With most of the world staying home and experimenting with new ways of staying active while isolated, one activity that’s picking up new-founded fame and popularity is rollerblading or roller skating. In fact, a sudden infusion of TikTok videos of people showing off their skating skills has been leading to skates quickly selling out. If you’re indeed going to indulge in roller skating, then you need a good pair of skates. Good rollerblades for exercise and fitness allow you to completely enjoy the activity, even if you’re new to it and picking up skills at the same time. Fitness rollerblades are equally suitable for recreational rides for fun as well as workout purposes. The best ones feature a high level of comfort and a great fit, and are breathable, and feel extremely good on your feet. The best fitness inline skates also can be used by skaters of all ages.
With most of the world in isolation, rollerblading has especially risen in popularity as a form of solo activity. It infuses you with a feeling of happiness and is liberating as a full-body workout choice. According to the Roller Skating International Association, skating burns anywhere between 350 and 600 calories per hour and utilizes every muscle in your body. You’re not only using your shoulders and arms but also your back and your abs for balancing. So, make the best use of these solitudinous times and get the best rollerblades for exercise and fitness.
How To Choose The Best Rollerblades for Exercise?
Choosing the best rollerblades is much like choosing Best Snowshoes for Snowboarding or the Best Walking Shoes For Travel, but with wheels! You need to consider a lot of technical and comfort aspects before you can buy a rollerblade. They’re all listed below.
Meanwhile, you might also want to check out other skating accessories such as the Best Helmets for Rollerblading.
Wheels size and durometer
The wheel size is a rather important aspect when it comes to choosing rollerblades. After all, they’ll decide your speed and center of gravity while you zip down the street or the rink. Wheel size basically comes down to the distance you’d like to cover. For shorter distances for skating in the city, use smaller wheels measuring around 80-84 mm in diameter. They’re more maneuverable and make it easier for you to turn and stop. If you’re rollerblading longer distances, then use larger wheels with a diameter of 90-100 mm, or even more than that. they help you conserve energy and maintain speed at the same time.
Another factor is the hardness or softness factor of the wheels, which is measured in terms of the durometer and indicated with an “A.” The durometer is an indication of the speed, grip, lifespan, and shock-absorbing qualities of the wheels. The lower the A number, the softer the wheels are, and the higher the number, the harder the wheels. Additionally, harder wheels mean higher speed and longer lifespan, but less shock absorption and grip. On the other hand, softer wheels mean better shock absorption and grip, but less speed and a shorter lifespan. For fitness rollerblades, a suitable durometer reading is 78-85A.
Bearings
In addition to the wheel durometer, another factor that’s critical to the performance of the rollerblades is the bearing. Basically, the bearings are important for the ability of the wheel to spin. The higher the ABEC bearing rating, the lesser roll resistance and higher precision you get. So, it makes it easier for you to maintain speed, thus getting a better roll too. Also, it’s important that you treat the bearings well, which means keep your skates away from dirt, sand, moisture, and water as much as possible.
Boots and liners
Since your feet will sit in the boot, you need to choose a boot that depends on your taste and comfort, no matter whether you choose a hard shell or a softshell boot. Hardshell boots typically provide more control and are usually more stable. Softshell boots are better well-ventilated and more comfortable. While most fitness inline skates come with comfy and plush liners, you can also buy separate liners if that’s important to you.
Brake
Even though there are skates that don’t feature brakes, we’d highly recommend you to go for rollerblades that come with pre-mounted brakes. Also, since brakes do undergo wear-and-tear, buy an extra pair right from the start so you always have one spare on you.
Closure system
Finally, we come to the closure system of fitness skates, which usually consist of both laces and buckles. In fact, some rollerblades for fitness even have special wire tightening systems with a simple knob for tightening the brakes. Also, you need to remember that buckles are quicker to close as compared to laces, while laces allow for tightening or loosening the boot according to your comfort. Notwithstanding what you choose, go for a fit that allows you complete and optimum control over your rollerblades.
What’s the difference between three and four-wheeled rollerblades?
