plate, reinforced with fiberglass and designed for 20-degree action, supports Ballistic 60x40mm 92A wheels and ABEC 5 bearings, ensuring a smooth and agile ride.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 3 – 12.5 |
| Mondo Size | 20.4 – 31.5 |
| Price | $199.00 |
Related: What are the Best Roller Skating Socks?
Antik Skyhawk
The Antik Skyhawk Indoor Roller Skate is perfect for beginners and intermediate skaters in various disciplines, such as roller derby, casual skating, or dance. The boot, designed with your comfort and protection in mind, is made from durable microfiber and features an abrasion-resistant toe cap and a heel with shock-absorbing foam.
These skates come with the PowerDyne Thrust Plate, a lightweight nylon frame with a 15° kingpin angle for agile movements, and high-quality urethane cushions. The Sonar Aura Wheels, designed for indoor use, provide an outstanding balance of grip and slide and are complemented by smooth ABEC-5 bearings. A Gumball Toe Stop offers reliable stopping power, making the Antik Skyhawk a solid choice for skaters developing their skills.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 4 – 12 |
| Mondo Size | 22.8 – 29.5 |
| Price | $269.00 |
Sure-Grip Rebel Avanti
The Sure-Grip Rebel Avanti is a high-performance, low-cut leather roller skate that’s an ideal choice for those keen on getting into derby skating. With the right wheels it’s also fantastic for outdoor activities like trail skating. The design features a lightweight yet durable Sure-Grip Avanti aluminum plate with a 10-degree steel kingpin, blending seamlessly with the stylish, sneaker-inspired Rebel leather boot.
For speed, these skates come with Fugitive 62mm 92A wheels and ABEC 7 bearings, offering fast and smooth skating. Impressively, these boots are comfortable and stable right from the start, requiring minimal break-in time. With these features, the Sure-Grip Rebel Avanti earns its place among our top recommended roller skates for beginners.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 4 – 14 |
| Mondo Size | 20.4 – 31.5 |
| Price | $275.00 |
Outdoor Roller Skates For Beginners Under $200
For our selection of the best roller skates for beginners under $200, we selected ten of the top skates on the market that provide good value and excellent quality. These skates are perfect for those who don’t want to spend too much money but want a durable, safe, and long-lasting product. Our favorite skates in this range are the Chaya vintage with the mid-cut cuff; the Riedell Orbit is an exceptional choice with its recently lowered price, and we love the colors and the leather boot of the Riedell Crew.
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Moxi Rainbow Rider
The Moxi Rainbow Rider is an eye-catching high-top quad skate, perfect for beginners or those who skate occasionally outdoors. Normally priced at $115.00, they can often be found on sale for under $100, making them an excellent, budget-friendly option in the Moxi lineup. This skate is a great way for those new to roller skating to start without spending too much. It’s built with a sturdy vinyl boot and a cushioned liner for support. Unlike the suede in higher-end Moxi models, the Rainbow Rider uses synthetic materials, which may slightly lessen comfort and breathability. Its PVC sole is more durable and water-resistant than wood, making it a practical choice.
While not suitable for skate parks, they’re great for beginners in outdoor or rink skating. You might want to upgrade the wheels for better performance on different surfaces. They come with a strong die-cast aluminum plate, 58mm 82A wheels, ABEC 5 bearings, and an adjustable toe stop, all contributing to a stable and enjoyable ride. While they’re not for advanced skaters doing intense tricks, the Rainbow Rider is an excellent choice for newcomers, offering a good mix of quality and value, and securing its place on our list of best roller skates for beginners.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 1 – 10 |
| Mondo Size | 19.8 – 27.1 |
| Price | $89.00 – $115.00 |
Related: 42 Awesome Gift Ideas for Roller Skaters
Chaya Vintage
The Chaya Vintage roller skates offer a mix of fashion and practicality, perfect for beginners who want good quality without spending a lot. These skates have a unique mid-cut, sneaker-like style with a retro flair, making them great for everything from casual outdoor skating to dance moves. The skates are as eye-catching as they are ethical, made from vegan-friendly PU-nubuck leather for comfort.
