Rollerblading is a fun way to get fit outside. Not only does this activity help with overall toning and weight loss, it’s also a great time and is a part of team sports such as roller derby and roller hockey. Whatever your reason to blade, the first step is to find the right rollerblades for you.
To help you in your search, we have reviewed dozens of rollerblades to identify the best of the best. We considered important features such as product reviews, comfort, liners, age, and closure systems.
Looking for other ways to get outside? Take a look at our review o the best mountain bikes.
The Rollerblade Zetrablade is perfect for entry-level or casual skaters who don’t want to break the bank. Features such as a high cuff, SG5 bearings, and durable, monocoque frame help with stability and comfort to ensure that you are getting the smoothest ride.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Rollerblades
| Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | Rollerblade Zetrablade | 4.6 |
| Runner Up | Bladerunner Advantage Pro XT W | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Buy | Roller Derby Stryde Girl’s Adjustable Inline Skates | 4.7 |
| Best Youth Rollerblades | XinoSports Inline Roller Skates | 4.6 |
| Best Urban Rollerblades | Rollerblade Twister 80 Urban Inline Skates | 4.6 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Rollerblade Zetrablade
The Rollerblade Zetrablade was a clear top pick. This inline skate is perfect for beginners or casual skaters who want an affordable pair of rollerblades to learn on. While affordable, the Zetrablade is durable and straightforward, giving you a smooth ride every time.
Overall comfort was a deciding factor in choosing our top-5 rollerblades – and the Rollerblade Zetrablade didn’t disappoint. Plenty of padding in the training liner and an adjustable fit from the closure system ensures comfort for any skater. Further, the low-balance structure improves balance, control, and lateral support.
These rollerblades are ideal for learning, and will take you from beginner to intermediate in no time. When you are a beginner, balance and control is critical. The Rollerblade Zetrablade features a durable, monocoque frame to give you a lower center of gravity, resulting in optimal stability. Wheels and bindings are also made to set a moderate pace and smooth ride wherever you are learning.
Starting a new hobby or sport can be intimidating, but the Rollerblade Zetrablade is a good place to start. These skates are perfect in just about any condition and for all skill levels.
Rollerblade Zetrablade Key Features:
- High cuff for added support
- Durable, monocoque frame
- 80mm/82A wheels
- SG5 bearings
- Cushioned liner
- Easy and reliable buckle, strap, and lace closure
- Adult, men sizes
Our Runner Up Pick: Bladerunner Advantage Pro XT W
Looking for an all-around great pair of rollerblades that will take you for a comfortable and enjoyable ride? The Bladerunner Advantage Pro XT W may be exactly what you need. These skates came in a close second to our top pick for support and comfort.
One of the top complaints when it comes to rollerblades is inadequate support. The Bladerunner Advantage Pro has a supportive shell structure to make learning how to skate enjoyable. Padding is also a differentiator when it comes to this product. Generous padding in the liner and tongue is designed and strategically placed to cradle your feet comfortably, allowing you to skate longer.
When you are learning to rollerblade, it helps to have wheels that make you feel under control. The Bladerunner Advantage Pro XT W rollerblades come with 80mm wheels to allow for easy turning and their ABEC 7 bearings help them spin freely at a moderate speed.
The Bladerunner Advantage Pro’s closure system takes comfort one step further, providing you with a buckle, power strap, and lace closure system for ultimate security.
Bladerunner Advantage Pro XT W Key Features:
- Supportive shell
- Generous padding in liner and tongue
- 80mm wheels
- ABEC 7 bearings
- Integrated frame
- Closure: Buckle, 45° strap, laces
- Frames: Monocoque Composite
- 6lbs
Best Budget Pick: Roller Derby Stryde Girl’s Adjustable Inline Skates
Why spend a lot of money on rollerblades your kid will grow out of? The Roller Derby Stryde Girl’s Adjustable Inline Skates are affordable, well-designed, and comfortable for your child. A whole hoard of customers also agree, considering these skates boast a 4.7 out of 5 star rating from more than 500 customers.
