Roller Skates vs Roller Blades | Which Is the Best Value for Money?

Do you enjoy skating but aren’t sure whether to buy skates or blades? And, would you like to know the significant discrepancies between Roller Skates vs Roller Blades? 

It’s the question you secretly dread. 

But

Don’t worry; we’re here to answer all your queries. 

Also, many people thought that the only difference between roller skates and rollerblades is the arrangement of the wheel.

Nope! They all are wrong. 

There are a lot more differences. So, if you want to know all the differences between roller quads and inline skates, then keep on reading. And we illustrated them in detail. 

What’s a Roller Skate?

Roller skates are like a truck or car; a boot is mounted on the skateboard and supported by four wheels. In the past, most people have used quad roller skates when skateboarding at a roller rink as a kid. 

Roller Skates vs Roller Blades are two different things. The wheels on rollerblades are aligned in one line, while the wheels on standard roller skates are not. Likewise, they have two horizontal trucks instead of one vertical frame. The first is on the heel end, the second is on the toe end, and each side of the truck has two wheels.

Also, roller skate wheels are smaller than those on a roller Blade; they are much broader and flatter. Generally, they have a toe brake, which can be removed when necessary.

Best Thing About Roller Skates

Here are some best points that we love about the Roller Skates:

Easily Maneuvered

If you want easy maneuverability for dancing and dancing competitions, then Roller Skate is the best choice. Moreover, these are equipped with adjustable trucks, which allow effortless movement, and you’ve more control over speed while turning and stopping. 

Stability 

The quad skates are equipped with broad wheels, which offer more roll resistance. Further, they provide excellent stability and balance, and the top and the front brake allow a more stable stop.

Ease of Slowing and Stoping

Roller skates feature a toe stop drag that makes stopping easier. To slow down to a stop, you have to balance more weight on one leg.

Supports Sharp Turns 

When you slow down a little before making a sharp turn, you can make sharp turns at high speed.

What’s a Roller Blade?

Rollerblade is also a type of roller skate, and another name for rollerblade is inline skate. It’s a type of skate in which the boot is connected with wheels and provides many ankle support. 

But its arrangement of wheels is not the same as that of roller skate wheels when we put Roller Skates vs Roller Blades side by side. Furthermore, wheels are arranged in straight lines attached to a frame made of metal or plastic. 

They have 2-5 wheels on every blade, but typically, four wheels are attached with a brake. Besides, if the roller blade has three wheels, it is called a tri skate.

Best Things About Roller Blades

Here are some amazing points that we love about the Rollerblades:

High speed

If you’re a professional in skating, then the rollerblade is what you love because of its high speed. However, if you’re a beginner, then it’s hard to learn roller skating with rollerblades. Before reaching high speed, you’ve to learn the techniques of stability and balance. 

Great for Lateral Leg Movements

You can use rollerblades for cardio workouts, and it is a good option for lateral leg movements. Also, blades, legs, glutes, and hamstrings can be toned. It is best to do the alternative of sprinting with light skating for forty seconds, and you can shorten the time if necessary.

Easy on Uneven Surfaces

When we compared Roller Skates vs Roller Blades then, we found that all roller skates did not run smoothly on rough surfaces while rollerblades run smoothly even on rough surfaces. In addition, rough surfaces include pavements, sidewalks, concrete, and others. 

What is the Difference Between Roller Skates and Roller Blades?

Roller Skates vs Roller Blades both differ in quite a few ways, and it would be impossible to describe all of them in a single part paragraph. I will talk about each one separately. So, let’s dig into it.

Wheel Attachment, Arrangement, and Number

The most important or main difference between Roller Skates vs Roller Blades is the arrangement of the wheel. The wheels on the inline skate are arranged in a straight line; however, on the quad skate (Roller Skate), the wheels are arranged in a rectangular manner. Moreover, the roller skates feature four wheels, while roller blades have 4-10 wheels depending upon the size of the skate. 

Now, talk about how wheels are attached to the boot. In the case of rollerskates, the wheel is attached by a skateboard-like truck that supports the wheel. In contrast, roller blade wheels are attached through a plastic or metal frame. 

