9 Best Inline Skates (Review) In 2022

- 1. Roller Derby AERIO Q-60 Women's Inline
- 2. Bladerunner by Rollerblade Advantage Pro XT
- 3. Rollerblade Zetrablade
- 4. LIKU Black Professional Inline Skates
- 5. 5th Element Stealth 84 Mens Performance Fitness Inline Skates
- 6. VNLA Carbon Speed Roller Blades
- 7. Rollerblade Twister Edge 110 3WD Fitness Inline Skate
- 8. Roller Derby Boy's Stinger 5.2 Adjustable Inline Skate
- 9. LIKU Black&Gold Performance 125 3WD Speed Inline Skates
Inline skates are a universally accessible type of skates. They have been around for decades and are worn by all kinds of skaters, both professional and amateur. Furthermore, there are various types of inline skates on the market, including quad skates and the very popular roller blades. However, inline skates are common for competitive skaters who seek to add a little bit more speed to their wheels. To achieve this, inline speed skates typically possess thinner, taller wheels, which enables them to maintain speed. Meanwhile, rollerblade wheels are wider, therefore, providing you with the much-needed protection. If you are looking to buy a new pair of skates, it is essential to know all the vital features. That said, if you are in the market for a pair of the best inline skates, the below list will help.
The Best Inline Skate
1. Roller Derby AERIO Q-60 Women’s Inline

Velcro straps and laces for a better fit
Ventilated boot for cooler feet
Wheels that travel smoothly over different surfaces
Lightweight frame that lasts
The Roller Derby AERIO Q-60 Women’s Inline is easily one of the best inline skates on the market. This is partly because of its excellent design and also because of its impeccable features that provide an experience that isn’t easily forgotten. These skates feature high-top boots that protect the feet, and its articulated shell offers great ankle support. Furthermore, the Q-60s also feature a memory foam padded liner, which provides incredible comfort and allows you to ride for a lot longer than usual.
Besides, the boot is well ventilated, meaning that you never have to worry about your feet getting cramped, sweaty, or uncomfortable. That’s not all the Q-60 has going for it as it also possesses a cam-lever buckle that is easy to operate as well as velcro straps and boot laces that ensure the skates fit perfectly and comfortably.
Now, let’s talk about the frame for a bit. These skates are equipped with some pretty impressive frames that protect the rider and give potential buyers confidence in their skates. Furthermore, these frames come sturdily built with aluminum for a secure and long-lasting use. Additionally, the frames are also lightweight making this a very stressless pair of skates to use.
Padded liner for greater comfort
Articulated shell for better ankle support
Chrome bearings for high speed
Uncomfortable for some users
They can be pretty loud
Sizing could be an issue for some users
2. Bladerunner by Rollerblade Advantage Pro XT

Reliable closure system
80mm wheels perfect for beginners
Generous padding for increased comfort
Stable support
A commonly asked question about inline skates is: ‘What are the best skates for a beginner?’ Well, if we were to answer that question, we would say the Bladerunner by Rollerblade Advantage Pro XT is certainly one of the best (if not the best) for new skaters. No doubt, for beginners, the most important thing is balance and these Bladerunners are excellent in that regard, as they come with a unique pair of boots that provide the requisite support to the rider – new or veteran.
Another critical aspect of learning to skate is time. To properly hone skating skills, a rider must spend time on their craft, and these skates make this incredibly easy due to the generous amount of padding that is placed in the boot. The padding ensures that the rider’s feet stay comfortable, thereby enabling them to spend more time practicing the art of skating.
In addition, these amazing skates also possess a reliable closure system that keeps the skater steady and comfortable. The skates sport a buckle, laces, and a strap, ensuring that skaters can fit into the skates properly and ride with confidence. Also, let’s not forget the excellent wheel and bearing system, which is perfect for beginners. Powered by 80mm wheels and ABEC 7 bearings, the Bladerunner is the ideal pair of skates for beginners.
Adjustable straps and laces
Ideal skates for beginners
Smooth wheels that work exceptionally well
Extremely slow
Some units possess wonky left skates
Doesn’t last too long
3. Rollerblade Zetrablade

