Best Women's Inline Skates

Buying guide for Best women’s rollerblades

Written by Ade Hennis

Updated April 2022

Though they had their heyday in the late 1980s and early ’90s, inline skates or rollerblades (as most call them) are still a terrific way to have a blast while getting in shape. Easier to master than roller skates thanks to their sturdy, supportive design, rollerblades give you a low-impact workout that does wonders for strengthening your core and upper legs while improving your balance and coordination.

According to the National Museum of Roller Skating, inline skates were first invented in the 1760s and, later, became a way for Olympic skaters to keep up their skills when not on the ice. In the 1980s, the Rollerblade company perfected the heel brake and brought inline skating to the masses with skates in radical neon colours, which is why most of us still call any pair of skates with three to five wheels in a single line rollerblade.

Wondering whether a rollerblade workout is right for you? Rollerblading is commonly accepted as one of the best forms of exercise, as it has low impact on delicate joints, can be done alone or with a group of friends, and is highly adjustable in terms of the intensity of the workout.

Key considerations

Recreational skates vs. high-performance skates

Before purchasing rollerblades, customers should identify the kinds of skating activities they wish to do. Leisurely family outings, beachside cruising, or running errands around town are best to do with recreational skates, which have a higher cuff for support and are generally cheaper in price. Those needing rollerblades for competitive sports, workout routines, or simply a high-quality skating experience should consider investing in a set of high-performance skates. When checking out performance skates, look for a shorter cuff for mobility and bigger wheels for increased speed.

Frame

The rollerblade frame is one of the more important considerations when buying inline skates as it works to secure the wheels in their proper formation while attaching them to the boot. Recreational skates with an inexpensive price tag are generally constructed with a plastic frame, and this build will work fine for novice and leisurely skaters. As more speed and power is applied to the skate, however, the plastic frame will begin to twist underneath the pressure. For maximum stability, control, and durability in your skates, purchase a pair with an aluminum frame.

Bearing

The most common measuring system for rollerblade bearings is based on the ABEC system, a numerical ranking that grades the skates’ bearings on a scale of one to nine. Cheaper, recreational blades will typically have lower ABEC ratings from one to six, while high-performance skates will offer exceptional bearings at ABEC seven to nine. Be aware that not all bearings are measured with the ABEC system — some are ranked under the ILQ and SG models. However, all the rankings will share numbers similar to the ABEC system; lower numbers mean lower quality bearings, and higher numbers provide a higher-performance glide.

Boot

The construction of the boot is key to customer comfort. This includes the interior fabric layering, the shock absorption of the footbed, the thickness of the tongue, and the exterior lacing system. As with most things, the fit and overall comfort of the boot are largely determined by how much money a buyer is willing to spend. For serious performance, a form-fitting boot is best.

There are two main types of rollerblades: recreational skates and high-performance skates. We note both types in our research and explore who should use each type.

The frame is one of the most important foundations of a skate because it secures the wheels to the skate. In our research, we look at plastic frames and aluminum frames, comparing the pros and cons of each.

We assess rollerblade bearings based on a 1 to 9 scale. Lower numbers mean lower quality; higher numbers represent a higher-performance glide.

We evaluate construction quality of a rollerblade boot by assessing its interior, fabric layering, shock absorption, and tongue thickness. A comfortable rollerblade should be form-fitting yet breathable.

We look at whether rollerblades have brakes, how well the brakes work, and how easy they are to use.

We look at the size of a rollerblade’s wheel when determining how fast a skate might go. Typically, the larger the wheel, the faster it can go.

We consider how easy a rollerblade is to lace and the types of lacing mechanisms used. Common lacing systems include shoelaces, buckles, and tightening knobs.

Rollerblades can cost as little as $15 and as much as $600. We research options at different price points to find quality blades for all budgets.

We look for rollerblades with dependable ankle support, which is important for both balance and control.

Many rollerblades offer additional features such as adjustable sizes, removable wheels, or a removable liner. When these features are offered, we assess them to see if they add value to the purchase.