Flexibility and Type of Boot

Another different aspect of the roller skate and the rollerblade is the flexibility of the skate.  Rollerblades are more flexible than the Roller skates. Compared to Roller Skates, rollerblades are super supportive and have a rigid structure because you need more support when rolling on uneven surfaces.  Also, provide more support and control while jumping over obstacles on the sidewalk.

Too, the type of boot is also different in Roller Skates vs Roller Blades. Besides, the boots of these rollerskates resemble regular shoes. Although this boot provides enough ankle support, it’s also flexible, which can improve athletic performance significantly. 

The quad skate. But, The fact that rollerblades are inflexible doesn’t mean they aren’t comfortable.

Which Skate is Faster – Roller Skates vs Roller Blades

If you’re looking for a faster skate, you have to choose an inline skate (Roller Blade) because they have large wheels and move faster than a roller skate.  

Furthermore, for people who want to burn body fat by skating for long distances, inline skates are also preferable over quad skates.

Compared to the speed of Roller Skates vs Roller Blades, inline skates are faster, but it doesn’t mean quad skates are not faster. Due to their smaller wheels, quads are more sluggish than inline.  Moreover, the quads wheel has a 68mm-110mm height and diameter is 58mm-65mm. 

Roller Skates vs Roller Blades – Which is Cheaper

We’re sorry to dishearten you if you were hoping there was a price difference between RollerBlades and Roller Skates.

Both the skates are available in the same price range, but the kid’s skates are cheaper. However, if the skate is made of high-quality material, the price is also high.  So, it depends on you on which you want to invest. 

The right skates do not have to be expensive, you can get the cheapest skates, but they don’t last as long as the expensive ones. However, the cheapest skates last a long up to a year, and we thought this was enough. 

Which is Easier between Roller Skates vs Roller Blades?

We mentioned above that skating is easy to learn with roller skates, but roller blades are difficult to handle. If you’re an expert in ice skating, then rollerblading is easier for you but the primary key to skating is balancing. 

Moreover, quads are easy to balance because they have two rotations in the front and two wheels in the back. Plus, the quad skates are flexible and lighter than the rollerblades. However, both skates need the same level of dedication while learning and are easy to learn. You can even learn to skate backward on either skate type in about 3 to 4 hours if you’re adamant enough.

If the skate has a higher boot, it provides better ankle support than the standard ones. Likewise, the axles might assist with balance but can’t aid with movement. With a roller skate, you would still stand on wheels, and a roller skate can roll away from you with hardly any movement.

Beginners may find it more challenging to balance on rollerblades; however, it is possible. Also, you should choose a short and wide wheel if your goal is to learn rollerblading to have a larger surface area without being raised too high above the ground.

Is it Possible to Lose Weight by Skating?

One of the most common questions that we hear is whether skating can make you lose weight in addition to helping you to work out. It’s a valid question because, in this era, folks are conscious about their weight. 

But in terms of weight loss, which is better? Well, according to us, both are similar. But, when we compare Roller Skates deeply vs. Roller Blades, rollerblades are better for workouts. Moreover, exercise is essential for your physical and mental health. While keeping fit and having fun, skating is a great way to burn calories.

Recreational rollerbladers will skate more for fitness because it’s relatively easy to maintain. However, roller skating will burn a few calories, but it won’t offer the same level of speed as rollerblading.

Roller skates can be used to accomplish this, but it takes a lot of training before you can do this. In contrast, rollerblades will allow you to move within h activities, burn calories, get your heart rate up, and are easier on the body than other aerobic exercises.

Best Roller Skates – Our Picks

Chicago Skates Bullet Men’s Speed Roller Skate

Before we proceed toward the characteristics of Chicago Skates, let’s have a look at the main parameters of this roller skate:

Main Specifications

• Wheel material – Polyurethane
• Type of the Wheel – Speed Wheel
• Size of the skate – 8
• Variant – Black
• Type of the closure – Lace-Up
• Size of the wheel – 62 Millimeters
• Weight of the skate – 80.8 Ounces
• Truck type – Double Action Adjustable Truck
• Bearing type – ABEC 1 Rated Speed Bearings

Stability and Control

Chicago offers more control over speed, so you can quickly turn and stop. This features a 62mm wide urethane wheel with ABEC 1 rated speed bearing and has premium fixed axles that provide stability and control. 

In addition, with its controlled low-cut boot and high-quality laces, the Chicago Bullet Speed Skate provides maximum safety and comfort for your feet.

