Best Roller Skates Reviewed & Rated for Quality

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
 Chicago Classic
Test Winner: Chicago Classic
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For a lot of us, roller skates and roller rinks were a huge part of our extracurricular activities. Meeting up at the local roller rink where you could show off your latest pair of skates or some new moves was one of the best parts of your week. Even though times have changed, the old style roller skates are making a comeback in a big way.

Even though this past time has been over invented and there are individuals who also enjoy rollerblading, there are still individuals who love to roller skate. So, if you are looking into getting a pair of roller skates, here's a list of the best 10 roller skates out there, including skates for men, women, and children alike.

Standout Picks

 Chicago Classic
The Chicago Women’s Classic Roller Skates were designed with support and comfort in mind. These classic style, quad roller skates are equipped with a high top to help give you the utmost support while skating. Made from vinyl, these skates are perfect for indoor and outdoor use and come with a front stopper that is adjustable and allows for more accurate control. Whether you are just a beginner at skating or have been skating for a while, these roller skates aim to please.
Amazon Link
$58.24
 Roller Derby Firestar
The Roller Derby Firestar Youth Girls Roller Skates are the perfect choice for young girls. Their comfort fit and velcro strap design make them easy to put on and take off. Perfect for beginners, these lightweight roller skates with a front toe stopper were designed with comfort and ease in mind. The comfort fit will help any young girl feel comfortable and confident while skating.
Amazon Link
$29.88
 Kandy-Luscious
These roller skates were fully designed with style, durability, and comfort in mind. Made from a combination of mesh and leather, these skates were most definitely built to last. With a high-top design for better support and the polyurethane front stoppers, your child can skate for hours while you rest easy knowing that these are safe skates. Coming in a variety of colors, these roller skates will surely be a huge hit with the kids.
Amazon Link
$49.00
 Riedell Skates Dart
The Riedell Skates Dart Roller Skates are the perfect fit for those who love roller skating. These skates are made from synthetic leather and sit lower on the ankle, offering easier movement. Made with ABEC-5 bearings, these offer the perfect middle ground for resistance. These skates are also equipped with a unique nylon plate that offers optimal performance. Coming in a variety of colors with matching hubs, these skates will surely catch the eye of anyone and everyone.
Amazon Link
$135.00
 Pacer Mach-5
The Pacer Mach-5 skates are the perfect set of skates for any beginner. The ABEC 1 bearings offer the least amount of resistance, making these perfect for just starting out or if you have gone many years without putting on a pair of roller skates. Equipped with a collar that is padded and a comfortable lining, it is safe to say that these skates were definitely made with comfort in mind.
Amazon Link
 Playwheels Disney Princess
The Playwheels Disney Princess roller skates are the perfect skates for toddlers who are just starting out with skating. Made from polymer plastic that is impact resistant, these roller skates are easily adjustable, so it can grow with your child. It also has a strap that safely buckles your child’s feet in, so you can rest easy while they are enjoying their new skates.
Amazon Link
$36.20
 Moxi
If you are looking for an older looking style of roller skates, then the Moxi Lolly Roller Skates are the ones for you. Designed in all suede, these skates are sure to turn heads while you are out and about. Made in a high top design, these skates offer optimal ankle support for the maximum comfort and coverage. The bearings are ABEC-7, which means that you will have some heavier resistance while skating. Coming in a few different colors, these suede skates are sure to catch everyone’s attention.
Amazon Link
 Sure-Grip Stardust Glitter
The Sure-Grip Stardust Glitter Roller Skates are the perfect choice for those who like a little extra flare from the regular skates. These skates have vinyl boots and are equipped with a nylon plate for maximum movement. The outside of the boot has a glitter design, so you will definitely stand out in a crowd and the special wheels allow you to go from inside to outside with ease. Whether you are just tooling around the neighborhood or at a roller rink, these skates are sure to draw attention.
Amazon Link
 Sonic Cruiser Unisex Quad
The Sonic Cruiser Unisex Quad Roller Skates are the perfect set of roller skates for any guy, girl or child. These skates have a unique sneaker style to them, so you get all of the comforts of a sneaker in a skate. Equipped with nylon plates and durable wheels with ABEC 1 bearings, these skates offer a comfortable, lightweight, low resistance way to skate.
Amazon Link
 Cal 7 Soft Faux
The Cal 7 Soft Faux Leather High Top Boot Roller Skates are the perfect way to bring back the old retro skate look. These high top boot roller skates offer maximum support of ankles all while the faux leather offers the utmost comfort. This material also allows for maximum movement and flexibility, so you don’t have to worry about feeling constricted or rigid while you skate.
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Features

Plates

Unless you are an avid roller skater, you probably don’t know much about the plates used in roller skates. For those of you who don’t know, the term “plate” refers to the part of the skate that connects the wheels and truck of the skate to the actual boot of the skate. The types of material that are most commonly used are aluminum and some form of nylon.