Safe, secure, and convenient closure
80mm wheels paired with SG5 bearings
Excellent padding for supreme cushioning
Durable monocoque frames
Skating is a fun activity that more and more people should indulge in. It is, for this reason, that products like the Rollerblade Zetrablade are made as they make it easy for new skaters to learn the ropes. In turn, this helps them mature faster and help the skaters coming behind them. The Zetrablade is chock-full of features that make it appealing to newbies, and they will certainly make an excellent gift for a boyfriend, brother, or friend that is new to the world of skating.
The most endearing feature of these skates is the comfort it provides whilst on. Furthermore, the lining of the boot is padded and provides excellent cushioning when in use, so that you can ride in the skates all day without hassle. Additionally, the solid 80mm wheels that accompany these skates are perfect for beginners and move at a manageable pace. Paired with SG5 bearings, the Zetrablade wheels are ideal for improving skaters and riders who aren’t ready for dizzying speeds. No doubt, the foundation of these skates is incredible, and the supportive, low-balance shell that accompanies the shoes provide the rider with the right amount of support and stability. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best weightlifting shoes.
Excellent for novice skaters
High-top boot for extra support
Secure straps for better fit
Very slow due to the bearings
The wheels aren’t long-lasting
Some users have complained of misalignment
4. LIKU Black Professional Inline Skates

Buffering heel design to reduce road impact
Padded lining for impressive cushioning effect
Breathable skates for cooler feet
Durable shell for extra stability
The LIKU Black Professional Inline Skates Unisex is an excellent pair of skates that every skating enthusiast should consider purchasing. The OU wheels these skates come outfitted with are durable and great on most terrains. Besides, they are also paired with excellent bearings, which help to maintain the perfect speed. Meanwhile, the high-top boots fitted on the skates are also quite exceptional in their quality. The shell is a low-balance one that provides amazing support so that you can remain stable even when going at high speeds.
That’s not all, the LIKU skates feature padded lining that comfortably houses your feet, and grants comfort that very few skates can boast of. The linings are also completely removable, which makes the process of washing and maintenance a very easy and convenient one. What’s more, the reliable closure system is yet another attractive feature of these skates, and the addition of buckles and laces ensure that this is a pair of skates that will fit most people. Uniquely, these LIKU skates possess an excellent buffering heel design that reduces the impact of the road on your heel.
Powerful PU wheels
Durable frames that are made to last
EVA elastic cotton lining for greater comfort
Could be a little tight around the ankles
Durability of the frames have been called into question
Could feel wobbly sometimes
5. 5th Element Stealth 84 Mens Performance Fitness Inline Skates

ABEC 7 bearing rating for greater speeds
Durable wheels for different terrains
Sturdy shell that provides exceptional support
Aluminum chassis
Anyone will tell you that the hallmarks of a great pair of skates are speed, comfort, and performance, and the 5th Element Stealth 84 Men’s Performance Fitness Inline Skates has all three. The boot is quite secure and durable, which means that your feet are protected with ease. Additionally, the outer shell is soft enough to make you feel very comfortable and capable of skating for a long time. Also, on the inside, the impressive lining adds to the feeling of comfort and safety that you get when pulling on these skates.
Speaking of pulling on the skates, these amazing skates possess an excellent closure system that grants the needed stability and flexibility. What’s more, you are presented with a combination of buckles, straps, and laces to ensure that the boots fit securely. No doubt, these skates are a great fit for both learners and professionals, and the metal frames bear witness to this. Not only are the metal frames durable and long-lasting, the wheels and bearing combination make every ride feel like an adventure. Furthermore, the bearing has an ABEC 7 rating enabling it to deliver decent speed while skating. Our selection of the best skate shoes offers more great shoe products so check it out.
Excellent closure system
Easy fit thanks to buckles, straps, and laces
Comfortable lining
Low ventilation leads to sweaty feet
Brittle nuts and bolts that could easily fall off
Lack of ventilation means they could get smelly
6. VNLA Carbon Speed Roller Blades