They are built with a lightweight Chaya Galaxy Evo aluminum plate with a 10-degree action, and they feature Chaya Spectrum 59x38mm 78A wheels with Wicked ABEC 7 bearings, ensuring a smooth ride. For those who like to fine-tune their skates, the Chaya Pocket Skate Tool is a handy accessory for adjusting trucks and toe stops. The durability and comfort of the Chaya Vintage make them more than just a beginner’s skate; they’re a long-term companion for your skating journey, whether you’re cruising city paths or practicing at the rink.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 5 – 12 |
| Mondo Size | 23.0 – 29.8 |
| Price | $98.97 – $149.95 |
Moxi Beach Bunny
The Moxi Beach Bunny roller skates stand out with their high-quality, vegan-friendly build, combining fashion, value, and sturdiness. These skates come in a variety of pastel-colored, strong PVC boots, lined with a soft, moisture-wicking Dri-Lex material for maximum comfort on every ride. They’re perfect for beginners, not just for their performance but also for their trendy look, sure to draw compliments wherever you go.
The Beach Bunny is equipped with a PowerDyne Marvel aluminum plate, featuring a 10-degree kingpin and an adjustable toe stop. It rolls smoothly on Moxi Beach Bunny 58x33mm 78A wheels with ABEC 3 bearings, ideal for cruising on boardwalks or skating at rinks. These skates also come in a cool box, complete with a skate key for easy adjustments and maintenance. Wearing these skates is bound to bring a smile to your face!
| Specifications | |
| Size | 1 – 10 |
| Mondo Size | 19.8 – 27.1 |
| Price | $109.99 – $169.00 |
Chaya Melrose Deluxe
The Chaya Melrose Deluxe is a standout choice for those new to roller skating, offering a top-notch, high-top skate experience at a competitive price. Made entirely from vegan-friendly materials, these skates feature a strong vinyl boot with internal cushioning, ensuring excellent ankle support. The boot is mounted on the Galaxy Evo aluminum cast plate, which includes a height-adjustable toe stop for a customized skating experience. These skates are equipped with Sugar Rush 62mm 78A wheels and high-performance Wicked ABEC 7 bearings, providing a smooth and comfortable ride over various distances. Not only do they perform well, but they also offer a stylish look that enhances any skater’s appearance. Their sturdy build and easy glide straight out of the box make them one of our top recommendations for beginners looking for quality roller skates.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 5 – 9 |
| Mondo Size | 22.9 – 26.8 |
| Price | $99.97 – $149.95 |
Riedell Orbit
The Riedell Orbit is a colorful and affordable outdoor skate that builds on the design of Riedell’s model 111 boot, known for providing excellent ankle support. While the PVC boot of the Orbit is quite stiff, it has internal cushioning and a soft footbed that makes it comfortable to wear right away. These skates are great for beginners, as skaters often quickly see an improvement in their skills when using them.
With a Marvel die-cast aluminum plate and 10° kingpins, the skates are fitted with 57x32mm 85A Sonar Zen wheels and bolstered by ABEC 5 bearings. This combination guarantees stability and agility, delivering a secure, quick, and seamless glide across rinks, trails, or city streets. Completing its design, the Orbit comes with an adjustable, easily replaceable toe stopper, further extending its usability and lifespan.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 4 – 11 |
| Mondo Size | 22.4 – 28.1 |
| Price | $119.00 |
VNLA Parfait
The VNLA Parfait is a stylish high-top roller skate designed for newcomers. Its look can easily be likened to the popular Moxi Beach Bunnies. The internal padding of its microfiber boot ensures a cozy feel, while its thick, robust tongue adds to its durability.