There are many reasons why Roller Derby Stryde Girl’s Adjustable Inline Skates are a top choice to buy a rollerblading obsessed child. They’re ultra easy to put on and take off. They can also be seamlessly adjusted for the perfect fit via an easy push button. Comfort is also accounted for with a deluxe comfort liner. Other features include its reinforced polymer frame, polyurethane wheels, and gold-5 speed bearing.
Considering there are few high-quality inline skates you can buy for sub-$50, these are an absolute steal. The only downside is that they only come in two sizes: small (fits 11-1) and medium (fit 2-5).
Roller Derby Stryde Girl’s Adjustable Inline Skates Key Features:
- Easy push button adjustable sizing
- Two sizes: small and medium
- Deluxe comfort liner
- Power strap
- White/purple color
- Reinforced polymer frame
- Polyurethane wheels
- Gold-5 speed bearing
Best Youth Rollerblades: XinoSports Inline Roller Skates
When it comes to best all-around youth rollerblades, XinoSports Inline Roller Skates took the prize. Customers have only positive things to say about these skates and all of their innovative and stylish features. From comfort to fun, these rollerblades will give your kid the confidence and security to get outside and skate.
The biggest issue with buying rollerblades for children is that they grow out of them so quickly. With adjustable sizes, you don’t have to worry about investing in a new pair constantly. These sizes allow for plenty of growth – up to four whole sizes! This works simply by opening the outer strap and pressing a blue button on the side.
The XinoSports Inline Roller Skates were engineered with your child’s comfort in mind. A soft foam inner lining provides ankle support and it’s sturdy frame will not break or bend. ABEC-7 bearings and eight 70mm 82A polyurethane wheels ensure a smooth, quiet, and safe ride.
Your kid will love the stylish features of these blades. They come in pink or blue and have wheels that flash red, blue, and green LED lights as they spin – no batteries required!
XinoSports Inline Roller Skates Key Features:
- Two adjustable sizes
- 3-part closure
- Soft foam inner lining
- Rust-resistant aluminum frame
- Eight 70mm 82A polyurethane wheels
- Illuminating LED wheels
- ABEC-7 bearings
- 6-day money back warranty
Best Urban Rollerblades: Rollerblade Twister 80 Urban Inline Skates
Urban skating is a great way to get around the city and perform tricks. The Rollerblade Twister 80 Urban Inline Skates have all of the features you need to take your blading to the next level. These rollerblades are for people with advanced to expert experience who want a skate that’s tough, quick, and comfortable.
If you’ve been rollerblading for a while, you know what skate features give you your desired performance. The Rollerblade Twister 80 Urban Inline Skates were made to give you ultimate power and control in any condition. This is primarily due to features such as 4x80mm 85a supreme wheels and Twincam ILQ-7 Plus bearings.
A specialized 5-star fit liner will hug your feet comfortably while allowing you to quickly navigate between pedestrians. Additionally, these blades feature the Hot Rod Aluminum Frame that helps with transferring the energy of each stride to maximize speed and mobility.
Rollerblade Twister 80 Urban Inline Skates Key Features:
- Iconic rib molded design
- Hot Rod Aluminum Frame
- 4x60mm 85a supreme wheels
- Twincan ILQ-& Plus bearings
- Heat-moldable foams and shock-absorbing material
- Closure system: cuff locking buckle, 45 degree buckle and laces
- Skill Range: advanced intermediate – expert
Who Should Buy Rollerblades
Rollerblading is a fun way for both adults and children to get outside and improve their overall health. If you are looking for a unique family activity that includes everyone, purchasing rollerblades is a great option. Rollerblading will allow you to ride through surrounding neighborhoods, parks, and even stop by local coffee shops or farmers markets.
Physical health is a major benefit of rollerblading. If you are sick of spending money on a gym membership, purchasing a pair of rollerblades is a great alternative. On average, inline skating burns about 350 calories per hour – not to mention the lean muscle it helps build.
Urban skating is another reason to buy blades. Rollerblading is a great way to save on gas and make your commute more enjoyable. You can move quickly through groups of people on your way to the grocery store, work, or to meet friends. The urban skating scene is also skilled at performing tricks and other more advanced moves.