Aluminum plates can vary on the weight. A lower end aluminum may be a bit on the heavy side, making the skate that much heavier, which can prove to be a bit challenging. A higher grade aluminum tends to be much lighter, a lot more like a nylon plate. Skates with aluminum plates tend to be a little more expensive due to the quality of material being used and the durability. Choosing between the two different grades of aluminum really depends on how heavy of a skate you are looking for. If you are a beginner, a heavier skate may prove to be a bit more challenging when it comes to gaining momentum.

Nylon plates are a very common choice when it comes to roller skates. This is because of how lightweight the material. Nylon tends to have a bit more flexibility than aluminum, which is why a lot of roller skates are made with nylon plates these days. If you choose a skate with a nylon plate, keep in mind that they made not be as durable as the skates with aluminum plates.

Advanced Features

Bearings

Bearings play a major role in the type of roller skates that you are looking to purchase. All bearings are rated through the ABEC scale system. This system will basically tell you where the skate bearings are on the scale of resistance. The higher the number on the scale, the higher the amount of resistance. This is important to keep in mind, especially if you are a beginner or just starting back up after years of not skating.

On the ABEC scale, ABEC-1 has the least amount of resistance and ABEC-9 has the most resistance. If you are a beginner, you may want to choose a skate that has a bearing that is between an ABEC-1 and an ABEC-3. This will allow you to get a good feel for roller skating and allow you to practice until you feel more comfortable moving up on the scale. For the more experienced skater, an ABEC-5 or higher may be your best option, especially if you are looking at roller skating as a form of exercise.

Style

Style

Back when roller skates were the craze, there weren’t a whole lot of options to choose from. The choices were minimal at best and you most definitely did not get the option of the type of style. Today things are quite different. When it comes to choosing what roller skates best fit your needs, there are 3 main options to choose from; low-top, high-top, and sneaker style. I will go over the different aspects of each of these styles.

Low-top roller skates are skates that sit just below the ankle. This style of roller skates is very popular among the professional skaters or those who have been roller skating for years. The low-top skates allow for more movement and flexibility while skating, offering more precise turns and stops. The low-top skates are not for everybody though. If you are not accustomed to roller skates, they can leave you feeling a bit unstable and unsteady.

High-top roller skates are skates that come to the top of the ankle. These types of skates are popular among the beginners or those who want to get the feel of roller skating again. This style offers a lot more support than the low-top skates because it surrounds your ankle, allowing for minimal ankle movement but better control and stability.

The sneaker style skate is a new way to bring added comfort to the world of roller skating. Built with comfort in mind, the sneaker style skates are basically a pair of sneakers on wheels. They offer a whole lot of comfort with the functionality of a skate. This style is really popular among the youth because of its hip look.

Materials

Material

The type of material used when making roller skates has come a long way as well. There are so many options to choose from these days and it really all comes down to comfort and preference. Everyone has their own likes and dislikes when it comes to material and how it feels on their skin, so there really is no wrong choice when it comes to the type of material the skates are made from.

The different types of material can range from anywhere from suede to vinyl to leather or a mixture of two. Vinyl is a very common material used in roller skates because of its flexibility. Even though this material is flexible, it won’t soften up or contour to your feet like leather will. Leather is more commonly used for comfort purposes. Leather tends to be a softer material against the skin, so you don’t have to worry about any unnecessary chafing of the skin. Although it’s not the most common material used, suede is another material used in making roller skates. Suede is just another form of leather, being equally soft and contours your feet like leather.

Weather Resistance

Indoor vs Outdoor

When you are shopping for roller skates, you will notice that some say “indoor”, some say “outdoor” and some say both. The main difference between indoor roller skates and outdoor roller skates is the type of wheels they have. Indoor roller skates have wheels that are harder and designed for more giving you a nice, smooth roll while you skate. Outdoor skates are equipped with wheels that are a little softer, making it much easier to roller skate on the sidewalk or blacktop.  It is important to know what kind of rollerblading you will be engaging in prior to buying your skates, as this will be a key in how smooth your ride is. 