Attached to this comfy boot is a lightweight aluminum plate with customizable rubber toe stops and wheels sized 58x32mm with a 78A hardness rating, coupled with ABEC 7 bearings. Given its quality features and mid-tier pricing, the VNLA Parfait stands out as a top pick for beginners in search of both comfort and quality in their roller skates.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 6 – 11 |
| Mondo Size | 24.4 – 28.1 |
| Price | $159.99 |
Jackson Finesse
The Jackson Finesse is a beginner-friendly, vegan vinyl skate, perfect for outdoor excursions and rink sessions. Its interior boasts plush memory foam padding around the ankle and an antibacterial lining for added comfort. This boot is paired with a durable nylon Pilot Viper Zytel Plate and is complemented by Atom Pulse Lite 62x33mm 78A wheels and Bionic ABEC 7 bearings.
Renowned for their quality, the Atom Pulse wheels rank among the top outdoor wheels available. Despite their affordability, these skates rival the performance of much pricier models and customized setups. With reliable ankle support, the Jackson Finesse rightfully secures its spot on the list of top roller skates for novices.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 4 – 10 |
| Mondo Size (Colored Boots) | 22.0 – 26.8 |
| Mondo Size (Black Boots) | 23.6 – 30.00 |
| Price | $159.95 |
Related: The 29 Best Roller Skates for Adults to Enjoy
Sure-Grip Fame
The Sure-Grip Fame boasts both durability and comfort, making it an ideal choice for newcomers keen on dance, rink skating, or outdoor rides. With its plush interior padding, the Fame boot provides instant comfort right out of the box and its snug fit enhances dance routines and steps.
Moreover, the eco-conscious Fame boot is crafted from PVC and is equipped with a resilient ROCK nylon plate, arguably among the finest nylon plates on beginner skates. Its 65x36mm 78A Boardwalk Wheels, paired with ABEC 5 bearings, ensure a smooth outdoor skating experience, gliding effortlessly over irregularities. The Sure-Grip Fame stands out as a robust, comfy, and agile skate, earning its spot on our top picks for roller skating novices.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 1 – 14 |
| Mondo Size | 20.3 – 31.5 |
| Price | $165.00 – $179.00 |
Moxi Panther
The Moxi Panther offers both affordability and elegance, blending the robust, abrasion-resistant suede of Moxi’s premium Jack boots with the hardware of their Beach Bunny and Jungle lines. Noteworthy for its durability and superior ankle support, it stands as Moxi’s most wallet-friendly suede option, ideal for novice recreational and park enthusiasts.
It features a Dri-lex microfiber liner, which ensures moisture control, keeping your feet refreshed. Its cushioned tongue, contoured collar, and padding promise utmost comfort and ankle stability. These high-top outdoor quads are equipped with Moxi Classic 58x33mm 78A wheels and ABEC 5 bearings, ensuring a fluid skating experience. Given their value, the Panthers earn their spot among the best roller skates for beginners.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 1 – 10 |
| Mondo Size | 19.8 – 27.1 |
| Price | $169.00 |
Related: The Best Slide Blocks for Roller Skates
Riedell Crew
The Riedell Crew is a fresh and stylish update of the classic and durable 120 boot, catching the eye with a range of vibrant colors. These high-top leather skates hug the ankle snugly and feature a cushioned footbed for extra comfort. Lightweight and nimble, they’re ideal for a variety of skating activities, including recreational, park, and dance skating, and are priced attractively for those new to the sport.
A key feature is the moisture-wicking lining, which keeps your feet comfortable during various activities, from jumps and spins to complex dance moves. The leather boot strikes a perfect balance between softness and support, and is paired with a lightweight Powerdyne Thrust nylon plate. For a smooth skating experience, the skates are equipped with Sonar Zen 62mm 85a outdoor wheels and ABEC 5 Bearings, ensuring a smooth glide every time.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 4 – 11 |
| Mondo Size | 22.4 – 28.1 |
| Price | $199.00 |
Jackson Vista
The Jackson Vista skates are a great combination of style and value, perfect for outdoor recreational skating. They come with lightweight nylon plates that fit true to size and enhance your skating performance. The high-top boots are made of luxurious microfiber suede and are firm yet flexible, offering a comfortable fit. These skates feature memory foam padding around the ankles to prevent discomfort and provide support. The foam-backed tongue is a nice touch, helping to avoid lace bite.
