Outdoor roller skating is an energizing and enjoyable activity that allows individuals to embrace the freedom of gliding along scenic paths, street skating skate parks, and sidewalks. Best roller skates can be used indoors on smooth surfaces like roller rinks or outdoors on streets and sidewalks.
They are popular among people of all ages for recreational skating, roller derby, artistic skating, and other activities involving gliding or performing wheel tricks. Modern roller skates come in various styles and designs, from traditional quad skates to inline skates with a single line of wheels aligned in a row. Fortunately, roller skate wheels have a durometer rating that indicates which surface they're best suited for.
What are Roller Skates?
Roller skates are footwear with wheels attached to the bottom, designed to enable the wearer to move smoothly and swiftly across various surfaces. These wheeled shoes have a long history and have been used for recreation, sports, and transportation. The typical design consists of a boot or shoe with a frame-mounted underneath, and each frame holds four wheels, two in the front and two in the back.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, finding the perfect outdoor roller skates can significantly enhance your skating experience. From smooth rides to durable construction, outdoor roller skates are designed to withstand various terrains and weather conditions while providing maximum comfort and performance. In this guide, we'll explore the top picks for the best outdoor roller skates, ensuring that you make an informed choice and embark on countless adventures with confidence and style.
Buying Guide for Best Outdoor Roller Skates
Roller skating outside is a thrilling and enjoyable hobby that lets you glide while enjoying the beautiful outdoors. When choosing the best outdoor roller skates, several factors come into play to ensure you find the perfect pair that suits your needs and preferences. Here's a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision:
Type of Roller Skates:
Quad Skates: Traditional quad skates have two pairs of wheels, one in the front and one in the back, which provide stability and maneuverability. They are well-suited for recreational outdoor skating and are great for beginners.
Inline Skates: Inline skates, or rollerblades, have a single line of wheels in a row. They offer better speed and are suitable for more experienced skaters or those interested in fitness skating.
Boot and Material Quality:
Look for roller skates with high-quality and durable boot materials, such as synthetic leather or suede that can withstand outdoor elements and provide ample support for your ankles and feet.
Check for reinforced stitching and padding inside the boots to ensure comfort and prevent blisters during prolonged use.
Wheel Type and Size:
Outdoor roller skates require larger and softer wheels to effectively handle uneven terrains like pavements and rough surfaces. Look for wheels with a durometer rating of 78A to 85A for outdoor use.
Consider the wheel diameter, as larger wheels offer better stability and more straightforward navigation over cracks and obstacles.
Bearings:
Bearings determine the smoothness and speed of your roller skates. ABEC ratings indicate the precision and quality of the directions, with higher ratings (ABEC 5, 7, 9) representing smoother and faster rolling. Look for bearings with rubber seals or shields to protect them from dust and debris during outdoor use.
Closure System:
Roller skates typically come with various closure systems such as laces, straps, or buckles. Select a closure mechanism that allows you to change the tightness simply and provides a secure and comfortable fit.
Ankle Support:
Adequate ankle support is essential for outdoor skating, especially for beginners or those prone to ankle injuries. Look for roller skates with high-top boots that provide stability and prevent ankle twisting.
Brake System:
If you're a beginner, consider roller skates with a reliable braking system. Some skates have a toe stop in front (quad skates) or a heel brake (inline skates) that allows you to stop safely and efficiently.
Size and Fit:
Ensure the roller skates fit snugly but not too tight. Measure your foot size accurately and refer to the manufacturer's size chart to find the right fit. Consider wearing thick socks during fitting to get a more accurate idea of the fit.
Budget Considerations:
Set a budget range for your roller skates. While investing in high-quality skates offers affordable options for better performance and longevity, there are also affordable options providing decent performance for recreational skating.
By considering these things and conducting thorough research, you can find the best outdoor roller skates that suit your skill level, style, and comfort requirements. High-quality outdoor roller skates will ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable skating experience as you explore the world on wheels.
Moxi - Lolly - Women Roller Skate
Moxi - Lolly - Women Roller Skate
These roller skates are hand-made using a soft suede leather material that can be broken in with minimal discomfort.
Why We Think It's Kewl
The Moxi Lolly Womens Roller Skates are the best choice for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors while skating in style. This pair of roller skates feature a comfortable and stylish high-top boot made with soft suede leather that molds quickly to your feet for an optimal fit. The adjustable lacing system makes lace up the skates easy, and an extra padded tongue ensures a snug but comfortable fit.
The high-impact PowerDyne Thrust nylon plate with strong metal trucks offers plenty of support, while the ABEC-5 steel bearings provide smooth rolling with minimal friction. The Moxi Classic 65mm x 35mm outdoor wheels offer added stability and control over uneven surfaces, making navigating any terrain easy.