While both three and four-wheeled rollerblades are equally great, the real difference is in the speeds. The three-wheel rollerblades are palpably faster than four-wheel ones. However, four-wheel rollerblades are a lot more stable and easier to balance, especially during lift-off when you push out with the blades. So, that makes four-wheel ones a whole lot better to learn skating on. So, we’d recommend that you start off with four-wheel rollerblades if you want to learn or polish your skills. If you’re already at an intermediate level and want to learn speed skating, go with the three-wheel design.
Rollerblade Macroblade 84 ABT (CU)
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One of the good rollerblades for exercise with the best braking system is the Rollerblade Macroblade 84 ABT. Using the patented ABT Braking System, the skates allow all four wheels to stay firmly on the ground as you break. This provides greater stability, control, as well as speed. Moreover, the rear brake on the skate even comes with a height-adjustable mechanism that helps maintain braking power even when it wears down. Perfect for both left and right-footed skaters, the skates boast a twin-blade aluminum frame that allows you to skate smoothly even over bumpy surfaces. With the 84mm performance wheels, you get to fully focus on your body movement than the skates, making for an excellent fitness session. All in all, this is one durable and safe inline skate.
Pros:
- Removable brakes.
- Perfect comfortable and snug fit.
- Available in three different colors.
- Height-adjustable braking mechanism.
Cons:
- The insole is narrow.
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K2 Marlee Youth Skate
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If you’re looking for the best rollerblade for exercise for your children, then consider the K2 Marlee Youth Skate. One of the best rollerblades for fitness, these high-performing skates boast 90mm large wheels with ILQ-9 bearings. Thus, they give kids just the right amount of speed for being safe as well as for having fun and getting fit. Moreover, the Vo2 S-Frame with extruded sides is made from robust and long-lasting aluminum, so you can rest assured that it’ll withstand abuse. Plus, it also provides a comfortable and responsive ride. Rounding up the features is the speed-lacing, which takes just a pull to take off and put on the blade. Available in multiple sizes, this is one skate that’ll get your children off the screen and out of the house!
Pros:
- Replaceable bearings.
- Speed lacing system.
- Strong and large rear brake.
- Adjustable up to five sizes.
Cons:
- Comes only in one color.
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High Bounce Adjustable Inline Skate
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One of the good rollerblades for exercise is the High Bounce Adjustable Inline Skate, which is best for those on a budget. Costing just around $50-70, these adjustable inline skates feature a comfortable and soft inner shell that keeps you easy on your feet no matter how far you’re skating. The smooth-riding gel wheels, meanwhile, help you navigate the bumpiest of surfaces easily, allowing no stress to come to your leg or back muscles. Moreover, the reinforced nylon frame provides oodles of speed, comfort, and stability. The skates are also available in multiple sizes and colors, which makes them perfect for men and women. Wrapping up the features is the adjustable button that conforms to the shape of your feet, enhancing your comfort levels.
Pros:
- Comes in many colors.
- Available in multiple sizes.
- Two easy-to-use buckles.
Cons:
- The sizes run on the smaller side.
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Bladerunner by Rollerblade Pro XT Advantage
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Are you just starting out with skating? One of the Best Rollerblades for Beginners is the Bladerunner Advantage Pro XT, which offers support and comfort, and comes in a sleek design. Featured in multiple color options, the skates boast a composite durable frame that allows you to maneuver the skates easily. Moreover, the 80mm wide wheels have an impressive durometer reading of 78A, complete with ABEC 7 bearings for a speedy as well as smooth ride on all kinds of terrains. The velcro power strap closure, combined with the lace closure and upper buckle provides a secure and comfy closure. Plus, the plush and padded liner wicks moisture and keeps your feet dry and odor-free. Since it comes in multiple sizes, finding the right fit won’t be an issue. Overall, if you’re new to the world of skating, then these should be accompanying you.
Pros:
- Composite robust frame.
- The power strap, lace closure, and upper buckle provide a comfy and supportive fit.
- 80mm wheels are speedy and smooth.
Cons:
- Less amount of ankle support.
