Children today end up spending a lot of time in the house in front of screens – TVs, smartphones, iPads, you name it. How about getting them a pair of rollerblades that’ll make them want to go outdoors and play? The best rollerblades for youth, and inline skates too, go a long way in reducing their screen time and keeping them busy outdoors. Besides developing their skating skills, it could also prove to be an excellent medium for exercising. Plus, they’ll have fun with their friends, make new ones, and even work on their social skills, which is an important aspect of life today. So, if your child loves the outdoors and needs but a little prodding to go outside, then it might be time to get them a nice pair of rollerblades.
In fact, you might be surprised that there are many rollerblades and inline skates that are so good that our children can get going without any roller skating experience at all. That said, they need to be easy to use and comfortable. Moreover, buying rollerblades for children is completely different from buying them for adults as your children’s feet are constantly growing. Thus, we’ve also come up with a handy buying guide for you to find the right skates and rollerblades for your child’s feet. To that end, here are the 13 best rollerblades and inline skates for youth.
How To Choose The Best Rollerblades for Youth?
Just like there are specific considerations for buying the Best Water Shoes for Kids or even the Best Climbing Shoes for Kids, it’s the same for rollerblades too. So, what should you watch out for when it comes to buying youth rollerblades? Read on.
When it comes to youth rollerblades, their safety is important too. You should also read about the Best Helmets for Rollerblading
Kind of skates
There are different kinds of skates that you can choose for youth
- Recreational Skates – Perfect for outdoor and indoor use, these are great for beginners but suit intermediate and advanced skaters.
- Fitness Skates – Similar to recreational skates, fitness-style skates boast the same shape and design but have specific components such as fancy closure systems and larger wheels.
- Aggressive Skates – These are usually designed for zooming around skating obstacles at skate parks. Featuring squared-off and smaller wheels, these offer excellent control without too much speed. Plus, they have additional padding to handle all the aggressive skating.
- Inline Hockey Skates – Finally, these are designed for traveling quickly between point A and point B. They have larger wheels on a shorter wheelbase, allowing for great speed and quick turns.
Skills
Another aspect tied closely to the kind of skates is the skill level that the youth are at. Most of the best youth inline skates are only offered at the beginner and intermediate levels since children will rarely require an expert level skate at their age. While choosing a skate skill range, ensure that you take into account aspects such as what ability level your child wants to reach, what ability level they’re at, and how often your child will be skating.
Size adjustability
When it comes to the best inline skates for youth, sizing is perhaps the most important factor. Since children’s feet grow very quickly, getting the right skate is a slightly tricky ordeal. For instance, your child might wear a size 7, but after a season, they could jump to a shoe size of 8, thus making the brand new skate as good as unusable. So, try and go for adjustable skates as much as possible, which will allow you to adjust the skate size. In fact, some skates allow adjusting up to as many as four sizes!
Wheels
Most modern rollerblades and inline skates have polyurethane wheels. When looking for rollerblades and skates, there are many factors to consider regarding wheels, the topmost being wheel hardness/softness (durometer) and size. Most youth skates come with an 80A durometer-rated wheel which is great for both indoor and outdoor skating. Moreover, the sizes of wheels for youth skates typically range between 70 and 79 mm. If you’re looking for aggressive skates, then go for wheel sizes between 50 and 59 mm.
Closure type
Finally, we come to the type of closure that’s offered by the best rollerblades for youth. Ideally, youth skates must have a closure that’s easy for them to handle on their own sans any assistance from you. Most youth skates offer a mid-point velcro closure and a buckle clasp top closure that add extra stiffness and support. That said, there are three kinds of closure systems:
- Traditional Laces: They’re just like the laces of regular shoes, but are designed to be more durable than standard eyelets and shoelaces.
- Speedlace System: Typically, speed lace systems come with pull-tab systems where one needs to just grab the lace and pull for getting a comfortable, secure, and tight fit.
- BOA: This easy closure system comes with a front dial that one simply needs to turn for getting a comfy, secure, and nice tight fit.