Finally, the high-top boot provides extra ankle support to prevent sprains and twists during outdoor excursions. The Moxi Lolly Womens Roller Skates come in various vibrant colors to show off your style while skating outdoors.
Kewl Facts You Should Know
The Moxi Lolly Womens Roller Skates are perfect for those looking for a reliable and stylish pair of outdoor skates. These are the best option for any roller skating enthusiast due to the superior support, comfortable fit, and premium materials that go into making them.
Whether you're just starting or an experienced skater, the Moxi Lolly Womens Roller Skates will keep your feet safe and provide a smooth, enjoyable riding experience during outdoor excursions. With the variety of vibrant colors available, you can also show off your unique style while enjoying the great outdoors.
Pros
- Soft suede shell breaks in easily
- Wide, soft wheels
- Durable
Cons
- Expensive
- It may not be padded enough for some
Moxi Skates - Panther
Why We Think It's Kewl
The Moxi Skates Panther is perfect for any fun and fashionable roller skating enthusiast. The natural suede upper is drum-dyed and hand-sorted to provide a durable, stylish look with plenty of abrasion resistance on rigid surfaces.
The quick lace mechanism on these adjustable skates makes it simple to adapt them to your foot, while the padded tongue and curved collar make it easy to put them on for a secure fit. The high-impact Marvel die-cast aluminum plates with strong metal trucks offer plenty of support, while the ABEC-5 steel ball bearings provide smooth rolling with minimal friction.
The 58mm 78A hardness wheels add extra cushioning and are designed to reduce friction for a smoother ride. Additionally, the boot has a high, snug fit with extra ankle padding for solid support and protection against sprains and twists while skating outdoors. Lastly, the sleek black design is accented with a panther-print lining and laces to give your roller skates an edgy look that will get you noticed.
Kewl Facts You Should Know
The Moxi Skates Panther roller skates are perfect for those who need a reliable and stylish pair of outdoor skates. These are the best option for any roller skating enthusiast due to the superior support, comfortable fit, and premium materials that go into making them.
Whether you're just starting or an experienced skater, the Moxi Skates Panther keeps your feet safe and provides a smooth, enjoyable riding experience during outdoor excursions. With the sleek black design, panther-print lining, and laces, you can also show off your unique style while enjoying the great outdoors.
Pros
- Soft suede shell breaks in easily
- Responsive wheels absorb shock well
- Padding around the ankles
Cons
- Not for indoor skating
- Only one color option
Impala Quad Skate - Marawa Rose Gold
Impala Quad Skate - Marawa Rose Gold
Aluminium alloy trucks and baseplate , 58mm 82a durometer nylon core urethane wheels . ABEC 7 bearings
Why We Think It's Kewl
The Impala Marawa Rose Gold Quad Skate is perfect for any fashion-forward roller skating enthusiast. This pair of adjustable quad skates features a classic high-top design in rose gold that adds a sophisticated touch to your ensemble. The metal speed lace eyelets ensure a secure fit, while the PVC upper, heel, and sole provide optimal comfort and durability.
The aluminum alloy trucks and baseplate offer superior support and stability, while the ABEC 7 bearings provide a smooth and fast ride experience. The PU brake stopper provides instant stopping power, ensuring you can stop safely and quickly when necessary. This vegan-friendly skate is also PETA-approved, making it suitable for everyone who wants to enjoy outdoor roller skating.
The Impala Marawa Rose Gold Quad Skate is the best choice for anyone who wants to make a bold statement on wheels. The sleek design and classic style will make you look effortlessly cool while enjoying the great outdoors with friends, family, or yourself.
Kewl Facts You Should Know
Anyone looking for a dependable and stylish set of outdoor skates may consider the Impala Marawa Rose Gold Quad Skate. The high-quality materials, comfortable fit, and superior support make these the perfect roller skating shoes.
Whether you're just starting or an experienced skater, the Impala Marawa Rose Gold Quad Skates provide a smooth, enjoyable experience during outdoor trips. The bold rose gold color and sleek design will turn heads while you skate outdoors.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Wide range of fun colors
- High-quality construction
Cons
- It may need to be broken in
- Limited men's size range
Roller Derby Roller Star 600 Women's Roller Skates - White/Mint
Roller Derby Roller Star 600 Women's Roller Skates - White/Mint
Freestyle comfort fit boot with padded lining, reinforced heel support, and lace closure
Why We Think It's Kewl
The Roller Derby Star 600 Women's Roller Skates is perfect for any roller skating enthusiast. This pair of skates feature a lightweight and flexible Freestyle comfort fit boot with padded lining, reinforced heel support, and lace closure to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. The RTX Pro Chassis provides actual trucks and cushions that offer precision turning so you can maneuver quickly and smoothly.
