Roller skating can be an exhilarating way to get some exercise and have fun with your friends and family. Whether you’re a novice skater or a pro skater, finding the right roller skates is vital to a comfortable, safe skating experience.
Read more to find out how to find the right roller skates for you!
Indoor or Outdoor Use
When trying to find the right roller skates, it’s important to consider where you’ll be using them. While you can whiz around with any pair of skates, some are more suitable for different occasions. Whether you’re looking to skate indoors or outdoors, here are some differences to consider when shopping for a pair of skates.
Roller skates for indoor use usually have hard wheels with less grip, making them suitable to glide over those smooth, shiny floors at the roller rink. On the other hand, outdoor skates are softer with more grip, making it easier to skate over rougher surfaces like concrete. SkatePro, a company specializing in selling sports equipment, explains how durometer rating matters and suggests softer, smaller wheels are ideal for beginners.
If you’re unsure of where you prefer to skate, don’t worry! Many roller skates come all-purpose wheels, allowing you to skate indoors and outdoors with ease.
Finding the Right Roller Skates
With indoor and outdoor use covered, finding the right fit for your roller skates is the next step. Using skates that fit correctly and provide the right kind of support allows for a comfortable skating experience so you can skate with ease!
Typically, the size of your skates will be the same as your regular shoe. However, some roller skate brands differ, impacting the size you need. Luckily, online skate shops offer measurements with their product, so you can easily purchase the correct pair.
Similarly, when finding a good pair of skates, consider the amount of padding it provides. Ample padding will not only make the skates fit securely on your feet, but also provide needed support for your ankles when skating.
Boot Stiffness and Style
Another aspect of choosing a suitable pair of skates, as SkatePro suggests, is the boot’s stiffness. A harder boot allows for more intense skating sessions, and provides the support needed to skate longer and prevent fatigue. On the other hand, a softer boot can be more suitable for a more relaxed skating session, whether you’re cruising around the rink or dancing with some friends.
With the boot in mind, you can choose from a low-cut or high-top boot. According to Roller Skate Nation, a company selling roller skating equipment, the main difference between a low-cut boot and a high-top boot is its level of mobility and speed. Low-cut skates are suitable for higher speeds and better movement with a less restricted ankle, and are commonly used for sports like roller derby.
Conclusion
The basics of finding the right roller skates depend on where you’ll be skating, how much support your skates offer, and your boot style. With these factors in mind, you can start skating safely and comfortably.
Roller skating is an exhilarating activity and sport to partake in!Learn more about how the brain is involved during this exciting activity here.