Which is the best overall youth rollerblade?
Our vote goes to the Rollerblade Fury Adjustable Fitness Inline Skate. Featuring a supportive shell with vented breathability and push-button adjustments, the skates are very comfortable too. This is thanks to the padded performance liner, which also absorbs sweat and ensures a snug fit. Adding to the skate’s amazing performance are the 72mm 80A wheels that ensure controlled speed and the lower center of gravity due to the integrated frame. Finally, the secure closure system with a locking cuff buckle and a power strap make these skates worth it.
XinoSports Inline Skates
13
One of the best rollerblades for youth is the XinoSports Inline Skates, which are great for everyone from beginners to intermediate skaters. Thanks to the dual brakes and the smaller wheels, your child will be able to go at a nice and steady speed and stop easily without tipping over. What’s more, the skates are adjustable up to 4 sizes, which means that they’ll last your child for years and they won’t outgrow them. However, one of the most unique and enjoyable features of these rollerblades is that the LED wheels light up when they move, and they don’t require batteries either! Aside from the brake being non-marking, the wheels are suitable for both indoors and outdoors, and your child will certainly turn heads as they zip down the street or the skate park.
Pros:
- Adjusts across 4 shoe sizes.
- Breathable mesh fabric build.
- Reinforced boot seams for added strength.
- LED light wheels.
Cons:
- The LED wheel lights aren’t rechargeable.
Bladerunner by Rollerblade Phoenix Boys
12
One of the best inline skates for youth who’re juniors is the Bladerunner by Rollerblade Phoenix. In fact, this lineup of rollerblades is excellent for all ages and even features amongst the Best Rollerblades for Hockey. There’s a lot to like about these skates, starting with the fact that it offers various sizes for adjustment for a customized and comfortable fit. What’s more, these inline skates feature a bunch of cool graphics that’ll make heads turn as your children zip down the park or the street. The best part is that they’re available in two youth sizes – 5 to 8 years and 11 years and above. Moreover, it even comes in a bevy of colors paired with black. Overall, it is one high-performing and durable pair of fitness skates for young guns.
Pros:
- Brakes on the inside.
- Features smooth-rolling wheels.
- Stable.
- Comfortable and durable.
Cons:
- Some users mentioned not-so-good wheel quality.
KAQINU Adjustable Inline Skates
11
Available in three colors, the KAQINU Adjustable Inline Skates is one of the best rollerblades for youth. There’s a lot to like about these skates, starting with the fact that they can be adjusted for up to four shoe sizes. So, as your child’s feet grow, the skates accommodate them thanks to the design. The stylishly designed skates feature a set of eight illuminating wheels that automatically light up as your children zip down the street or around the skate park. It’s the perfect pair of skates to get your children out of the house! What’s more, the reliable and durable set of rollerblades sport a reinforced aluminum frame, along with stable shoelaces, durable straps, and a safety buckle. Wrapping up the features are the 82A wheels with ABEC-7 bearings for smooth skating.
Pros:
- Durable and reliable.
- Well-designed.
- Wheels light up.
- Comes with laces and a safety buckle.
Cons:
- The rollerblade straps aren’t of the best quality.
2PM SPORTS Vinal Adjustable Inline Skates
10
One of the best inline skates for youth is the 2PM SPORTS Vinal Adjustable Inline Skates. The fashionable yet effective pair of rollerblades come with a single line of four wheels. Designed from high-grade polyurethane material, the wheels possess a hardness of 82A and can traverse all kinds of terrains, especially when they’re paired with ABEC-7 bearings. What’s more, the wheels light up when you’re rolling smoothly on these skates! Going further, the rollerblades are adjustable over four positions, allowing you to have a precise fit for your child. Finally, the triple closure system helps you tightly secure the skate around your child’s feet, helping them stay steady and maintain balance. With a durable structure and a quality design, these might just be the best skates ever.
Pros:
- Triple closure system.
- Comfortable, quiet, and smooth.
- Has eight illuminating wheels.
