Rollerblading Is Back—and These Are the Skates Pros Would Actually Buy

ProsAluminum frame for durability and maneuverabilityIdeal for workouts Good for beginners and experienced skatersConsRun on the smaller side, so size upAfter testing and looking at dozens of inline skates, we found that Rollerblade’s Macro 80 Inline Skates deserved the top spot. We love their incredibly comfortable padding, smooth wheels, and supportive cuffs that make them ideal for all levels of skaters.The skates are also made with an aluminum frame, making them incredibly sturdy. In fact, these rollerblades are a regular recommendation from Jaspers, a skater for over 37 years.Their 80mm wheels and SG5 bearings (bearings are the part of the wheel that allows them to roll) err on the pro side without being overly tech-y or speed demon-y, making them ideal for workouts and easy striding.Jaspers calls the option a solid choice for both beginners and experienced skaters alike. “I like the Rollerblade Macroblade 80 because it has a comfortable, breathable boot that flexes with you as you skate,” she says, adding that the inline skates add support where you really need it—in the ankle area.Plus, the skate’s aluminum frame is tough and sturdy, with a secure buckle and strap closure system that'll keep you strapped in no matter what you're rolling on.Read more: How To Rollerblade For BeginnersFrame MaterialAluminiumWheel Size and Type80 mm/82ANumber of Wheels4Weight‎6.3 lbsProsGreat at balancing control and speedDesigned with larger wheels for stabilityShock absorbing featuresConsNot the best for wider feetThese blades from K2 boast slightly larger wheels than other rollerblades on this list, making it easier to navigate bumpy streets, and a more aggressive cuff (and buckle system) to keep you feeling stable through turns. Their sleek look fits right in with the city vibe.While a traditional lacing system may mean you spend a little more time putting them on, the laces also allow you to get a more customized, supportive fit. Their frames are designed with a shock absorption feature, which essentially minimizes vibration to keep you balanced as you skate.During spins, the wheels are designed to guide you as opposed to giving you the full control wheels on professional-grade skates typically do. That makes these a great option for beginners.Frame Material‎PlasticWheel Size and Type80mm/80ANumber of Wheels4Weight2.5 lbsAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsLow profile gives you more controlCushy in the tongue and ankle Breathability features If extra stability is what you're looking for when you skate, the Macroblade 90 fits the bill. They're made with a higher cuff, which helps balance and hold the foot in place whether you're tackling smooth streets or rough terrain.To add even more stability, the skates are designed with a low profile that keeps you closer to the ground, essentially enhancing your speed while giving you more control over where you're going.In addition to security, the shoes are also next-level comfy. They're wrapped in mesh that add breathability to the skate and made with padding in the tongue and ankle areas so that you can wear these for extended periods of time without experiencing fatigue or discomfort.Frame MaterialAluminumWheel Size and Type90mm/84ANumber of Wheels4Weight‎7.2 lbsProsComfortable bootCuff buckle closure for more stabilityGood choice for beginner and intermediate skatersConsNot the best option for those looking for speedThose that like to spend hours and hours on skates will find the Zetrablade Inline Skates to be the most comfortable ones on this list. We deem them so because of their cushioned liner, which gives the shoe a slipper-like feel and sock-like fit, and their low profile which will give you more stability and control as you skate. Being closer to the ground automatically improves your balance.The SG5 bearings on this skate make them particularly great for beginners and intermediate skaters, since they let you achieve just enough speed and glide to help you reach your next level of skating skill without requiring too much technique to hit the brakes or find your balance again. Frame MaterialPlasticWheel Size and Type80mm/hardness not listedNumber of Wheels4Weight6.7 lbsAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsAvailable in bright, fun colorsToe stop can make slowing down and stopping easierAmple ankle supportThis is the pair of roller blades I swear by. Made by popular ice skate brand Jackson Ultima, these skates are designed with boots that are nearly identical to figure skates, except they come in fun colors (ice skates for high-level figure skaters are notoriously only made in black and white).The build of these