Robust carbon fiberglass shell for stability
Soft, padded interior that provides comfort
ABEC 9 bearings to handle high speeds
Low-cut boots for excellent stability and speed
The VNLA Carbon Speed Roller Blades are not for the faint of heart. These excellent skates provide unreal speeds to skaters who know what they are doing. The low-cut boots are made from carbon fiberglass, meaning that they are quite sturdy and can also take a good beating. Not only that, but these are also skates that are made to handle even the most adverse weather conditions while still providing you with excellent service in the long run. What’s more, the four powerful wheels are built for high speeds and have been sturdily built to handle the harshest terrains and surfaces. And despite all these good features, the VNLA skates endear themselves even further with their versatility, which enables the skates to be useful for both indoor and outdoor staking.
Still, on the lower half of the skates, the ABEC 9 bearing imbues the skates with the ability to handle high speeds with ease, without causing anxiety for the rider. With all the features geared towards speed, it is easy to assume that these skates will be uncomfortable; however, this is not the case. The interior is surprisingly soft and snug, thereby adding another layer of quality and durability to this already incredible product. Finally, the VNLA skates sport colorful designs and shells that are ideal for showing off and grabbing attention wherever they appear. Check out our buying guide for best roller shoes for kids 2020s’ market has to offer.
Flashy design that looks attractive
Rebound wheels that work with most surfaces
Great for indoor and outdoor skating
Warranty does not exist
Felt uncomfortable for some
Brittle closure
7. Rollerblade Twister Edge 110 3WD Fitness Inline Skate

Deep ankle seats for support
Heel lock provides stability for you
Anti-torsion box for maximum energy transfer
Durable molded shell
There are roller blades, and then there’s the Rollerblade Twister Edge 110 3WD Unisex Adult Fitness Inline Skate, which is just an amazing product and merit in the Rollerblade lineup. Equipped with only three wheels, the Twister Edge delivers speed and pace as very few skates can. What’s more, the wheels are made with urethane, and they are excellent on various surfaces, while at the same time reducing vibration and impact. In addition, the bearings also handle high speeds admirably, and it is clear for all to see that these are skates for serious rollers.
Moving a little upward, the shell of this fantastic pair of skates is both solid and convenient whilst the molded shell design provides quality so that the skates can also be used in a number of situations, both for competitions and casual use. It doesn’t end there as the skates also have a convenient inner section, which is padded to ensure that the rider never feels uncomfortable while using the boots. Also, the skates possess deep ankle seats that provide support and heel lock for unparalleled stability. Add to the fact that the anti-torsion box located at the sole of the skates provides maximum energy transfer, then you can see why this is such a coveted pair of skates for users everywhere.
Padded interior for extra comfort
Buckles and laces for the perfect fit
High-performance wheels
The heel support is subpar
A little too pricey for some
They weren’t very comfortable for some
8. Roller Derby Boy’s Stinger 5.2 Adjustable Inline Skate

Polymer frame that’s lightweight and durable
Non-marking brake on the right skate
Comfortable inner that provides excellent cushion
Reliable closure system
Another product from Roller Derby has already been examined once on this list, and it with the same enthusiasm and confidence that we take a look at the Roller Derby Boy’s Stinger 5.2 Adjustable Inline Skate. Like its sister product, this pair of skates are contained in high top boots that make them excellent for skaters who are just starting out. Besides, they also feature a well-padded inner that is super comfortable and can be worn for long periods. Not only that, but the liner is also removable, which simplifies the process of cleaning and also helps to avoid the case of a smelly liner.
On top of that, the cam buckle system which these skates are equipped with is amazing and grants the perfect ankle security. Polymer frames further help to keep the high-performance urethane wheels in place while the silver 5 speed rated carbon bearings allow you to skate faster. And for the sake of security, the brake found on the right skate can be switched to the left when needed. Even better is the fact that the brake is also a non-marking one, making it even more comfortable to use.
Brake can be switched between skates at will
Ideal for both beginners and veterans
Removable liner that simplifies maintenance
The quick strap isn’t very impressive
The laces don’t do much for you
The skates don’t stay fastened when in use
9. LIKU Black&Gold Performance 125 3WD Speed Inline Skates