- Comes in 4 adjustable sizes.
Cons:
- Axle screws are poor.
Pacer Explorer Youth Inline Adjustable Skates
9
Yet another of the best rollerblades for youth is the Pacer Explorer Youth Inline Adjustable Skates. Adjustable up to four sizes, the skates can be used by your growing children for a good time before they need new ones. Sporting an artificial leather and mesh upper, the skates keep your child comfortable for as long as they’re wearing them. Thanks to the hybrid boot with plush and quality padding, bruises and snares are kept at bay as well. Due to the ankle cuffs and cam-lever buckles, safety isn’t a compromise either, as both provide ankle support and additional cushioning during turns and twists. Moreover, it also has power straps that keep the laces from coming off when your child is skating. Rounding up the features is the sturdy and lightweight chassis that ensures that your children have fun skating.
Pros:
- Features ankle support and extra cushioning.
- Comes in many colors and size adjustments.
- Power straps.
- Lightweight.
Cons:
- The skates run slightly small.
JIFAR Youth Inline Skates
8
One of the best inline skates for youth is the JIFAR Youth Inline Skates. Offered in two sizes and two colors, these inline skates are both stylish and practical. What makes them so great for younger youth is that their wheels light up in a bevy of colors! That should be enough to get your children excited about getting them out of the house. Besides the skates, the package also comes with a wrench and a free bag for you to carry the skates in case of a family vacation out of town. The polyurethane wheels allow for easier turning and testing even when your children are zipping about in speed. Rounding up the features is the lace-up closure that ensures a secure and comfy fit.
Pros:
- Comes with a wrench and a free bag.
- Lace-up closure ensures a comfy and secure fit.
- Come in multiple colors and sizes.
Cons:
- Not very durable.
ITurnGlow Adjustable Inline Skates
7
The pizzazz-oozing ITurnGlow Adjustable Inline Skates is one of the best rollerblades for youth is also one of the Best Rollerblades for Beginners. This rollerblade exudes zing in the form of its wheels that light up as your child zips down the street! Basically, when the wheels roll, the lights come on, powered by the action of the wheels. So, you don’t have to be worried about replacing any sort of batteries when it comes to these skates. Going further, the skates are adjustable for size as well. When combined with a hardness of 82A, the small-sized 64-mm wheels offer superb levels of speed and grip both. That means that there are fewer chances of your child falling down even at higher speeds. Rounding up the features is the comfy and secure hybrid boot that offers a plush base for your child’s feet.
Pros:
- The small wheels are perfect for speed and grip.
- The wheels light up in a throng of colors.
- Available in three colors.
Cons:
- Not very durable.
KGK Inline Skates
6
One of the best inline skates for youth who’re older as well as adults is the KGK Inline Skates. There’s a lot to like about these skates, which are easily adjustable with just a simple push of a button. Available in three sizes of large, medium, and small, the medium sizes of 2-7 are perfect for youth. The rollerblades sit securely around your child’s feet due to the triple-protection system – high-strength buckle, velcro strap, and standard lace closure. If that wasn’t enough, the adjustable wheels even light up when your children zip down the street or around the skate park. Thanks to the breathable inner boot and reinforced aluminum alloy frame, your child is comfortable wearing them throughout the day too. Rounding up the features are durable 82A wheels and ABEC 7 bearings that ensure a smooth ride.
Pros:
- Come in many colors and three sizes.
- Durable.
- Triple-protection closure system.
Cons:
- Expensive.
CHICAGO Skates Inline Adjustable Skates
5
The CHICAGO Skates Inline Adjustable Skates is one of the best rollerblades for youth. Available in two sizes and two colors, these classic skates are adjustable up to four sizes thanks to the multi-size push-button adjustments. Designed for fun, these skates deliver a super performance that is perfect for young speedsters. The boot comes with a nylon mesh inner that allows it to breathe, thus keeping your child comfy all day long. Aside from all of the above, the skate also comes with a power strap, micro ratchet buckle, and speed-lace closures. Wrapping up this skate’s features are the 70 mm 82A high-rebound urethane wheels with ABEC-3 speed bearings.
