In-line skating is one of the most fun activities to do on a beautiful day and can be an excellent way to stay fit and healthy. It’s a lot easier on the joints than jogging since it’s a low-impact activity, making it a suitable exercise for anybody with weak knees.
In-line skates can be expensive, so whether you’re new to the sport and looking to buy your first pair or an experienced in-line skater looking for a cheap set to wear for recreational Sunday sessions, there are plenty of terrific budget-friendly options.
In-line skates designed for experienced skaters can cost anywhere from $200-$400. However, many high-quality skates in the $100-$200 range deliver on all fronts, including comfort, speed and overall performance. So you don’t need to break the bank to have a decent skating experience.
In-line skates are naturally bulkier than your everyday shoes, and although you want them to have a snug fit, there should also be some room at the front for your toes to move freely. It’s recommended to go with a half size up from your regular shoe size. For example, if your shoe size is 10, the ideal size for your skates would be 10½.
There are several types of skates, each with its advantages and disadvantages:
Wheel size is important and depends mainly on your skill level. If you’re a beginner, smaller wheels are recommended as they allow for better control and provide more stability. If you’re a more experienced skater, larger wheels are ideal as they offer more speed. Also, it’s worth noting that smaller wheels are often more comfortable, but three-wheel configurations can make skates with large wheels comfortable and easy to control as well.
A skate’s boot shell can be either soft or hard. Soft-shell boots are more lightweight and better ventilated, making them more suitable for long-distance skating. Hard-shell boots are heavier, but they offer more protection and stability, making them ideal for beginners.
Most skates close with straps or laces. Laces allow more diversity in how the boot is fastened, but they’re not as convenient or secure as straps. Straps are better if you’re a beginner, as they offer more security and protection.
In-line skate frames are either aluminum or composite. Energy transfer is much more efficient in aluminum frames, which means they offer more speed and control. Aluminum frames are the most common and preferred option for experienced inline skaters. However, recreational skaters can opt for either type of frame.
Rollerblade Men’s Advantage Pro XT
These recreational skates are excellent for beginners and intermediate-level skaters as they offer a balanced combination of speed and stability. They have a shock-absorbing frame and a supportive shell for optimal foot support and safety.
Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Rollerblade Men's Zetrablade Elite Inline Skates
These skates offer superior support and comfort and have a durable integrated frame and shell construction. They have a low center of gravity and large 80-millimeter wheels for better control, making them an excellent choice for anyone learning to skate.
Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
DBX Women’s Reaction XT Inline Skates
It doesn’t get much better than these when it comes to women’s skates. They have a secure strap and buckle closure system, a durable aluminum frame and a comfortable performance liner for superior comfort and performance.
Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods
Roces Men’s Helium II The Invisible Frame Skates
Few skates are as comfortable as these, which feature a contoured footbed for a secure fit and cushioned anatomical padding. The wheels are firm, and the Cool Breath mesh allows maximum ventilation.
Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods
Rollerblade Men’s Macroblade 80 Inline Skates
Look no further than the Macroblade 80 Inline Skates if you want a supreme combination of speed, control and comfort. They have a durable aluminum frame and a cushioned liner for lasting comfort throughout long skating sessions. Also, they have both straps and laces for ultimate foot stability and security.
Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods
Roller Derby Elite Alpha Three-Wheel Inline Skates
These fitness skates have a protective but lightweight aluminum frame and are excellent for indoor skating and outdoor long-distance skating. They have a three-wheel configuration and oversized 110-millimeter wheels that can be swapped out for smaller wheels. In addition, they feature a micro-fit closure for stability and fast Bevo Gold-7 Race Rated chrome bearings.
Sold by Kohl’s and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Epic Adult Engage Inline Skates
You’d be hard-pressed to find more durable skates at this price point. The frame is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, and the large 125-millimeter wheels allow for high speeds. Also, they have a lever buckle for a comfortable, secure fit and extra foot stability.
Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods
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Kevin Luna writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