Important Features to Consider
A pair of rollerblades should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting rollerblades:
- Gender. Rollerblades are made differently depending on age and gender. For instance, women’s inline skates are typically more narrow than men’s and youth sizes are often made to be adjustable to leave room for foot growth.
- Liners. The liner of your rollerblade is an extremely important feature to consider as it directly impacts the overall fit and comfort of your skate. There are four general types of liners to consider: standard, auto-fit, memory-fit, and heat moldable. Standard is typically the best option for entry level skaters as it offers basic comfort and padding. Auto-fit and memory-fit are often chosen by intermediate to advances skaters as they form to your feet over-time and are usually more expensive.
- Cuffs. Cuffs provide support while you skate and will give you more power in your stride. The two main types of cuffs are plastic/high cuff or carbon/low cuff. A plastic cuff is often used in recreational rollerblades and is durable and responsive. Carbon cuffs on the other hand are most often found in advanced skates that are used for marathon or race purposes.
- Closure system. There are many types of closure systems to choose from including lace, velcro, and buckles. What you choose is based on personal preference and comfort.
- Frames. Frames are usually made out of plastic, aluminum, or carbon and should be chosen based on stiffness, weight, and durability. Plastic frames work great for entry level skaters while carbon is typically found in more advanced rollerblades. Aluminum is a good in-between, or intermediate option.
- Wheels & bearings. Wheels and bearings are an essential part of your rollerblades and determine the smoothness and speed of your ride. Most wheels are made of polyurethane as plastic and other material crack easily. As for wheel size and bearing type, it will depend on your skill level and size of skate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are rollerblades and how do they work?
Rollerblades, or inline skates, are a modern take on the traditional roller skate. Rather than having two wheels on each side, rollerblades feature a row of wheels in a single line. Rollerblades are comprised of a boot that is attached to a frame where wheels are in place. These wheels include bearings which allow them to spin freely with each stride.
Are roller skates or rollerblades easier?
It depends what you want to do. Roller skates are better for skating indoors at a rink. This is because they are good at making sharp turns but have trouble going over rocks and other objects you will find outside. Their bulkiness and wheel layout also offer more stability which is good for learning.
Rollerblades (or inline skates) are desired for skating outside and for speed. Their smaller side profile make it easier to navigate crowds and objects that might get in the way.
What’s the difference between inline skates and rollerblades?
Inline skating and rollerblading are often used interchangeably. While this can cause confusion, they are actually both terms for the same thing. Think of rollerblades as the Kleenex of inline skating. “Inline skating” is the generic term and “rollerblading” was coined due to the brand Rollerblade who is a leading manufacturer of inline skates.
Do rollerblades fit like a shoe?
Your shoe size is typically a good indicator of the size of rollerblade you need. When looking for a pair of rollerblades, you want them to fit comfortably. If you get them too small, you risk getting blisters. Getting them too big will leave you at a higher risk of injury and imbalance in general.
Other Rollerblades We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other rollerblades. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best rollerblades list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for getting exercise outside. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Youth Rollerblades
2PM SPORTS Torinx Inline Skates
Your kid will love the 2PM SPORTS Torinx Inline Skates. These skates make learning to skate enjoyable with features such as an aluminum frame and rubber stopper for comfort and control. And with 4 adjustable sizes, these blades will stay with your child for years.
Key Features:
- 4 adjustable sizes
- Aluminum frame & rubber stopper
- ABEC-7 bearings
- Triple protection closure system includes laces, strap, and buckle
Cost: $60
Otw-Cool Adjustable Inline Skates
The Otw-Cool Adjustable Inline Skates get some serious style points. These kid-friendly skates are lightweight, size adjustable, and have a safe, triple closure system – not to mention wheels that light up when you roll!