skates is different from traditional roller blades because rather than having a plastic brake behind the back wheel, the pair has a rubber toe stop at the front of the skates to mimic the toe pick of figure skate blades.This makes it easier for figure skaters to practice spins and other moves off-ice. These skates are a unique mixture of roller blades and roller skates that are most recommended for skaters familiar with ice skating in figure skates.Frame MaterialSteelWheel Size and Type72 mm/87ANumber of Wheels3Weight6 lbsProsAffordableLightweight and easy to maneuver Good for recreational skatersConsIts frame is made from plasticFor those with growing feet, like adolescents, or those with conditions that may make their feet swell, we recommend Roller Derby's V-Tech 500 inline skates. Not only are they a budget-friendly option, but the skates can also adjust between sizes—specifically women's sizes six to nine—using a triple buckle closure.While these skates are a lot more affordable than others on this list, their frames are made from plastic, which doesn't make them a great option for professional skaters since they're more prone to damage than skates built with aluminum.Still, they make a great option for those skating recreationally, as these skates are more equipped to handle light use—not the speed and tricks professional skaters are usually after. Frame MaterialPlasticWheel Size and Type76mm/hardness not listedNumber of Wheels4Weight7.5 lbsAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsSecure, shock-absorbing designDesigned with ventilation holes for breathabilityGood for beginner skatersConsMay not be able to handle professional skating The Liku Inline Skates are perfect for those who want to get into or already participate in recreational skating, as they're made with just enough features to keep you supported while you ride. The skates are made with a lace and buckle system that can easily be tightened or loosened to achieve a customized fit.We also like that the skates' soles are designed for shock absorption to help keep your feet balanced as you hit any unexpected bumps. Plus, the skates’ shells are made with ventilation holes for added breathability. These unisex rollerblades are ideal for couples or families who want to share a pair if they’re lucky enough to share the same size.Frame MaterialAluminum, ethylene vinyl acetateWheel Size and Type80 mm/90ANumber of Wheels4Weight6.3 lbsProsAdjustable for a growing footNo too stiff, doesn't require much breaking inGreat support for brand new skatersConsNot many color optionsThis is the pair of skates that I have my 8-year-old niece skating in, and if you’re shopping for a first pair of roller blades, these adjustable K2 Marlee skates are a pick that will grow right alongside your child. With a simple push-button system that expands across multiple sizes, they’re built to last more than just one season.Designed with beginners in mind, they feature a supportive cuff for better balance, along with a secure combo of laces, a Velcro strap, and a buckle to keep little ankles locked in place. The 72 mm wheels and smooth-rolling bearings offer a steady, controlled ride that helps kids build confidence without going too fast too soon.K2’s soft-boot construction keeps things lightweight and cushioned, so new skaters can focus on having fun instead of breaking in stiff gear.Frame MaterialPlasticWheel Size and Type72 mm/80ANumber of Wheels4Weight5.7 lbsSarah Connor is a Reviews Editor for Popular Mechanics. She also contributes to Runner’s World, Bicycling, Best Products, and Biography.com. Before joining the Hearst Magazines team, Sarah was a National Content Editor for Hearst Television. She holds a master's in Journalism from Syracuse University and a dual bachelor's in English and Communications from the University of Pittsburgh. When she isn’t writing up a review of the newest gadgets, you can find her heading to the nearest rink for a figure skating session or enjoying the outdoors with her beloved Australian Shepherd, Rosie.Natascha is an editor and writer covering health, fitness, and the ways people move through the world. She’s been a NASM-certified personal trainer for more than a decade, with a background in functional strength training, corrective exercise, nutrition, and behavior change. She has additional CES, CNC, BCS, and SFC certifications. She is also a level-2 certified Spinning instructor. Her work has appeared in Bicycling, Runner’s World, and other outlets, and her experience spans both editorial and hands-on work across the fitness industry. Whether she’s writing about training, health, or performance, she’s most interested in making complicated topics useful, approachable, and helpful.