Value

Cost

As with anything you plan on investing in, you will definitely want to consider the cost before purchasing. The price of roller skates can vary from the type of material used to make the skates, to the type of plate and bearings. The amount of money you wish to spend on roller skates largely has to do with how often you plan on skating. If you plan on roller skating just on an occasional basis as a recreational hobby, then you may want to stick with the lower to average price range. If you plan on roller skating on a regular basis, whether it is for exercise or competition, you will most definitely want to look into a higher quality pair of roller skates, which will most likely cost you more.

Top 10 Picks

1. Chicago Classic

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$58.24
 Chicago Classic
Amazon Link

The Chicago Women’s Classic Roller Skates were designed with support and comfort in mind. These classic style, quad roller skates are equipped with a high top to help give you the utmost support while skating. Made from vinyl, these skates are perfect for indoor and outdoor use and come with a front stopper that is adjustable and allows for more accurate control. Whether you are just a beginner at skating or have been skating for a while, these roller skates aim to please.

Adjustable
These classic skates are adjustable in more ways than one. Not only is the front stop adjustable, allowing for maximum control, but the truck and chassis are also adjustable, which gives you the ultimate stability, comfort, and control. You can make adjustments that best suit your needs and level of comfort.

Indoor and Outdoor
One of the coolest aspects of these roller skates is that they can be used for indoor skating and outdoor skating. Made from a strong, dependable vinyl, 60mm core wheels made from urethane, and 608Z bearings, these skates have amazing traction for almost any surface and provide optimal control, no matter where you are skating.

Cost and Value
If you are looking for a classic set of roller skates that won’t empty your wallet, then the Chicago Women’s Classic Roller Skates are the perfect choice for you. When compared to other roller skates on this list, these fall into the average price range. Considering the overall quality of these skates, the classic look of these skates, along with the fact that these can be used indoor and outdoor, this is one deal that you won’t want to pass up.

Amazon Link
$58.24

2. Roller Derby Firestar

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$29.88
 Roller Derby Firestar
Amazon Link

The Roller Derby Firestar Youth Girls Roller Skates are the perfect choice for young girls. Their comfort fit and velcro strap design make them easy to put on and take off. Perfect for beginners, these lightweight roller skates with a front toe stopper were designed with comfort and ease in mind. The comfort fit will help any young girl feel comfortable and confident while skating.

Sports Shoe Design
These roller skates were made for the ultimate comfort. The unique sports design allows for maximum support. Desisportsmore like a sport shoe than an actual skate, these skates will help your little one feel both comfortable and secure, helping her build confidence with every stride.

Velcro Strap
These roller skates are also equipped with a velcro strap at the top of the skate. This, along with the laces, helps give your little one the security and confidence she needs to feel confident and comfortable while she is skating.

Cost and Value
If you are looking for roller skates for a special young lady in your life, but don’t want to spend an arm and a leg, then the Roller Derby Firestar Youth Girl’s Roller Skates are the perfect choice for you. When comparing these roller skates to other roller skates on this list, these are the least expensive. This means that you are getting a high-quality pair of skates built with maximum comfort and stability in mind for a fraction of the cost.

Amazon Link
$29.88

3. Kandy-Luscious

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$49.00
 Kandy-Luscious
Amazon Link

These roller skates were fully designed with style, durability, and comfort in mind. Made from a combination of mesh and leather, these skates were most definitely built to last. With a high-top design for better support and the polyurethane front stoppers, your child can skate for hours while you rest easy knowing that these are safe skates. Coming in a variety of colors, these roller skates will surely be a huge hit with the kids.

High-Quality
The Kandy-Luscious Kids Roller Skates are made from a combination of high-quality mesh and PVC leather, making these skates extremely strong and dependable. The wheels and trucks are made from strong, durable aluminum and the wheel bearings are ABEC-7 for a smooth ride, so you know that these skates were not only made with safety in mind, but they were also built to last.

Ultimate Safety
These roller skates were designed with the utmost safety as a number one priority. The high-top design ensures that your child gets the most ankle support possible so they can focus on enjoying their time skating and you can have peace of mind. These skates also have front toe stoppers made from a strong polyurethane that are also replaceable, which means that your little one will be able to stop on a dime.

Cost and Value
In comparison to other roller skates on this list, this one falls into the average category when it comes to pricing. Considering that you are getting roller skates made from high-quality mesh and leather, a high-top design for extra support, ABEC-7 durable bearings, and a whole array of color choices, I would say that you are getting an amazing pair of roller skates for a great price.

