Choosing roller skates is more than just buying sports equipment, it’s an investment in your health, enjoyment and ability to explore the world on two wheels. For adults, the selection criteria can differ significantly from children’s models, taking into account differences in weight, skills and preferences. Let’s take a closer look at how to make the right choice and what to look out for.
Determine your riding level and goals
The first thing to determine is what you plan to use your roller skates for. For beginners, more stable and forgiving models with comfortable boots may be suitable. Experienced skaters may be looking for skates for specialised purposes: speed skating, freestyle, aggressive skating or marathon distances.
Types of roller skates
The variety of roller skates allows you to choose the perfect pair depending on your preferences and skating style. Here’s a reimagined description of the main types:
Roller skates for fitness classes
These skates are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who prefer a smooth ride on the smooth paths of parks and city alleys. They are designed to provide firm foot support and a high level of comfort during long journeys, making them the ideal choice for strengthening your fitness through enjoyable roller skating.
Skates to achieve speed
Designed with advanced skaters in mind, these skates are optimised for fast gliding on perfectly flat surfaces. With their lightweight and rigid construction, they allow the skater’s power to be efficiently transferred to the wheels while achieving impressive speeds, making them a great choice for those seeking maximum performance.
Skates for aggressive skating
These skates are designed for those who like to experience the adrenaline of performing tricks and jumps in skateparks. They allow you to master various elements on ramps and rails, thanks to their reinforced construction and special adaptations for grinds. This type of skate has increased durability and stability, making it ideal for experimenting with new tricks.
Freestyle rollers
Designed for urban adventurers, these skates are ideal for performing highly technical tricks and manoeuvres on street obstacles. They are characterised by high manoeuvrability and stability, allowing skaters to explore urban environments and show off their roller skating skills with confidence.
Selection of size and fit
Choosing the right size is critical for comfort and control. Roller skates should fit snugly around your foot without giving your toes too much freedom, but also without squeezing them. Many brands have their own sizing grids, so it’s important to measure your foot and compare to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Wheels and bearings
- Wheel size affects speed and manoeuvrability. Large wheels (80mm and above) provide high speed and better control over bumps, but make the skate less manoeuvrable. Smaller wheels (less than 80mm) improve manoeuvrability and control.
- Wheel stiffness (durometer) determines grip and wear resistance. Softer wheels (below 85A) provide better grip but wear faster. Harder wheels (85A and above) are more durable and better suited for smooth surfaces.
- Bearings determine the smoothness and speed of the skate. The ABEC rating is the standard for assessing bearing quality, but it is important to remember that a high rating does not always equate to the best ride quality for all conditions.
Safety and accessories
Don’t forget protective gear, including a helmet, elbow pads, kneepads and wrist guards. Also consider buying additional accessories such as replacement wheels, specialised maintenance tools and handy backpacks for transporting your skates.
Buyer’s tip: How to choose roller skates for adults
Buying roller skates is an important choice that requires attention to detail. Here are some key tips to help you make an informed choice and enjoy skating with maximum comfort and safety.
Try on before you buy
Never buy skates without trying them on beforehand. Remember that size and fit can vary greatly from brand to brand and model to model. Trying them on will help ensure that the skates fit your foot well without causing discomfort or restricting movement.
Attention to materials
Choose skates with the quality of materials in mind. The boots should be made of breathable but durable materials to ensure both comfort and durability. Also consider the frame material – aluminium frames offer the best combination of lightness and stiffness compared to plastic frames.
Locking system
The shoe’s retention system should hold your foot securely, minimising the risk of injury. Popular systems include laces, Velcro fasteners and buckle straps. Some models offer a combination of multiple systems to maximise support and comfort.
Consider the type of wheels and bearings
The choice of wheels and bearings depends on your skating goals. For quiet walks, skates with medium-sized wheels (about 80 mm) and medium-class bearings (ABEC 5-7) are suitable. If your goal is speed and aggressive skating, it is worth paying attention to models with large wheels (90 mm and above) and high class bearings (ABEC 9 and above).
Think of the defence
Don’t forget your protective gear, especially if you’re a beginner or plan to ride aggressively. Helmets, elbow pads, knee pads and wrist guards can significantly reduce the risk of injury in falls.
Read reviews and research brands
Before buying, read other buyers’ reviews and look at reviews on specialised forums and social networks. This will help you get an idea of the reliability of the model, its pros and cons. It is also worth paying attention to the brand’s reputation in the world of roller skates.
Budget
Determine your budget in advance, but don’t sacrifice quality for economy. Good roller skates are an investment in your enjoyment and safety. However, more expensive doesn’t always mean better, so look for the best value for money.
Choosing roller skates for adults is a combination of understanding your needs, skills and preferences. Don’t rush into a purchase, consult with professionals and perhaps test a few models before making a decision. Remember, the right skates will increase your love of skating, help you reach new heights of skill, and keep you safe while skating.
Ready to dive into the world of roller skating and maximise your savings at the same time? Go to reBITme.com and discover how to choose the perfect roller skates for adults, not forgetting the possibility of getting a cacheback on every purchase!