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Rollerblade Girls Spitfire JR XTG Kids Skate (CU)
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If you want your children to get off the couch and get some fresh air and exercise, then they need a good pair of rollerblades for exercise and fitness. And there’s no better skate to do that than the Rollerblade Girls Spitfire JR XTG Kids Skate, which is not only comfortable but also provides maximum safety and support. One of the best rollerblades for fitness, the Spitfire has a low-profile design and a lightweight structure that makes them easy for children to handle. Plus, they stay closer to the ground and provide lots of stability. Even the fit is secure and comfortable thanks to the multiple closure styles, well-designed padded lining, and a high cuff. Finally, the 72mm wheels with a hardness of 80A and SG3 bearings ensure a smooth, speedy, and noise-free performance even on the bumpiest of roads.
Pros:
- Ideal for beginners.
- Low-profile for better balance.
- Comfy inner lining.
- Adjustable up to four sizes.
Cons:
- The bearings are of slightly less quality.
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Chicago Women’s Classic Roller Skates
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Ladies, the Chicago Women’s Classic Roller Skates are the perfect fitness skates for you. These classic rollerblades are the way to go if you want to look good and elegant while skating outdoors while getting in some exercise. There’s a lot to like about these blades, starting with the easy lacing system with speed hooks and eyelets that are adjustable for more support and a better fit. Moreover, the aluminum base plate comes with an adjustable chassis and truck, jump bar, and an adjustable toe-stop for precise turning and complete control. Plus, the 60 mm urethane wheels and 608 standard-sized bearings allow you to skate smoothly at a decent speed too. Best for recreational fitness skating, these classic roller skates are the perfect pair if this is your first time getting onto a rollerblade and will last you a long time too.
Pros:
- Adjustable hardware.
- Ideal for beginners.
- Durable build.
- Classic look.
Cons:
- The speed isn’t much.
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K2 Raider Pro Inline Skates
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One of the best-value good rollerblades for exercise is the K2 Raider Pro Inline Skates, which are ideal for children who’re starting experimenting with rollerblading. Featured in five adjustable sizes, the skates come with a push-button that allows customizing the fit for a smooth and stable skating experience. The 72mm wheels with a hardness of 80A are small enough to get you to good levels of speed, aided by the ABEC 3 bearings. Designed using a composite frame, the skates can absorb road vibrations well and are durable too. Additionally, the frame sits interlocked with the base, making sure that your children have complete control and perfect balance throughout the ride. Adding to the comfort and the stability is the skate cuff and the neoprene wrap liner. Finally, the 45-degree velcro power strap keeps the heel in place, with the standard lacing tying everything up nicely.
Pros:
- 45-degree Velcro power strap.
- Adjustable size.
- Stable skate cuff.
- The frame absorbs road vibrations.
Cons:
- Low speeds.
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K2 Kinetic 80 Inline Skates (CU)
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Yet another skate from K2 makes it to this list of best rollerblades for fitness – this time it’s the K2 Kinetic 80 Inline Skates. Designed particularly for women, these soft-framed rollerblades are very easy to control and maneuver. Equipped with 80A wheels with ABEC 5 bearings, these entry-level skates reduce vibrations due to bumpy roads and ensures long-lasting stability and comfort. Adding to the comfort is the K2 SoftBoots design, complete with an antimicrobial footbed for an odor-free experience. Besides shock absorption, the skates also feature a speed lacing system with a cuff strap, power strap, and arch tightening strap that ensure a tight and comfortable fit. Rounding up the features are the stability cuff, the 45-degree power Velcro strap, and the ratchet buckle.
Pros:
- Stability plus skate cuff.
- Shock absorption system.
- Speed lacing system.
- Soft boot design.
Cons:
- Some users said that it wasn’t very supportive.
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Roller Derby V-Tech 500 Button Adjustable Inline Skate
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The Roller Derby V-Tech 500 Button Adjustable Inline Skate is one of the good rollerblades for exercise. The skates are designed on a lightweight yet strong reinforced polymer frame that can be adjusted up to four sizes. What’s more, it can be done at the mere push of a button, which makes it perfect for growing feet as well. Equipped with a brake on the right blade, the rollerblades come with 76 mm urethane wheels socketed by Gold 7 chrome bearings that ensure smoothness, traction, and speed. Moreover, the triple cam-lever buckles ensure a secure and supportive fit, allowing you to slip them off and take them off easily. Plus, the soft boot provides additional balance and support to your feet, making you feel confident. If you’re advancing from the beginner to the intermediate level, then we can’t think of a better pair to accompany you on the journey.