Material and Durability

This iconic bullet skate is specially designed for racing. Additionally, the skate is made from highly durable material, and the closure system is lace-up. So, you can adequately adjust the skate while skating. 

Style of Skate

The scooter has adjustable polycarbonate trucks, high rebound speed urethane wheels, ABEC 1 precision speed bearings, a padded collar, and an attached heel pull loop. Moreover, this is a popular choice for indoor or outdoor use.

CHICAGO Skates Men’s Classic Roller Skates 

Main Specifications

• Name of the model – Classic roller skate
• Material of the wheel – Polyurethane
• Type of the wheel – Rollerblade
• Size of the wheel – 60 mm
• Material of skate – Leather
• Closure type of skate – Lace-up
• Variant available – Black Rink Quad Skates
• Available sizes – 1-13
• Weight of the product – 6.9 Pounds
• Pattern – Solid
• Adjustable truck – Yes

Let’s dig into detailed characteristics of Chicago Classic skate:

Best for Large Men’s Sizing

Most skates don’t come in the larger size, typically available in 1 to 11 sizes, and it stuck if someone has enormous feet. But, when we talk about the Chicago classic skate, it is available in various sizes and goes up to size 13. And, we prefer this skate for prominent men’s sizing at an affordable price.

Budget-Friendly 

This is one of the best roller skates on Amazon at a low price with all the features that someone needs or wants in their rollerskate. Chicago Classic Skate is a budget-friendly pick and provides the same comfort level as all Chicago skates. 

Style and Adjustment of Wheel

This skate wheel is made from urethane material which holds up well during skating and provides you more control over the speed. Also, it features a semi-precision bearing which makes your ride fast and smooth. The wheel is placed parallelly with an aluminum base plate that allows you quickly to turn and quickly Rink Skating

Skates from Chicago have been a popular all-around and social choice for decades. The skate is strategically designed for gliding. The particular wheels have been designed to turn and glide well on slippery rink floors, making them ideal for maneuvering.

Moxi Skates – Lolly – Fashionable Women’s Quad Roller Skate

Main Specifications

• Material of the skate – Suede Leather, Alloy steel, Nylon
• Type of boot – Classic high top
• Type of closure – Lace-Up
• Available sizes – 4-10
• Available variants – Green Apple, Lilac, Floss (Teal), Taffy (Purple), Poppy Red, Clementine, Pineapple, Classic Black
• Type of plate – PowerDyne Thrust Nylon
• Style of skating – Outdoor, Dance, Session
• The type of wheel  – 65mm x 35mm, 78A
• Bearing type – ABEC-5
• Toe Stop Type – Adjustable Black

Stylish and Fashionable Design

Traditional high-top skates for ladies are equipped with ABEC-5 steel ball bearings for minimal friction. Also, featuring Moxi Classic 65mm x 35mm outdoor wheels, these outdoor quad skates provide a smooth and comfortable ride.

Comfortable and Easily Fit

This pair of roller skates comes with an easy lace system that makes adjusting the skates a breeze. Additionally, a high-quality padded tongue makes it easy to slip on your skates, and it also ensures that the right size is selected before purchase.

Durability 

Soft suede leather is used in these roller skates, which can be broken in easily with minimal discomfort. These skates are equipped with a high-impact nylon PowerDyne Thrust plate, which is paired with solid metal trucks for optimal support.

Best Roller Blades – Famous Picks

2 PM SPORTS Cytia Pink Girls Adjustable Illuminating Inline Skates

Main Specifications

• Type of the wheel – Inline Skate Wheel 
• Material of the wheel – Polyurethane
• Frame – Aluminum Alloy
• Closure type – Buckle, 45° Strap, Laces
• Bearing – ABEC-7 bearings
• Variants – Cyan and Yellow, Violet and Magenta, Yellow and Green
• Lightning system – Yes
• Battery need  – No
• Size – Medium – Big Kids (13C-3Y US), Small – Little Kids (10C-13C US), Large – Youth (3Y-6Y US)
• Variants – Purple and Pink
• Material of skate – Rubber
• Pattern available – Print

Premium Performance

With ABEC-7 bearings, 82A polyurethane wheels, TRP Stopper,  and an aluminum frame, this roller skate delivers a smooth, quiet ride. Additionally,  three layers of ankle protection, including laces, 45° straps, and a high-strength buckle, ensure a safe and secure fit.

