The roller skate was invented in 1735, and early versions of inline skates soon followed. These were long on speed, but short on braking power. Those first inline skates also produced the very first skating related injury, according to the International Inline Skating Association at IISA.org. It took well over 200 years to perfect construction techniques and materials, until inline skating took off in 1984 and continues to gain in popularity.
Types
There are five inline skating disciplines, and each requires a different type of skate for men, women and children. These skating disciplines are aggressive, artistic, fitness and recreation, hockey and speed inline skating. Differences in design and construction customize a skate for its purpose, and include the cut of the boot, boot materials, number of wheels and the degree of ankle support the skate provides. In addition, each type usually has differences that account for your experience level, most often relating to safety features.
Features
All inline skates feature uppers, closures, a frame, wheels and bearings. Uppers include a plastic, synthetic or leather boot, and an inside liner. Closures are composed of either two to five buckles or a lace-up system. A metal, aluminum alloy, nylon or fiberglass frame sits at the bottom of the boot, providing a platform that connects the boot to the wheels. Wheel diameters vary from 55 to 80 millimeters, and each wheel holds seven to eight bearings in its center.
Inline skates that feature brakes usually have a rear-wheel braking system that works by applying pressure using your heel. Typically, inline speed and hockey skates do not include brakes.
Cost
You can expect to pay between $35 and $1,000 for a pair of inline skates, according to the IISA. Within this range, the average cost for a good quality, recreational inline skate averages $110 to $170. The IISA reports that inline skates with higher price tags usually mean more features but not always better quality, and recommends considering this when shopping.
Purchasing
Even if you decide to purchase skates from a retail website, it is still a good idea to try skates on at a few on-site stores. Sizing tends to vary, so your shoe size may not be your inline skate size. A correct fit with one brand may not equate to a correct fit with another brand. Also, remember to bring along the socks you plan to wear with your skates.
Considerations
The Buying Guide for Inline Skates at SkateFAQ.com recommends putting as much consideration into purchasing safety gear as you do into choosing the right inline skate. Include an additional $100 to $150 in your shopping budget for an ANSI or Snell approved bike helmet, along with wrist, elbow and knee pads.
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