Key Features:
- Adjustable sizes
- Lightweight wheels with illuminating lights
- 82A PU smooth wheels
- ABEC-7 bearings
- Safe closure system includes rachet buckle, velcro strap and laces
Cost: $49
PAPAISON SPORTS Adjustable Inline Skates
These blades are perfect for youth of all ages who want to learn to rollerblade with style. The PAPAISON SPORTS Adjustable Inline Skates have high-rebound polyurethane wheels for smooth rides indoors and outdoors. They also come with professional skate socks to get the best fit.
Key Features:
- Adjustable sizes
- Illuminating wheels
- High-rebounded 82A polyurethane wheels
- Professional skate socks included
Cost: $57-$60
Rollerblade Phoenix Bladerunner
If your looking for a practical pair of rollerblades with all of the necessary features, the Rollerblade Phoenix Bladerunner could be the perfect fit. These blades come with adjustable sizes to grow with your kid, high cuffs for stability, and a triple closure system.
Key Features:
- 4 adjustable sizes
- 72mm wheels and ABEC 3 bearings
- Durable integrated frame
- Buckle, 45° strap, laces
- High cuffs
Cost: $65-$91
Wooltime Sports Adjustable Inline Skates
The Wooltime Sports Adjustable Inline Skates make the perfect kid’s present. These blades are both affordable and functional – with some added fun from the illuminating wheels.
Key Features:
- 4 adjustable sizes
- Illuminating wheels
- Safe closure system includes rachet buckle, velcro strap and laces
- Aluminum alloy frame
Fitness Rollerblades
5th Element ST-80 Urban Inline Skates
The 5th Element ST-80 Urban Inline Skates were made for performance. A lightweight, rockered frame and 80mm wheels make this skate fast and comfortable, so you can get the most out of your session.
Key Features:
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Ratcheted ankle strap and rockered frame provide stability and comfort for strenuous skating
- Traditional lacing system
- 80mm wheels and the 84A durometer
Cost: $140-$150
The Bladerunner Advantage Pro XT is a great fitness rollerblade for new skaters. With plenty of support and a great wheel/bearing system, you will enjoy learning while also getting a solid workout.
Key Features:
- Supportive shell – good for learning
- 80mm wheels
- ABEC-7 bearings
- Built-in composite frame design allows the skate to be closer to the ground for a lower center of gravity
Cost: $71-$111
LIKU Professional Roller Inline Skates
The LIKU Professional Roller Inline Skate’s sleek black look isn’t the only cool thing about these skates. They also come with helpful features such as a removable lining and integrated shell and frame system.
Key Features:
- Removable lining designed for ventilation
- Integrated shell and frame system with a low balance structure improves balance, control and lateral support
- Aluminum alloy tool holder and non rust bearings
- Triple protection closure
Cost: $99
The Rollerblade Maxxum 100 is great for intermediate-advanced skaters who want to take their hobby to the next level. While pricier, this pick has all of the bells and whistles of a noteworthy pair of blades including a molded shell and v-cut shaped cuff.
Key Features:
- Molded shell is a vented boot that envelops your foot to ensure support w/ breathability
- V-cut shaped cuff for versatility
- Memory foam padding
- 2 micro-adjustable buckles and lace closure system assures optimal fit
- High-quality hydrogen 100mm & 90mm/85A wheels
- SG9 bearings
Cost: $270-$460
Rollerblade 110 Fitness Inline Skates
Another exceptional rollerblade is the Rollerblade 110 Fitness Inline Skate. Rollerblade doesn’t skimp on quality gear, and this rings true for this model. Strategically placed padding and a molded shell are just a couple reasons why this inline skate stands out.
Key Features:
- Molded boot 3WD skate
- RB molded shell provides exceptional lateral support and is vented for breathability
- Padded training liner
- Dual buckle and lace closure
- 110mm/85A wheels
- SG7 bearings
Men’s Rollerblades
K2 Kinetic 80 Pro Inline Skates
The K2 Kinetic 80 Pro Inline Skate is a great option for men who are looking to learn the sport and get some exercise. The straightforward design and stability features make these blades a great introduction model.