Pros:
- Soft boot system.
- Durable polymer frame.
- Reinforced 76mm urethane wheels.
- Comfortable foam-padded lining.
- Adjustable fit with push-button.
Cons:
- Not very breathable.
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Women’s K2 VO2 90 Inline Skates (CU)
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The Women’s K2 VO2 90 Inline Skates are yet another of the best rollerblades for exercise. This model specifically designed for women is a great workout tool, especially for those who want to head outdoors on solo skating adventures. The skates boast a VO2.2 frame and a VO2 cuff that are the perfect blend of support, stability, and speed. Since they go fast and are good for longer distances, they are the best rollerblades for fitness. The well-built aluminum frame offers excellent energy transfer and helps you get the most out of the skate. Furthermore, the 83A 90 mm wheels with ILQ 9 Pro bearings help with speed, while the custom-fit foam liner lends comfort. The highlight is the iconic K2 soft boot design with a high cuff height that offers balance and stability and comfort for longer rides.
Pros:
- VO2 cuff with custom-fit foam.
- Vortech ventilation system.
- Speed lacing system.
Cons:
- The size isn’t adjustable.
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Rollerblade Women’s Zetrablade Inline Skates
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The Rollerblade Women’s Zetrablade Inline Skates are a good pair of rollerblades for exercise. These skates combine comfort, durability, and ease of use and are an excellent pair of skates for recreational skating. These skates are perfect for beginners for more reasons than one. Firstly, they have a low center of gravity which allows you to maintain your balance. Secondly, the durable frame stabilizes your ankles and feet and helps you stride ahead easily. The skates are extremely comfortable too, thanks to the thick and plush performance liner that ensures a comfy and snug fit. Since it offers a nice cushioning for your feet, you can easily cover longer distances too. Four wheels at the base of every blade ensure a smooth and maneuverable ride, allowing you to build your skating skills at the same time.
Pros:
- Controllable and stable.
- SG5 bearing for smoother rolls.
- Padded and plush liner.
- Triple-way closure.
Cons:
- No half sizes.
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K2 Skate F.I.T. 84 Pro Inline Skate
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Yet another of the best rollerblades for exercise and fitness is the K2 Skate F.I.T. 84 Pro Inline Skate. It’s not only good for beginners but also for those who want to move from the beginner to the intermediate level. The skates boast an aluminum frame that not only offers tons of support but is also lightweight. The 84 mm wheels, when paired with ABEC 5 bearings, allow you to have a bit of fun while stretching your muscles. The supportive high cuff helps you stabilize your movement, while the antimicrobial footbed or the soft boot provides support and comfort. Moreover, the K2 speed lacing system allows you to tighten the boot as per your preferences. The ventilation system of the boot offers a ton of breathability for longer periods. Wrapping up the features is the neon signs on the wheel, which make the shoes glow in the dark!
Pros:
- The neon wheel design makes the skates glow in the dark.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Very comfy and supportive.
- Ventilation and speed lacing system.
Cons:
- Size not adjustable.
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Rollerblade Zetrablade Men’s 80 Inline Skate (CU)
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Sitting atop the list of the best rollerblades for exercise is the Rollerblade Zetrablade Men’s 80 Inline Skate. Offering a combination of great comfort and support, the affordable pair of skates feature 82 A 80mm wheels paired with SG5 skate bearings. They not only assure smooth-rolling, but also excellent levels of speed, control, and precision. The entire boot sits on a long-lasting monocoque composite frame that keeps you as close to the ground as possible for a low center of gravity. This ensures greater control, maneuverability, and stability. Plus, the combination of the lace, strap and reliable buckle makes for an easy yet exceptional closure system. Rounding up the features of this fancy boot are the cushioned liner and the ankle and heel locking closure system.
Pros:
- SG% level bearings.
- Exceptional roll and grip.
- Great closure system.
- Comfy padding.
- Great ventilation.
Cons:
- None!
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