Powerful 125mm wheels for maximum speed
Incredible ABEC bearings
Buckle and laces closure system
Comfortable EVA elastic cotton liner
The LIKU Black&Gold Performance 125 3WD Speed Inline Skates look regal with their excellent design and innovative colors. Impressively, it also performs really well, proving that the design isn’t all it has going for it. Furthermore, the huge 125mm wheels make this an ideal skate for racing or going at high speeds. For such robust wheels, they need to be paired with similarly robust bearings, and that is precisely what these skates possess. The incredible ABEC bearing ensures that there is much less vibration for you when in motion and provides a smoother ride.
Furthermore, the closure system is also remarkable with two adjustable buckles and laces, allowing you to enjoy a much more convenient fit. Aside from that, the inner liner is blessed with premium EVA elastic cotton that cushions the wearer’s feet. And to accommodate different types of feet, the liner possesses a stretch band that enables the skates to fit perfectly. Also, the skates are breathable, making sure that the skater’s feet always remain cool.
Aesthetically pleasing design
Robust shell that provides stability
Breathable skates that are long-lasting and comfortable
Wasn’t comfortable for some
Doesn’t possess brakes
Aren’t great for advanced skaters
Inline Skate Buying Guide And FAQ
Features To Look For In Inline Skates
Closure system - The closure system for inline skates is essential as they affect the performance and support that the rider is afforded. Most inline skates possess buckles, straps, and laces, and it's a combination of this that makes for a competent closure system. Not all skates have all three components, but most products will have at least two of them to ensure that the skaters stay secure. Beginners, in particular, are the ones who benefit from proper closure systems as they are then able to learn with ease and without worrying about falling over. Broken straps or laces can hamper the skating experience, and it is advised that a potential buyer should look out for the closure system before picking a pair of skates.
Comfort - Professional skaters who compete in tournaments and races tend to stand for long periods and spend a lot of time in their skates; therefore, the skates must be comfortable for the wearer. The comfort of the wearer usually determines how long one can stay in skates. For instance, a learner will find themselves at a disadvantage with uncomfortable skates as they will be unable to wear them for a long time which, in turn, will also mean less time to practice skating. Meanwhile, for professionals, uncomfortable skates could be the difference between a win and a defeat in a tournament. The padding system is the best indicator of comfort levels, which is why EVA elastic cotton padding is the most recommended for skates. So, potential buyers will do well to ensure that the liners within the skates are comfortable enough for them to wear.
Material - This is an important factor to consider when purchasing any product as the materials used to construct a pair of skates is possibly the most significant indicator as to whether they are worth buying. Skates made with high-quality material tend to be more expensive; however, they are also the products that last longer, even with regular use. Buyers of skates made with cheap or inferior materials will have complaints as those skates can hold up well against bad terrain, terrible weather conditions, and regular wear and tear. With that in mind, potential buyers will do well to do a little research before going into the market to buy skates.
Size - When dealing with footwear, sizing is always a huge issue. This can happen for a number of reasons. One of such reasons is buyers’ ignorance, which is why a buyer would go into the market to purchase a pair of skates without initially verifying their shoe/leg size. We all know the pitfalls of wearing footwear that is smaller or larger. Skating is a lot less comfortable when the skates aren’t the right fit, and skaters in this situation are a lot more prone to accidents or blisters. Another problem with sizing could be the country of purchase, or in some cases, the manufacturers themselves. Whatever the case is, it is always a good idea to check out the size of the shoes and compare that to the shoe/feet size of the consumer.
Support - The support that a pair of inline skates provide is pivotal for the rider when skating, and this is evidenced further when comparing experience levels. Beginners are encouraged to get skates with high-top boots, as these are more likely to contain the necessary support. The amount of support received also plays into the stability of the skates. Therefore, skates with poor support are also likely to unbalance the skater using them. Furthermore, this is the reason that novice skaters are advised to stay away from inline speed skaters as those are usually housed in low-cut boots, which emphasize speed over support and can be a hassle to handle for beginners. With that in mind, it is advisable to seek out skates with great support, especially if you are a beginner.