Features

Wheels

Rollerblade speed depends almost entirely upon one thing: wheel size. Generally, the larger the wheel, the faster the skates can go, as the longer circumference takes the skate farther in a single wheel rotation. The larger surface area does require more initial effort to accelerate the wheels up to maximum speed, but the extra push is worth the high-flying ease once you’ve gained momentum. Smaller wheels are easier to get rolling, but the wheels require constant push to maintain their speed. The fast pace of the larger wheels are must-haves for advanced skaters or roller sporting, and smaller wheels are typically ideal for recreational users.

Color

Almost every part of a rollerblade is customizable, allowing for infinite self-expression in your skates’ design. Light-up wheels can be bought online and added to your favorite rollerblades, neon-colored frames can be acquired, and boots come in a variety of hues. If piecing together odds and ends of rollerblade parts isn’t your thing, try finding a pre-assembled rollerblade you connect with — ideally, the skates’ design should be something you’re proud to show off to your friends. Rollerblades come in all kinds of different patterns and colors, so finding a skate look you enjoy shouldn’t be too difficult.

Lacing mechanism

Finding the correct fit is essential to comfortable rollerblading, and lacing mechanisms are imperative in determining the fit of the boot. A proper lacing system should keep your foot securely in the boot and should also mold the boot to the shape of your leg to prevent unnecessary wiggle room. There are different kinds of lacing systems, and the one you choose is strictly up to you. Some of the lacing systems available to skaters include shoelaces, buckles, and tightening knobs, though there are other forms of closure for different user needs.

Women’s rollerblade prices

Rollerblades can meet almost any budget with prices ranging from $15 to $600.

Inexpensive

Cheaper rollerblades can cost anywhere from $15 to $200. These models are best for beginners and leisurely skating. Rollerblades in this price range will usually come with a plastic frame, smaller wheels, a longer cuff, and a simple lacing system. Though these features will not be as fast or as durable as more expensive skates, the rollerblades in this budget should fit the needs of most recreational skaters.

Mid-range

Customers wanting a high-quality skate should go for a pair within the $200 to $400 range. These rollerblades are a fine purchase for most roller sports and are guaranteed to last for years. Mid-range skates will feature larger wheels, a shorter cuff, an aluminum frame, and a lacing system that fits snugly to the foot — an excellent option for those wanting a decent skate.

Expensive

Rollerblades of the highest caliber can be found for around $400 to $600, though there are many pairs that exceed $600. These top-of-the-line skates are a must-have for competitive skaters and professional roller sports. Remarkable mobility, fit, comfort, and speed will accompany skates at these prices, and they are sure to provide one of the smoothest glides available to skaters.

Tips

• Customers wanting an effortless skating experience should invest in lightweight rollerblades. These tend to cost more, but the ease of skating is worth the cost for some.
• To keep your rollerblades working for years, be sure to do an occasional deep cleaning of your skates to prevent long-term damage from unwanted debris.
• When choosing the size of your skate, smaller is better. A skate that hugs your foot will offer the greatest control as well as prevent blisters and general discomfort.
• Always wear a helmet when skating outdoors to protect your head.

Socks are key for rollerbladers everywhere, as they keep the interior of your boot clean and feet comfortable. Many beginner and intermediate skaters prefer neoprene socks to prevent blisters in ill-fitting skates.

FAQ

Q. Which is a better lacing system: shoelaces or buckles?

A. Depends on your needs. Laces are often cheaper and provide evenly distributed pressure for nearly universal comfort. Buckles are typically more durable, adjustable, and quick to secure, but some users find their stiff pressure uncomfortable.

Q. Am I allowed to skate anywhere?

A. Most outdoor public spaces allow for rollerblading, but be sure to check with your city before taking to the road — some districts, streets, and sidewalks have skating bans, and most indoor venues prohibit skating of any kind.

Q: Are inline skates and rollerblades different?

A: Essentially, no. Rollerblades and inline skates are basically the same product. However, Rollerblade is a famous brand whose name is commonly used in lieu of the term inline skates — much like how customers use the term Chapstick to refer to all kinds of lip balm. The official names for rollerblades and rollerblading in the skating world are inline skates and inline skating.