Key Features:
- External stability plus cuff
- The Original SoftBoot construction allows for greater comfort and ventilation
- Speed lacing system
- Ankle and cuff strap
Cost: $80-$130
Looking for an all-around great pair of rollerblades for learning or casual skating? The Rollerblade 2015 Macroblade Inline Skates are worth considering. The supportive system and form-fitting liner ensure comfort and control – allowing you to pick it up quickly and focus on the fun parts.
Key Features:
- Supportive Macroblade upper structure coupled with a super comfortable form fitting precision liner
- 280mm Aluminum frame 4x90mm/85A
- 5 star fit liner and training footbed
- SG9 bearings
Cost: $130
Rollerblade Men’s Maxxum 90 Skates
The eye-catching green colors of the Rollerblade Men’s Maxxum 90 Skates aren’t the only stand out feature these rollerblades have. Flexible, lightweight cuffs and a shock absorbing heel allow you to quickly maneuver around people as you roll past in style.
Key Features:
- Flexible lightweight cuffs
- Shock absorbing heel
- 165mm frame mounting
- Laterally adjustable
Cost: $160-$521
Roller Derby Men’s V-Tech Adjustable Inline Skates
The Roller Derby Men’s V-Tech Adjustable Inline Skates are perfect for both teenagers who are still growing and adult men who wear sizes 6-9. Urethane wheels enable you to skate both indoors and out smoothly.
Key Features:
- Adjustable sizing – accommodates men’s sizes 6-9
- Lightweight design
- Triple buckle closure
- Indoor/outdoor urethane wheels and top-of-the-line Bevo Gold-7 Race rated bearings
Cost: $50
5th Element Panther Rollerblades
The 5th Element Panther Rollerblades check all of the boxes when it comes to necessary features. You can pretty much go everywhere comfortably with these blades due to their soft boot construction and lightweight design.
Key Features:
- Soft boot construction with traditional laces provide a lightweight feel as you ride
- 82mm wheels
- 82A durometer allows you to skate both indoors and out
- Lock in with traditional laces, a buckle and hook and loop strap
Women’s Rollerblades
Rollerblade Zetrablade – Women’s
The Rollerblade Zetrablade isn’t just for men – the women’s version is equally awesome. Just like our top pick, this version has all the best features including SG5 bearings, high cuffs, and a durable frame.
Key Features:
- High cuff for added support
- Durable, monocoque frame is integrated with the shell for a lower center of gravity to enhance stability, balance and control
- Rollerblade 80mm/82A wheels
- SG5 bearings
Cost: $80-$130
The Blian Adult Inline Skates look a little out of the 80’s – and that’s not a bad thing. These skates come with modern features including adjustable sizes, switchable brakes, and a triple closure system.
Key Features:
- Adjustable sizes
- Switchable brakes
- Triple closure system
- PU smooth wheels
- ABEC-7 bearings& aluminum bracket
Cost: $80
These blades are an affordable option for youth and women. With adjustable sizing and indoor/outdoor wheels, you will have these blades for awhile and can take them anywhere.
Key Features:
- Adjustable sizing – accommodates women’s sizes 6-7
- Lightweight design
- Triple buckle closure
- Indoor/outdoor urethane wheels and top-of-the-line Bevo Gold-7 Race rated bearings
Cost: $40
Roller Derby AERIO Inline Skates
The Roller Derby AERIO Inline Skates are great for going fast. Advanced features such as memory foam padding, 80mm elite speed wheels, and aluminum tri-coils, will help you take your hobby to the next level.
Key Features:
- Soft boot design
- Memory foam padding
- Locking cam lever buckles
- Aluminum tri-coils
- 80mm elite speed wheels
- Bevo Gold 7 Race rated bearing
Cost: $51-$80
Rollerblade Women’s Macroblade
The Rollerblade Women’s Macroblade skates are stylish and functional. These blades are best for skaters who have some experience as they are more expensive and technical. With features such as a form-fit liner and 3 wheel drive, you won’t want to stop rolling – and you won’t have to.
Key Features:
- 3 wheel drive
- Lightweight shell
- Ideal mix of flex and lateral support to enable longer skating sessions
- Comfortable athletic shoe form fit liner
- 110mm/85A wheels
Cost: $196-$722