Amazon Link
$49.00

4. Riedell Skates Dart

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$135.00
 Riedell Skates Dart
Amazon Link

The Riedell Skates Dart Roller Skates are the perfect fit for those who love roller skating. These skates are made from synthetic leather and sit lower on the ankle, offering easier movement. Made with ABEC-5 bearings, these offer the perfect middle ground for resistance. These skates are also equipped with a unique nylon plate that offers optimal performance. Coming in a variety of colors with matching hubs, these skates will surely catch the eye of anyone and everyone.

PowerDyne Nylon Plate
These skates were designed with performance and durability in mind. Equipped with a unique PowerDyne reinforced, lightweight nylon plate, these skates allow you to skate with ultimate precision and performance. The trucks that are attached to this plate are made from solid, durable metal, so you know that these skates were built to last.

Matching Hubs
What really sets these skates above the rest is their slick design. These skates come with matching hubs no matter what color or design you choose, so you can skate in style and make everyone’s heads turn!

Cost and Value
Comparing these roller skates to other roller skates on this list, these happen to fall in the more expensive price range. Don’t let this price steer you in a different direction though. From its sleek design with matching hubs, its unique, durable nylon plate, its midi grip toe stopper, and its dart boot design, you are getting an incredibly durable pair of roller skates that are worth every penny spent.

Amazon Link
$135.00

5. Pacer Mach-5

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Pacer Mach-5
Amazon Link

The Pacer Mach-5 skates are the perfect set of skates for any beginner. The ABEC 1 bearings offer the least amount of resistance, making these perfect for just starting out or if you have gone many years without putting on a pair of roller skates. Equipped with a collar that is padded and a comfortable lining, it is safe to say that these skates were definitely made with comfort in mind.

Perfect for Beginners
These Pacer Mach-5 skates are perfect for anyone who has the urge to pick up roller skating for the first time. The ABEC 1 bearings offer the least amount of resistance, which means that you won’t have to push so hard to get moving. This is perfect for those who want to take their time learning how to skate.

Comfortable Fit
These roller skates were made with the utmost comfort in mind. The boot of the skate is made from a padded vinyl material, which makes this one comfortable skate. It is also equipped with a collar that is padded and extra comfortable lining, so you can skate for hours without regretting it the next day.

Cost and Value
When compared to other roller skates on this list, these fall right into the average price range. This is great news for beginners because you are getting roller skates that are made from high-quality material with extra padding for comfort, low resistance bearings, and a durable front toe stop all for an amazing price that you can’t walk away from.

Amazon Link

6. Playwheels Disney Princess

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$36.20
 Playwheels Disney Princess
Amazon Link

The Playwheels Disney Princess roller skates are the perfect skates for toddlers who are just starting out with skating. Made from polymer plastic that is impact resistant, these roller skates are easily adjustable, so it can grow with your child. It also has a strap that safely buckles your child’s feet in, so you can rest easy while they are enjoying their new skates.

Adjustable
One of the neat aspects of these roller skates is that they were designed to grow along with your child. With a simple button push design, these skates can adjust anywhere from a Junior size 10 all the way to a Junior size 13. This means that you will be able to use these skates for years to come.

Polymer Plastic
When it comes to children, you can never be too safe. With these skates, you won’t have to worry about safety being an issue. These skates are made from a tough polymer plastic that resists most types of impact, so you won’t have to worry when your child smacks into objects. It is also equipped with an extra strap for safety, so your child’s feet are securely locked in place.

Cost and Value
If you are looking for a pair of beginner roller skates for your young toddler and aren’t looking to spend a ton of money, then the Playwheels Disney Princess roller skates are the perfect choice for you. In comparison to other roller skates on this list, these roller skates are in the average price range. Considering the overall quality of these skates, the added safety features, and the fact that these skates grow along with your child, these skates are an amazing investment for a great price!

Amazon Link
$36.20

7. Moxi

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Moxi
Amazon Link

If you are looking for an older looking style of roller skates, then the Moxi Lolly Roller Skates are the ones for you. Designed in all suede, these skates are sure to turn heads while you are out and about. Made in a high top design, these skates offer optimal ankle support for the maximum comfort and coverage. The bearings are ABEC-7, which means that you will have some heavier resistance while skating. Coming in a few different colors, these suede skates are sure to catch everyone’s attention.

Suede
These Moxi Lolly Roller Skates are made from suede, which not only makes them unique and stand out, but it also makes for one very soft pair of skates. The suede material is soft and comfortable and they also include a soft liner, so you never have to worry about your feet being sore or uncomfortable while skating with these on your feet.

Moxi Outdoor Wheels
These roller skates are also equipped with special Moxi wheels that are specifically designed to handle the pavement outside. They have a gummy-like texture to them, which helps with the overall traction of these skates, making it that much easier to skate outdoors.

