For most, it is quite easy to distinguish between roller skates and rollerblades, but there are numerous aspects that many might miss, from different skating styles to the overall scene. Inline skates, also known as roller blades, and quad skates, also called roller skates, differences go beyond mere appearance.
Wheels
The main distinction between rollerblades and roller skates is that rollerblades have wheels aligned in a single line, while roller skates feature two wheels placed side by side.
Inline skates have smaller wheels compared to roller skates. The reduced wheel size makes inline skates quicker but also more challenging to balance on. Roller skates have a broader wheelbase than inline skates, which makes it less probable to topple over sideways when stationary.
Balance
Beginners might opt for quad skates, as the more evenly distributed wheels help with balance. Nonetheless, starting with inline skates is entirely feasible. This is because the boot of an inline skate extends higher up the ankle compared to a quad skate, offering some stability.
Brakes
On most inline skates, a brake is typically located at the back of the frame for quick stops. More advanced models are without a brake. For quads, they come with a toe stop at the front of the skate, which many creative skaters remove and replace with jam plugs, making it easier to spin and perform tricks.
Tricks and Style
Inline skates are more manoeuvrable, making them better suited for tricks, jumps, turns, and stunts. However, if you are heading to a roller disco or want to dance, roller skates are the clear choice. Their short wheelbase and movable trucks make them ideal for quick turns, spins, and movements.
Skating outdoors on roller skates is significantly more difficult than on inline skates, as the roughness of most outdoor surfaces tends to slow down and trip a roller skater more easily than an inline skater. Therefore, if you plan to skate outdoors on roller skates, be sure to choose your skating area with care. Slopes on roller skates are again more challenging than on inline skates, and stopping on quads on slopes is particularly tough.
Various Forms of Skating
Aggressive Inline
Inline skating gained prominence in the 80s and 90s and is more often seen in skate parks or on the streets.
In aggressive skating, skaters perform tricks, jumps, grinds, and spins either on ramps, pipes, etc., in a skatepark or by using obstacles found in a more natural setting such as benches, stair rails, and curbs. Skaters will combine tricks to form a sequence known as a 'run'. Runs involving obstacles are referred to as a 'line'.
This form of skating is excellent for expressing creativity and experimenting with various skill combinations. Additionally, while this sport can be competitive, it can also be enjoyed in a relaxed and free manner, making it an ideal pastime.
Creative/Jam Skating
There are numerous forms of creative skating, including Artistic roller skating and Freestyle skating, but they all fall under the umbrella of creative skating.
Artistic Roller Skatingis a style of roller skating that combines performance and artistic expression. Skaters choreograph routines for performance, which typically showcase skill and creativity, blending elements of dance, gymnastics, and figure skating. Many artistic skaters compete at national and international levels.
Freestyle and Jam Roller Skatingis a type of roller skating that emphasizes individual expression and creativity. Skaters execute choreographed routines that incorporate elements such as jumps, spins, and footwork.
Roller Derby
Roller Derby is a contact sport played on roller skates. It involves two teams of five players skating around a track, with each team attempting to score points by having one player lap the opposing team. It is predominantly played by women, with the first game taking place in 1935.
Speed Skating
Speed Skating can be practiced competitively or for leisure. It is a type of roller skating focused on speed, with many speed skaters competing at national and international levels. Skaters race on specially designed tracks using long-blade skates to reach high speeds. These races can be individual or team events and cover distances ranging from 500 meters to 10,000 meters. Some skaters also use speed skates recreationally, enjoying the thrill of racing.
Aggressive Quad Skating
Aggressive Quad Skating, also known as park skating or street skating, involves roller skating in skate parks or on city streets. Types of tricks performed include using ramps, railings, ledges, and any other obstacles skaters can find. Skaters use specialized roller skates with smaller wheels and a stronger, more durable construction to perform grinds and slides.
Explore our extensive selection of Rollerblades and Roller Skates for Children and Adults.