Pros:
- Stable and speedy.
- Multi-size push-button adjustments.
- Available in two colors and sizes.
Cons:
- No brake pads.
Rollerblade Fury Adjustable Fitness Inline Skate
4
One of the best inline skates for youth is the Rollerblade Fury Adjustable Fitness Inline Skate. There are a lot of reasons why youth, and their parents love these skates. Firstly, the rollerblades feature a supportive shell that comes with vented breathability. But, that’s not all. Thanks to the push button, the skates are adjustable up to as many as four sizes. On the inside, the skates feature a padded performance liner made from a comfortable stretch material that wicks sweat and ensures a snug fit. Plus, the 72mm 80A wheels ensure controlled speed. If that wasn’t enough, the durable integrated frame ensures a lower center of gravity that provides both versatility and stability. Rounding up the features is the secure closure system with a power strap and a locking cuff buckle. They might be expensive, but they’re worth it!
Pros:
- Lower center of gravity for versatility and stability.
- Ensures controlled speed.
- Secure closure system.
Cons:
- Expensive.
K2 Raider Pro Inline Skates
3
One of the best rollerblades for youth is also one of the Best Rollerblades for Exercise – the K2 Raider Pro Inline Skates. These value-for-money rollerblades are perfect for those who’re beginning to experiment with rollerblading. Available in five adjustable sizes, the rollerblades feature a push-button that allows customization of fit for a stable and smooth skating experience. At the same time, the 72mm wheels with an 80A hardness are small enough to enable good speeds, aided by the ABEC 3 bearings all the time. Thanks to the composite frame, the rollerblades are durable and can also absorb road vibrations well, thus keeping your child comfortable. Besides the frame being interlocked with the base, the skates are stable and comfy due to the skate cuff and the neoprene wrap liner, with the standard lacing tying things up nicely.
Pros:
- Absorbs road vibrations.
- Stable skate cuff.
- Adjustable up to 5 sizes.
- 45-degree Velcro power strap.
Cons:
- The speeds are slightly low as compared to the other skates on this list.
Rollerblade Girls Spitfire JR XTG Kids Skate
2
One of the best inline skates for youth juniors is the Rollerblade Girls Spitfire JR XTG Kids Skate. Not only is it comfortable, but it also provides a ton of support and safety as your children zip down the street or the skate park. You and your child will love the plethora of amazing features of the Spitfire, starting with its lightweight build and low-profile design. It’s what makes the rollerblades easy for children to handle. What’s more, the low-profile design allows them to stay closer to the ground, thus providing tons of stability even at greater speeds. Moreover, even the fit is comfy and secure thanks to the high cuff, well-designed padded lining, and the many closure styles. Finally, the 72mm wheels with an 80A hardness and SG3 bearings ensure a noiseless, speedy, and smooth ride even on the bumpiest of boulevards.
Pros:
- Adjustable up to 4 sizes.
- Comfy inner lining.
- Low-profile design and structure.
- Lightweight.
Cons:
- The bearings are of slightly less quality.
K2 Marlee Youth Skate
1
Topping the list of best rollerblades for youth is the K2 Marlee Youth Skate. They’re an excellent pair of skates for keeping your children fit and getting them out for exercise. There’s a lot to like about these high-performing skates, starting with the 90mm large wheels with ILQ-9 bearings. Hence, the children have just the right amount of speed for having fun and staying fit, while being safe as well. What’s more, the Vo2 S-Frame with extended sides is designed from long-lasting, durable, and robust aluminum, so it can withstand all sorts of abuse and roll over all kinds of terrains. Additionally, it also provides a responsive and comfortable ride. Wrapping up the features is the speed-lacing that makes putting on and taking them off easy and the presence of multiple sizes.
Pros:
- Adjustable up to 5 sizes.
- Large and strong rear brake.
- Speed lacing system.
- Replaceable bearings.
Cons:
- None.