Cost and Value
When compared to other roller skates on this list, these are the most expensive pair, but don’t be discouraged by the price. These skates are made from suede, so they are extremely comfortable. They are also equipped with PowerDyne nylon plates for extra durability and ABEC-7 bearings for extra resistance. Overall, you are getting an amazing pair of roller skates that will last for years to come.

Amazon Link

8. Sure-Grip Stardust Glitter

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Sure-Grip Stardust Glitter
Amazon Link

The Sure-Grip Stardust Glitter Roller Skates are the perfect choice for those who like a little extra flare from the regular skates. These skates have vinyl boots and are equipped with a nylon plate for maximum movement. The outside of the boot has a glitter design, so you will definitely stand out in a crowd and the special wheels allow you to go from inside to outside with ease. Whether you are just tooling around the neighborhood or at a roller rink, these skates are sure to draw attention.

Stardust Wheels
These skates have unique stardust wheels that allow you to go from surface to surface with maximum ease. These special wheels grip to almost any surface and have amazing traction, so you don’t have to worry about slipping or sliding while changing terrain.

ABEC 3 Bearings
Not only do these skates have a unique set of wheels, but they are also equipped with ABEC 3 bearings, which are perfect for beginners because of the minimal resistance. The wheels and the front toe stopper also match the color of the skates, so you can skate in style.

Cost and Value
If you are looking for a set of roller skates that make you stand out in a crowd, then these are the perfect choice for you. In comparison to other roller skates on this list, these fall into the more expensive category. If you consider the overall quality of these skates, the nylon plate for extra durability, and the unique stardust wheels that allow you to move from surface to surface with ease, these skates are worth every penny.

Amazon Link

9. Sonic Cruiser Unisex Quad

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Sonic Cruiser Unisex Quad
Amazon Link

The Sonic Cruiser Unisex Quad Roller Skates are the perfect set of roller skates for any guy, girl or child. These skates have a unique sneaker style to them, so you get all of the comforts of a sneaker in a skate. Equipped with nylon plates and durable wheels with ABEC 1 bearings, these skates offer a comfortable, lightweight, low resistance way to skate.

Comforts of a Sneaker
These roller skates were designed with the utmost comfort in mind. Made from the design of a sneaker, these skates have the comfort level of your favorite pair of shoes and all of the functionality of a durable skate. This unique sneaker design will leave you feeling comfortable, even after hours of skating.

Outdoor Wheels
The wheels on these skates are no match for the outside terrain. Designed with the outdoors in mind, these wheels offer amazing traction on almost any type of surface. What’s even better than the traction is that they also offer an amazing grip, so you won’t have to worry about slipping and sliding all over the place.

Cost and Value
If you are looking for an amazingly comfortable pair of skates at a price that won’t completely empty your wallet, then the Sonic Cruiser Unisex Quad Roller Skates are the perfect fit for you. When you compare these roller skates to other roller skates on this list, these fall into the average price range. Considering the overall comfort that these skates offer, the durable outdoor wheels that offer a no-slip grip, and the lightweight nylon plates, you are getting an incredibly comfortable, durable pair of skates that won’t empty your wallet.

Amazon Link

10. Cal 7 Soft Faux

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Cal 7 Soft Faux
Amazon Link

The Cal 7 Soft Faux Leather High Top Boot Roller Skates are the perfect way to bring back the old retro skate look. These high top boot roller skates offer maximum support of ankles all while the faux leather offers the utmost comfort. This material also allows for maximum movement and flexibility, so you don’t have to worry about feeling constricted or rigid while you skate.

Faux Leather
These roller skates are made from faux leather. This material is not only known for being soft and comfortable, but it also moves with your body. This means that you can skate for hours or even miles without having feeling sore or chafing from uncomfortable material rubbing on your skin.

High Top Design
Like the look of the old retro roller skate? If you answered yes, then these skates are the perfect fit for you. These skates bring back the old retro look of the high top roller skates, but with a little more color and style. These high tops also offer great ankle support while you skate, so they are not just built for looks.

Cost and Value

If you are looking for an old retro style roller skate that is durable and comfortable for a price that won’t break the bank, then these skates are just what you need. In comparison to other roller skates on this list, these skates are less expensive. That means that you are getting a good quality pair of roller skates that offer optimal comfort and support, all for a price that you can’t say no to.

Amazon Link

Sources

  1. Wikipedia, Roller Skating, Website
  2. Skates Emporium, 10 Amazing Health Benefits of Roller Skating, Website
  3. Health Fitness Revolution, Top 10 Health Benefits of Roller Skating, Website