Weight - Getting a pair of skates takes a lot of work and research, as there are so many components that can make the riding experience less than ideal. The weight of the skates is one of such components to look out for. As with all things, the heavier they are, the more difficult they are to deal with. This is the same with skates, and heavy skates lead to more fatigue in the rider and can cause them to tire out quickly. A lot of the skates that were examined are lightweight, and this lends itself well to long hours of skating.
Washable Liner - Some skates have comfortable liners that can’t be taken out of the boot, while this isn’t in itself a problem, it could very easily become one. This is because due to the long hours spent in skates, a user’s feet can start to sweat, and the build-up of moisture can cause the liner to stink. This is why it is a good idea to purchase skates that have removable liners. With removable liners, it is a lot easier to wash and maintain the skates and, therefore, avoid a case of a smelly liner. Breathable skates can help to reduce cases of stinky liners, but it is not enough, and it is always better to get skates with removable liners.
Wheel Amount - Inline skates usually possess between three and five wheels. The number of wheels can sometimes have a bearing on the speed of the skates, and it would be remiss for a buyer not to consider the number of wheels before purchase. Skates with fewer wheels are often larger; meanwhile, inline speed skates tend to have about four or five wheels, and they help skaters accelerate and maintain speed.
Wheel Size - The wheel size of skates is intrinsically linked with the speed of the skates. For a potential buyer, wheel size is dependent on the style of skating they will seek to partake in. For instance, speed inline skaters tend to use wheel sizes between 72-80mm as these wheels also tend to be thinner, which allows the skaters to maintain their speed even when cornering. Beginners, on the other hand, are advised to use bigger wheels as while they are typically slower, they also make it easier to maintain balance and are less dangerous. Therefore, potential buyers should note what level they are in skating before deciding on the wheel size for their skates.
Inline Skate FAQ
Q: Does roller skating build muscle?
A: Skating is an excellent form of exercise! This is because it has been shown to exercise all the body’s muscles. This is especially true of the heart, which increases its beats per minute to about 140. Furthermore, the increased heart rate enables the heart’s muscles to build up. Not only does skating help to build muscle, but it also reduces body fat and increases arm and leg strength.
Q: How do you break in new roller skate wheels?
A: The truth is that skates need some breaking in before they become comfortable. So, it is unsurprising that new skaters complain of discomfort and pain when they first wear their skates. Breaking in the skate wheel isn’t difficult but requires that you wear them as often as possible. The more a rider uses their new skates, the more comfortable it becomes. Not only that, but a user can also mold the skates to their feet by tying the laces right.
Q: Is rollerblading faster than running?
A: The simple answer is yes. Over a small distance (100m), a sprinter would probably leave a rollerblader in their wake. However, anything more than that, and the odds favor the rollerblader. As for the benefits, running and rollerblading share similar advantages, and the number of calories burned while running is similar to those burned while using rollerblades. Rollerblading also has an advantage when it comes to building muscle as the side-to-side movement required for rollerblading builds more muscle than running.
Q: Are inline skates harder than quads?
A: Typically, beginners find it easier to learn on inline skates than on quads. However, whether inline skates are easier to operate than quads is challenging to ascertain. This is because while inline skates are more popular than quads, the braking system of quads is different from inline skates and is easier to master for beginners. Quads feature a toe stop while inline skates have a heel stop, and because of the motions involved, beginners find it easier to use the toe stops.
Q: Is rollerblading bad for knees?
A: No. Rollerblading is actually used to strengthen the knees and could be used as a form of physical therapy for those who are trying to strengthen their lower body. With that said, the knees are also susceptible to injuries that can be brought about by skating. But those injuries are mostly associated with people who perform stunts while skating. For those who ride for fun or recreation, the knees are usually safe from harm.