They’re ready for a smooth ride right out of the box, making them ideal for beginners. The adjustable toe stopper is a handy feature that I find especially useful. Underneath, the skates are equipped with Atom Pulse 62x33mm 78A Wheels and ABEC 7 bearings, mounted on a Viper Nylon Plate for a soft and effortless glide. Overall, the Jackson Vista is not only a fantastic choice for those starting out but also great for quickly improving your skating skills.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 4 – 10 |
| Mondo Size | 22.0 – 26.8 |
| Price | $199.00 |
Best Outdoor Roller Skates for Beginners Over $200
The quality of beginner roller skates significantly improves in the over $200 range, thanks to their superior components. In this bracket, all the boots are made from suede, except for the black vegan-friendly Chuffed Wanderer model. Our top pick in this category is the Sure-Grip Boardwalk, which, at $229 (on sale for $129), is similar to the wildly popular higher-priced Moxi Lolly at a more affordable price. However, if you want skates to start exploring skateparks with, then the Bont Parkstar or Chuffed Wanderer are excellent choices.
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Sure-Grip Boardwalk
The Sure-Grip Boardwalk skates masterfully combine fashion and cost-effectiveness. Mirroring the style of the pricier Moxi Lolly, they provide a similar skating experience at a more accessible price point. For those seeking quality skates without the steep $369 tag of the Lolly, the Boardwalk stands as an ideal alternative and can be found on sale for as low as $129 for the basic model (Regularly $229) and $239 for the plus model. These skates are crafted with a laid-back, beach-inspired design, offering both visual appeal and sturdy functionality.
A standout aspect is the nylon rock plate, securely riveted to the boot, which includes adjustable toe stops. The plate’s 10-degree angle delivers a level of stability that often outperforms other renowned skate brands. The skates are equipped with Sure-Grip 57x33mm 82A outdoor wheels and ABEC 3 bearings, ensuring a smooth ride. These fashionable suede high-tops, available in a variety of striking colors, are not only eye-catching but also come highly recommended for their blend of style, performance, and affordability. They are an excellent choice for beginners in roller skating, although they are not suitable for aggressive or derby skating.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 4 – 15 |
| Mondo Size | 22.9 – 32.3 |
| Price | $129.00 – $239.00 |
Related: The 24 Best Scooters for Kids from Toddlers to Teens
Bont Parkstar
The Bont Parkstar is a standout skate known for its comfort, lightness, and stability. It fits snugly around your ankles for great support, whether you’re at the skatepark, on a trail, or gliding around the rink. Made from tough reinforced suede with internal padding, a 23mm raised heel, and a roomy toe box, these skates are built for comfort and performance. You can even heat-mold them with a hairdryer in about 10 minutes for a custom fit. Designed to last, the Parkstar withstands the demands of skatepark use with its replaceable rubber toe guard that resists wear and tear.
Many skaters invest in two pairs of Bonts – one for park skating and another for casual rides – thanks to their durability. These skates also feature an aluminum truck with a 20-degree kingpin angle for sharp turns and stable high-speed skating. They ride on Street Flow 58x32mm 89a wheels with ABEC 5 bearings, providing a smooth and fast experience, surprising given the wheel’s softness. The Bont Parkstar is available in multiple colors and color combinations, catering to a wide range of skaters.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 3 – 13 |
| Mondo Size | 22.4 – 28.1 |
| Price | $309.00 |
Chuffed Wanderer
Discover the Chuffed Wanderer roller skates, where style meets durability. These skates, crafted from fine suede, are perfect for cruising down streets, spinning in parks, or dancing at the rink. They offer immediate comfort with their cushioned lining, eliminating the need for a lengthy break-in period. Available in a range of colors, including a standout black version made with vegan-friendly microfiber, they cater to all style preferences. Each pair features a solid aluminum plate, an adjustable toe stop for personalized comfort, and 68mm polyurethane wheels (82a hardness) with ABEC 7 bearings for smooth skating. Durable and dependable, these skates are designed for enjoyable rides and ensure a fit for every skater.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 4 – 10 |
| Mondo Size | 23.0 – 30.0 |
| Price | $330.00 |
Moxi Lolly
Slide into the world of skating with the sleek Moxi Lolly skates. Available in nine dazzling colors, they’re a delightful blend of chic design, comfort, and quality, fit for the rink and outdoor adventures. Crafted from plush cowhide suede, they promise a comfortable fit that molds to your feet over time.
