Roller skating has existed for nearly three centuries, during which time various skating styles were born. Each style ranges in purpose and skill, making roller skating a widely appealing activity and sport. Roller skating has adapted to be artistic, fun, competitive, and freeing.
What are some of the different types of roller skating? Continue reading to learn more.
Recreational
Recreational roller skating is the most basic form, does not require high skill, and is best for beginners. Chuffed Skates, an Australian-based roller skates company, indicates it is “just for the fun of it with no rules or styles.” Anyone can enjoy this form of skating at their local rink as a fun activity with friends.
Freestyle
The freestyle form sounds similar to recreational but allows more experienced skaters to express themselves with creative techniques. Rainbow Skateland, a New York roller rink skating center, defines freestyle skating as an “emphasis of creativity, expression, and technical skill.” They add that “skaters perform a variety of tricks, spins, and slides allowing skaters to showcase their individuality and inventiveness.” The skater can skate however they please while expressing their personality, creativity, and skill.
Roller Derby
Unlike previous styles, roller derby is a competitive skating sport that places two teams against each other. The goal of the sport is to be a faster and more cunning team. SFV Roller Derby, an LA-based league, adds it is “played on an oval track with “jammers” attempting to pass groups of players called “the pack.” They continue, “This involves somewhat simultaneous defense and offense.” Points are earned by overlapping the opposing team, resulting in a high-paced and thrilling sport of speed, wit, and teamwork.
Artistic
Artistic roller skating borrows some techniques from the freestyle form, but this skating type primarily focuses on self-expression. InMove Skates, a roller skates gear company, explains it as a “form of skating that is not bound by any strict rules or guidelines. but a means of self-expression and a creative outlet. The skater is in control and defines their own style either by skating on their own, with a partner, or a group. Unlike freestyle, artistic encourages skaters to express themselves through whatever feels most appropriate to their personality.
Park/Aggresive
This style varies in name, but it remains the same when performing tricks at skateparks. Chuffed Skates describes this style as “focused on doing tricks on ramps, ledges, rails, and any obstacle found in a skatepark.” They add that it “demands a blend of skill, courage, and creativity.” This style can also call for modified skates suited to performing skatepark tricks. Like previous styles, this type complements the skater and how they enjoy skating.
To Conclude
Roller skating has developed several creative and expressive styles that add to its wide appeal. It can be a form of art and creativity but also a competitive and experimental sport. Roller skating can be an extension of the skater and their personality, expressing individuality and creativity.
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