These two are highly similar as they have four wheels. However, roller skates’ wheels are in front and the back – two pairs for both sides, giving it a more balanced feel. On the other hand, rollerblades’ wheels are put in a line, where one wheel is placed behind the other.
Even though they are similar, the difficulty level would be a little different, especially if it’s going to be for kids. As parents, we want to choose the safest roller skates for kids. But before you do that, read this article, as it will enlighten you on which will be easier for a kid to ride.
Design and Build
On the other hand, roller skates look more like shoes with wheels attached to them, while rollerblades look more like skates.
The wheels are usually made of rubber as it gives a more durable feel. However, the affordable ones have plastic wheels on them. Although it’s cheaper, it could easily break, especially when the user isn’t careful.
The brakes are also placed in different places. Roller skate brakes are in front, so kids must put pressure on their toes if they wish to stop. The rollerblades’ brake mechanism is at the heel. When it comes to padding, rollerblades tend to offer more. Kids won’t feel the brace of the wheels attached to the rollerblades.
Their soft feet will have a gentler ride. Since roller skates don’t provide the same padding as rollerblades, your kids will feel more pressure on their feet, resulting in calluses. If you want to give them roller skates, add more padding.
Support
Roller skates offer support; however, the ankle support isn’t as great as rollerblades’. This doesn’t mean that rollerblades can provide the best ankle support to your child because roller skates’ support is enough for their weak ankles, giving them safety.
Wheel Size and Speed
Bigger wheels accelerate slower but have a higher top speed than smaller wheels. Since roller skates accelerate slower, they can be a workout tool for you and your child.
Your child will have a hard time gaining speed with roller skates. This will make it easier for them to ride on and, at the same time, be safe. However, rollerblades can provide them with speed quickly.
Stability
The beauty of roller skates is the baseplates. They are on the bottom of the shoe, where the trucks and wheels are connected. Since there’s a baseplate, it would feel more stable to ride on.
Flexibility
However, it’s not the turning your kid needs to focus on; they also need to practice their balance.
Roller skates can provide flexibility but not as much as rollerblades. You need to loosen the trucks to turn faster and easier. Remember that the tighter the trucks are, the more stable their ride will be.
Final Thoughts
You may need to check on them in their practice and try to adjust the trucks as they improve on their routine. Remember to add padding to make it more comfortable for your child when using them.
On the other hand, if they have more experience with roller skates, rollerblades would be a significant upgrade. They would be faster and more flexible. They need to ensure that they have practiced balancing and can keep up with speed.
oh i thought i might be the only one wondering this! lol was too scared to ask
ReplyDeleteMy son just discovered roller skating and loves it! He wants to try rollerblading too, but I assumed it would be more difficult. This is a great list of the benefits/differences with each - thanks!
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