The 56 mm Urethane wheels work on multiple surfaces for a smooth ride, while the G-Force 608ZB (carbon) bearings provide extra speed and agility. The boot is available in Women's U.S. shoe sizes 5-11, making it suitable for most female skaters. Lastly, the beautiful white and mint design adds a stylish flair, making these skates perfect for any outdoor adventure.
Kewl Facts You Should Know
The Roller Derby Star 600 Women's Roller Skates are ideal for anyone looking for reliable and fashionable outdoor skates. The lightweight materials, comfortable fit, superior support, and rugged construction make these the perfect roller skating shoes.
Whether you're just starting or an experienced skater, the Roller Derby Star 600 Women's Roller Skates will provide a smooth and enjoyable ride during outdoor excursions. The white and mint color scheme will make you look fashionable while enjoying the outdoors.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable fit
- Hybrid wheels
- Stylish color combinations
- Lined with soft padding
Cons
- Not ideal for intermediate or expert skaters
- It may not be as durable
Roller Derby Elite Driftr Roller Skates
Roller Derby Elite Driftr Roller Skates
High quality brushed suede boot with real suede lining and deluxe comfort padding.
Why We Think It's Kewl
The Roller Derby Elite Driftr Roller Skates are ideal for beginner and intermediate skaters who want a reliable pair of skating shoes without sacrificing style or comfort. These skates feature a high-quality brushed suede boot with padded comfort lining for good ankle support.
The adjustable aluminum chassis has PU cushions to provide precision turning, ensuring you can maneuver quickly and smoothly. The Kemistry Glide 65mm all-purpose wheels are perfect for indoor and outdoor use, while the Bevo Silver-5 Race-Rated chrome bearings offer plenty of speed and agility.
These skates also come with a unique design, available in two color combinations – black skates with black wheels (DriftR) and navy skates with yellow wheels (Carlin). Both styles fit their corresponding shoe sizes, making them convenient for most skaters.
Kewl Facts You Should Know
The Roller Derby Elite Driftr Roller Skates are perfect for any beginner or intermediate skater who wants a reliable pair of skating shoes without sacrificing style or comfort. The adjustable aluminum chassis, PU cushions, Kemistry Glide 65mm wheels, and Bevo Silver-5 Race-Rated chrome bearings ensure a smooth and comfortable ride during outdoor adventures.
Pros
- Adjustable aluminum chassis with PU cushions
- Hybrid wheels
- Good ankle stability
Cons
- May run narrow
- Mold to your feet over time
FAQs
What are the benefits of outdoor roller skates?
Outdoor roller skates provide a smooth ride, excellent maneuverability, and stability on different terrains. They can also be used for other activities like skating in parks, streets, or trails. In addition to this, they are often less expensive than their inline counterparts and require less maintenance.
What should I consider when buying outdoor roller skates?
When shopping for outdoor roller skates, there are several factors to remember. First, you should select a pair that offers the right level of support and comfort. You should also consider material, wheel size, bearing quality, and boot design. Lastly, make sure the skates match your skill level and style of skating.
What is the best outdoor roller skate?
Many great options are available for outdoor roller skates, but two of our top picks are the Roller Derby Roller Star 600 Women's Skates and the Roller Derby Elite Driftr Skates. Both offer great value for money, with durable construction and reliable performance. They also come in stylish designs that are perfect for any outdoor adventure.
Can I use indoor roller skates for outdoor skating?
Indoor roller skates typically have smaller, harder wheels designed for smooth, polished indoor surfaces like roller rinks. While you can use them outdoors, they may perform poorly on rough terrains. Investing in outdoor roller skates with more prominent and softer wheels is best for a more comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience.
How often should I replace the wheels and bearings of my outdoor roller skates?
The frequency of wheel and bearing replacements depends on the quality of the components and how frequently you use the skates. Generally, wheels can last between 6 months to a year, while bearings may last longer with proper maintenance. Regularly clean and lubricate the bearings to prolong their lifespan.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best outdoor roller skates is decision that can significantly enhance your skating adventures and overall experience. By considering essential factors, you can make an informed and confident purchase.
Whether you opt for quad or inline skates, the right pair of outdoor roller skates will provide smooth gliding, excellent maneuverability, and stability to tackle various terrains. With durable construction, comfortable fit, and reliable performance, these skates will accompany you on countless outdoor excursions, making your roller skating journey enjoyable and thrilling.
