Want to Start Rollerblading? Here’s the Gear You Need to Stay Safe and Have Fun

Rollerblades feature four wheels in a single line, and they’re my favorite type of skate. I tested the Rollerblade Zetrablade W for weeks, and I was so impressed with the quality. The wheels glide flawlessly across my driveway, and I have no problem using the brake on the rear right skate to stop (it actually sticks out far enough that I don’t have to tip my foot back too far to stop).

My favorite features are the plush boot and multiple adjustability options for a secure, comfy fit. The liner is so cozy that I almost forget I’m wearing skates. On the upper, there’s a Velcro strap, bungee ropes, and an adjustable buckle on the high cuff.

These skates come in women’s sizes 6 to 10 and are a fantastic option for someone who wants to start with a pair of rollerblades. These rollerblades also come in a men’s style.

The quad design came about in the late 1800s and remains popular today. Quad skates feature four wheels, just like rollerblades, but the wheels are arranged in a rectangular pattern, with two in front and two in back. We love the classic look of the Impala Quad Skate, which come in five colors, including bright lavender, neutral black, and silver, and kids’, women’s, and men’s sizes. (The whole family could match!)

Unlike rollerblades, where only one skate has a brake in the back, quads feature a brake on both skates in the front. The brakes and wheels are made with the same durable nylon and polyurethane materials, so you can expect them to last a long time.

Introduce your kids to rollerblading with these adorably bright and cool inline skates. We appreciate the many adjustability options, including the ability to expand to four different sizes, that provide a secure fit for years as small feet grow. “They have laces and two straps, and I’m able to get them tight enough that my daughter’s feet don’t wobble (protecting her ankles) while still being comfortable for her,” said editor Ashley Ziegler, adding that she loved these skates so much she plans to purchase a second pair for her younger daughter. The cushioned liner and tongue hold feet securely and comfortably in place, whether at the rink or in the driveway.

Choose from three adjustable sizes and options for boys.

I’m pretty sure there’s a picture of my mom from the ‘70s wearing quad skates like this. The classic high-top design supports ankles, while a lace-up closure gives young skaters a proper fit. Kids will appreciate the cushioned liner that absorbs shock, giving them a smooth ride. The skates are available in two main sizes: a small, which adjusts from sizes 12k/j to 2, and a medium, which adjusts from sizes 3 to 6, providing kids with years of use.

The biggest accident I’ve ever had while skating is when I was longboarding to class in college and hit a water hose. I fell forward to the sidewalk, knocked out my two front teeth, and blood went everywhere — it wasn’t pretty. Fortunately, I’ve never had a serious accident while roller skating, but that day taught me a huge lesson: Never do any type of skating activity without a helmet. I was lucky I wasn’t more seriously injured.

Rollerblading is a great workout, so you can expect to sweat. This Triple Eight helmet is available in four sizes, features high-impact-absorbing foam, and has a plush terry cloth liner that absorbs sweat, preventing it from stinging your eyes or itching your skin while roller skating. The helmet comes with thinner liners, but the company also includes thicker liners. Plus, it meets CPSC bike safety standards and ASTM International skating safety standards.

I like to swing my arms while skating to move faster, so elbow pads that don’t hinder my movement are important. The 187 Killer Pads Elbow Pads are form-fitting and cradle your elbow as you move. We love how the durable foam absorbs hard impacts and the sturdy nylon material withstands falls. Choose from sizes extra-small to extra-large (Tip: To find the circumference around your elbow, use a soft tape measure or piece of string).

The best kind of knee pads for skating are the ones you forget you have on, which is why we love these Triple Eight knee pads. They have a heavy-duty, lightweight foam, adjustable straps for a proper fit, and a reinforced bottom panel for added protection around the knee. A sculpted cap protects your knees if (or, if you’re like me, when) you fall. These knee pads come in sizes extra-small to extra-large and work for cycling, too.

The FILA Kids Protective Gear Tri-Pack includes nearly everything kids need to stay safe while rollerblading: two wrist guards, two knee pads, and two elbow pads. They all feature adjustable straps for a customizable fit and stretchy material that accommodates various body sizes without compromising comfort. This set is best for kids weighing less than 55 pounds and between 4 and 4.5 feet tall.

Whether it’s her birthday or we’re celebrating Christmas, my 17-year-old niece always seems to have these leggings on her wishlist. I’ve purchased several pairs for her because she swears they’re incredibly cozy, and the side pocket is just the right size for her phone or other small items. She also appreciates how they don’t fall down — an important feature because the last thing you want while roller skating is to fuss with your pants. They come in a wide array of sizes and more than 50 colors and styles.

Check out our picks for the best workout leggings.

Merino wool socks are a solid apparel choice for rolleblading because they wick away moisture from the skin. These Darn Tough socks strike a balance between keeping your feet warm in cold weather and preventing them from overheating in the summer or while exercising. They feature high-density cushioning to keep your feet comfy while wearing them with roller skates.

“I love the micro crew height of these socks. As a short person (5'3"), a lot of crew and knee-high socks always hit higher than normal on my legs, so it was nice to finally have a pair of crew socks that hit at the correct spot,” said editor Lili Ladaga. “The merino wool fabric is really breathable and comfortable against my skin — no chafing or hot spots.”

This 100-percent merino wool shirt can help regulate your body temperature by keeping you cool and warm simultaneously. The stretchy fabric is comfortable and moves as you glide across the pavement or rink. Plus, it’s UV-resistant, so you have additional protection from the sun when skating outdoors (combined with sunscreen, of course). The women’s sizes range from extra-small to extra-large, and you can also find men’s sizes.