They are priced a bit higher than others, but they’re worth investment for their superior comfort and durability. These skates have a sturdy Powerdyne Nylon Thrust Plate, smooth Moxi Gummy Outdoor Wheels, and reliable ABEC 5 bearings, which are ideal for rhythm and jam skating. And for a touch of elegance, each pair is packaged in a unique, vintage-style suitcase box, complete with maintenance tools and instructions. It’s not just skating; it’s an experience with style.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 4 – 13 |
| Fit | 22.4 – 30.5 |
| Price | $299.00 – $369.00 |
Related: The 17 Best Roller Skates for Kids and Teens to Roll With
Chaya Karma Pro
In their third generation, the Chaya Karma Pro are Chaya’s premier park skates. These skates feature durable, lightweight boots from a glass-fiber reinforced composite, genuine leather, and nano-leather. They are equipped with the innovative Shari Plate, which uses a dual-point mounting system similar to those found in inline skates, allowing adjustable positioning of the plate both front-to-back and side-to-side.
The skates include Chaya’s new XTNDR trucks, which are made of solid forged aluminum with customizable replaceable chrome steel axles to adjust the width of the wheelbase. Additionally, the Shari Plate features unique pre-installed asymmetrical grind blocks for enhanced performance. Completing the setup are the adjustable Chaya Controller toe stops and the 100A Firebolt Wheels, which roll smoothly on Wicked ABEC-9 Bearings.
| Specifications | |
| Size | 5 – 12 |
| Mondo Size | 22.9 – 29.6 |
| Price | $395.95 |
Recommended Accessories
Beginner roller skaters should prioritize safety gear like helmets, knee, elbow, and wrist guards to prevent injuries during falls. It’s also important to have tools like bearing presses and skate tools to keep skates well-maintained, especially for advanced skating in skateparks.
S1 Lifer Helmet
The S1 Lifer Helmet features a high-impact EPS Foam Liner, engineered for superior protection during significant falls and repeated impacts. Distinguished from the Triple 8 Sweatsaver Helmet, it is specifically designed for high-risk scenarios, making it ideal for both beginners who need extra safety and experts undertaking challenging maneuvers. Its professional-grade construction offers unmatched durability and safety, setting it apart as a top choice for riders who prioritize maximum protection in their activities.
| Specifications | |
| Size | SM, MD, LG, XL, XXL, 3XL |
| Price | $79.99 – $94.99 |
Triple 8 Sweatsaver Helmet
The Triple 8 Sweatsaver Helmet combines high-impact EPS foam, dual-density soft foam, and plush sweatsaver fabric, providing exceptional comfort and protection. Its dual-certified design ensures top-level safety for both beginners and experts. This helmet is an excellent choice for all skill levels due to its combination of superior comfort, advanced protection, and versatility, making it a valuable investment for any rider.
| Specifications | |
| Size | XS/SM, SM/MD, LG/XL, XL/XXL |
| Price | $42.20 – $64.95 |
187 Killer Wrist Guards
The 187 Killer Wrist Guards are designed with a robust splint at the base of the hand, targeting the area most susceptible to impacts while rollerskating. Their contoured design ensures a comfortable, snug fit, and the double stitching enhances their durability. Wrist guards are crucial for skaters of all levels, not just beginners, as they provide essential protection against common injuries, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable skating experience.