Ideal for a Birthday Present

The 2 PM sports skates are great birthday gifts because everyone loves them. Skates are loved by kids of all ages and are fun for adults. So, they want to leave their video games and cell phones at home, go outside and enjoy skating with these inline skates. 

Adjustable and Affluent

This is available in four sizes, and shoes will be exactly fit as the feet grow. Additionally, you feel more comfortable than ever before with these skates. As they make their way toward becoming experts, they will be able to improve their skating skills with these comfortable pairs of skates. It is made of soft material so that your children’s feet will be comfortable, and the buckle, strap, and laces ensure that their ankles will be supported while skating.

PAPAISON Adjustable Inline Skates

Main Specifications

• Wheel material – Polyurethane 
• Size of the wheel – 76 Microns
• Lighten up wheel
• Rubber single brake on the right foot
• Material of the skate – Aluminum
• Colors available -White, Red, Purple
• Size available – Small, Medium, Large, X-Large
• Buckle, 45° strap, laces closure system

Durable and Smooth

The inline skate’s frame is made of reinforced aluminum alloy, and the wheels are 82A polyurethane for wear resistance and smoothness. ABEC-7 high-speed mute bearings are made of premium carbon steel. And experience smooth, quiet, and confident riding with these skates. 

Stability and Control

This inline skate has an integrated thickened shell and thickened frame that features a lower center of gravity, as well as triple protection that gives skaters more control and stability. Also, these roller skates are equipped with lateral support, which enhances ankle support and energy transfer to let you learn or improve existing skating skills more quickly.

Rollerblade Zetrablade Men’s Adult Fitness Inline Skate

Main Specifications

• Material of wheel – Polyurethane
• 80mm/82A Wheels
• SG5 bearings
• Buckle closure system
• MONOCOQUE Frame
• Weight of the skate – 5.8 pounds
• Black/Silver Variants are available
• Sizes available – 6-13

Product Description

In the last one, we have Zetrablade Men’s Inline Skate, and let’s have a look at the characteristics of this rollerblade.

Design of Skate

It has a secure closure system that includes laces, a power strap, and a buckle similar to those found on most rollerblades. Moreover, these inline skates come with nylon frames and 80mm diameter wheels, perfect for beginners.

Breathable Upper

These Rollerblade Zetrablade Skates for Men have a ventilated upper that keeps your feet cool and dry throughout your skating adventures.

Bearing

These Inline Skates are also equipped with high-quality SG5 bearings. Therefore, they’re resistant to corrosion, cost-effective, and long-lasting. Additionally, the smooth ride and minimal speed reduce the risk of accidents.

Wrap Up – Roller Skates vs Roller Blades

Lastly, the main difference between Roller Skate vs. Roller Blades is the arrangement of the wheel. In Roller Skates, wheels are arranged side-by-side like two wheels fit in the front and 2 in the back. In contrast, Rollerblades have 4-7 wheels arranged in an inline which is why it’s called inline skates. Roller skates are easy to handle compared to rollerblades, but both need the training to master the skating.  Also, some Roller Skates vs Roller Blades are mentioned above with the characteristics.

So spare some time from your busy routine and read this article.

Frequently Asked Questions

 Here are some queries about the most people search on google:

Which is more complex, roller skates or roller blades?

Often, people ask whether rollerblading or skating is easier. The truth is that although many people seem to think quad roller skates are more straightforward to learn than inline skates (or roller blades as they are commonly known), inline skates tend to be very user-friendly for both children and adults.

Do roller blades or skates work better outside?

The inline wheel setup and minimal friction with the ground make inline skates generally faster outdoor than quad skates. However, if you want to roll for long distances or want to roll fastly on uneven surfaces, then we prefer Inline skates.

Which skates are better for beginners?

The mentioned above Roller Skates vs Roller Blades both skates are beginner-friendly and now let’s have a look at them :

• Rollerblade Zterablade Men’s Fitness Inline Skates
• Chicago Skate Men’s Classic Roller Skates
• Chicago Skate Bullet Men’s Speed Roller Skates
• PAPAISON Adjustable Inline Skate