Inline skates have been around since the 1980s and continue to grow in popularity at the time of publication. Recreational skates were one of the first types of inline skates and are the most popular choice among the general public looking for a quality, all-around skate. Aggressive skates are a somewhat newer type of inline skate designed for trick skating on street obstacles and ramps.
Recreational Skates
Recreational inline skates are also sometimes referred to as fitness inline skates. The look and design of "fitness" and "recreational" inline skates are very similar; the main differences are in construction quality and pricing. Fitness skates are a higher-end version of recreational skates built for longer runs. Recreational skates typically feature a comfortable boot secured with laces and/or bindings. Wheel sizes vary from 70 mm to over 100 mm in diameter for recreational skates built for speed. These skates also have a brake on the chassis or frame.
Aggressive Skates
Aggressive inline skates are much different, designed to take a beating, so the boot is heavily reinforced with hard plastic or composite materials like carbon fiber. Aggressive skates feature a wider bottom beneath the boot for grinding and rail slides. The frames are strong and designed for smaller wheels. Wheel sizes are generally in the 55 to 60 mm range, which makes them ideal for maneuvering around a street course or performing tricks on the ramp. There are no brakes on aggressive inline skates.
Difference
The main differences between recreational and aggressive are wheel size, boot durability and braking system. Recreational skates are ideal for general skating purposes both indoors and outdoors, making this variety best for beginners. More experienced skaters interested in doing jumps, tricks, spins, vert ramps and rail slides should consider a pair of aggressive inline skates.
Pricing
As with most products, the price of inline skates is primarily dependent upon quality. At the time of publication, an entry-level recreational skate at a major sporting goods store cost $50 to $100. Fitness and speed inline skates -- both higher-end versions of recreational skates --cost $125 to more than $200. Two of the more popular manufacturers of recreational skates are Rollerblade and K2.
Aggressive inline skates start at around $60 for an entry-level pair and run well-over $300 for a professional pair. Popular aggressive skate manufacturers include Razor, Rollerblade, K2, Remz, Valo and USD.
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