| Specifications | |
| Size | JR, XS, SM, MD, LG |
| Price | $22.95 |
Smith Scabs Derby Knee Pads
Smith Derby Knee Pads, designed for the rigors of roller derby, offer exceptional comfort and robust protection, making them perfect for all types of skating. They stand out with their three-layer cushioning, providing maximum knee protection. These pads are an excellent choice for beginner skaters, from park to recreational skating, as they ensure safety and confidence while learning and practicing, reducing the risk of knee injuries.
| Specifications | |
| Size | SM, MD, LG, XL, XXL |
| Price | $49.95 |
187 Six Pack
The 187 Six Pack pad set offers great value, providing durable and quality protection for your knees, wrists, and elbows during skating activities. Its foam effectively absorbs hard impacts, and the high-density plastic hard caps shield against abrasions and minor bumps. We recommend them for beginners because they offer comprehensive protection, essential for building confidence and skill while minimizing the risk of injury. The Moxi edition, shown in the image above, is one of several color options available for this product, catering to a variety of tastes and styles.
| Specifications | |
| Size | Junior, XS, SM/MD, LG/XL, XXL |
| Price | $59.99 – $84.99 |
Triple Eight Saver Series Pad Set
The Triple Eight Saver Series Pad Set, including Kneesavers, Elbowsavers, and Wristsavers, offers excellent protection at an affordable price, making it an ideal choice for beginners on a budget. These pads are available in various colors and sizes to suit personal preferences and fit requirements. We recommend this set for budget-conscious beginners because it provides essential safety without compromising on quality, ensuring a safe and enjoyable skating experience.
| Specifications | |
| Size | Junior, Small, Medium, Large |
| Price | $19.99 – $44.99 |
Powerdyne Y3 Skate Tool
The Powerdyne Y3 Skate Tool is a versatile accessory for roller skaters, perfect for changing wheels and tightening bolts. It includes two socket sizes (1/2″ & 9/16″) and a 15/16″ wrench, compatible with standard axle lock nuts, kingpin lock nuts, and toe stops. Carrying this tool while skating is a smart practice, as it allows for quick adjustments and repairs, ensuring your skates are always in top condition for a safe and smooth skating experience.
| Specifications | |
| Price | $15.00 |
Bont Bearing Press
The Bont Bearing Press is an essential tool for roller skaters who often change their bearings. It efficiently presses bearings into skate wheels and facilitates effortless removal with its dual-end design. We love this tool for its versatility and adjustability, accommodating both 7mm and 8mm bearings, making it incredibly useful for maintaining smooth and efficient skate performance.
| Specifications | |
| Price | $59.99 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the differences between ABEC 5, ABEC 7, and ABEC 9 bearings in roller skates?
ABEC ratings indicate the precision and efficiency of bearings, with higher numbers representing higher precision. ABEC 5 bearings are standard and offer adequate performance for most beginners, balancing cost and quality. ABEC 7 bearings provide smoother and faster performance, which is suitable for those who want a bit more speed. ABEC 9 bearings are top-of-the-line in terms of precision and smoothness, and they are ideal for advanced skating but might be more than a beginner needs initially.
How does wheel width affect roller skate performance?
Wheel width impacts stability and speed. Narrower wheels are typically faster and more agile, making them good for sporty or aggressive skating styles. Wider wheels provide better stability and balance, which can be helpful for beginners who are still gaining confidence in skates. The choice of wheel width should align with your comfort level and intended skating activities.
What is the kingpin angle on roller skates, and why does it matter?
The kingpin angle in roller skates refers to the angle at which the kingpin (the bolt that holds the skate truck parts together) is set relative to the skate plate. This angle influences how the skates pivot and turn. A smaller angle results in a tighter, more responsive turning radius, which can be great for agility and tricks. A larger angle offers smoother, more gradual turns, which might be easier for beginners to manage. Choosing the right kingpin angle can enhance your control and overall skating experience.
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