Choosing roller skates for children should not only focus on keeping them entertained and active, but also on helping them develop their physical skills such as balance and coordination. Based on a number of important criteria, let’s take a detailed look at how to make the best choice.
Size and adjustability
Choosing the right skate size and being able to customise it is critical to your baby’s safety and comfort. Here are the main points to consider:
Determining foot size: Before purchasing, it is important to measure your child’s foot in centimetres to determine the exact size, given that sizing can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Size allowance: Look for models with a slight allowance (approximately 0.5-1cm) to allow comfortable space for foot growth, while avoiding too much clearance, which can impair stability and increase the risk of injury.
Adjustable size models: Skates that can be adjusted in size are ideal for the long term and help you save money while ensuring a perfect fit throughout use.
Trying on: Check the fit of the skates by making sure your child is wearing socks designed for skating. The skates should be comfortable and the toes should not touch the front of the shoe.
Safety and security
Safety is the first priority when choosing rollers. Here are some recommendations for safety:
High-quality helmet: Choose a helmet designed specifically for riding that fits securely and does not shift. It is important that the helmet has certification that it is safe.
Protective equipment: It is important to have strong elbow pads, knee pads and wrist guards that fit snugly and do not slip off during movement. Make sure all equipment is appropriate for your child’s size and comfortable.
Safe Falling Techniques: Teach your child how to fall correctly to minimise the risk of serious injury. It is important to avoid the instinctive urge to put the arms forward when falling.
Skating rules: Teach your child the basics of rollerblading safety, including skating only in safe areas, avoiding busy streets and always wearing full protective gear.
Wheels and bearings
Selecting wheels and bearings for your child’s roller skates requires special attention, as these elements directly affect the quality of the ride, safety and comfort. Here are the key aspects you should pay attention to:
Wheel types: Rollerskate wheels come in different stiffnesses (durometer) and diameters. For beginner rollers, wider and softer wheels with a low durometer (around 78A-85A) are recommended, as they better absorb vibrations from uneven terrain and provide good grip. A larger wheel diameter provides more speed, but for beginners, a medium wheel size (around 70-76mm) is preferred for easier handling and stability.
Bearing quality: Bearings affect the skating speed and smoothness of the rollers. Bearings are categorised according to the ABEC system, where a higher value means more precision manufacturing and potentially a smoother ride. For children, bearings with an ABEC-5 or ABEC-7 rating are suitable, providing a good balance between quality and cost.
Care and maintenance: Explain to your child the need for regular maintenance of the wheels and bearings: check them for wear, clean them of dirt and dust, and lubricate the bearings with special oil to ensure smooth running.
Construction and materials
The choice of materials and roller design should aim to ensure durability, comfort and safety when skating:
Frame: Look for rollers with a lightweight and strong frame, which can be made from aluminium or composite materials. Aluminium frames offer better rigidity and power transfer, while composite frames can be more forgiving and comfortable for beginners.
Boot: It is important that the boot is comfortable and provides good ventilation to keep your child’s foot dry and comfortable. Materials like mesh and other breathable fabrics help with this. Also pay attention to the fastening system (laces, Velcro, locks), which should secure the foot and be comfortable for the child.
Inner: Having a quality inner that can be removed and washed is a big plus. This helps maintain hygiene and prolongs the life of the rollers.
Design and attractiveness
Don’t forget that your child should like rollerblades. Let them make the choice together with you. A bright and attractive design can be an additional motivator to practise and develop skating skills.
Buyer’s tip: How to choose rollerblades for your child
Choosing roller skates for your little one requires discretion and attention to detail. Here are some important recommendations to help you make the best choice, ensuring your child’s safety, comfort and joy of roller skating:
Size selection and adaptability: Make sure the size of the rollers fits perfectly. Size-adjustable models are a great choice as they can adjust to your child’s foot height, giving you the option of using them for many seasons.
Guaranteed safety and reliability: Choose rollers with efficient braking systems and don’t forget all the necessary safety equipment: helmet, knee, elbow and wrist guards.
Suitable wheels and bearings for beginners: For beginners and the youngest skaters, skates with small soft wheels and medium level bearings, such as ABEC-5 class, are best suited for beginners. These features will make the skates easier to control and safer to use.
Quality construction and materials: Look for rollers with a lightweight, sturdy frame and breathable boot materials to keep your child’s feet dry and comfortable.
Trying on and first steps: Before buying, try on the rollers with the socks your child will be riding in. After purchase, take time to teach the basics of skating and safety.
Reviews and recommendations: Before buying, read reviews of the roller models you are interested in. You can also consult salespeople in specialised shops or experienced parents.
Consider the child’s interests: Choosing the design and colour of the rollers is also important. Let the child be involved in the choice so that they are motivated and excited to use the rollers.
Budget and quality: Don’t skimp on safety and comfort. However, find a balance between price and quality, taking into account that your child may quickly outgrow the rollers.
When choosing roller skates for your child, it is important to pay attention to the above-mentioned aspects. Remember that quality roller skates are not only an investment in your child’s health and development, but also a guarantee of safe and joyful moments in the fresh air. In the end, when your child is happy and confident to rollerblade, you will realise that your choice was made correctly.
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