Get Your Skates On! The Very Best Roller Skates for Kids and Top Safety Tips

If you’ve got a gift to buy for a child’s upcoming birthday, or your own kid has been nagging you for a pair for ages—then choosing some roller skates could be on the cards. Loved by children for generations, roller skates offer endless fun for boys and girls alike—and older kids, too.

But with so many options on the market, selecting the best pair can be tricky. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In the guide below we’re going to tell you all about the very best roller skates for kids, and the safety tips you need to know to ensure little ones have the best experience on their new wheels possible.

Contents:

• When Should a Kid Learn to Rollerskate?
• How to Select Skates for Kids?
  • Types of Skates
  • Tips for Choosing Roller Skates
  • How About Adjustable Sizes?
• The Best Roller Skates for Kids
  • Our Top Picks
• How to Teach Your Kid to Skate?
• Safety Tips
• FAQs

When Should a Kid Learn to Rollerskate?

While all kids are different, it’s generally best to wait until your child is between the ages of two and four before attempting to teach them to skate, as skating requires a significant amount of agility and balance.

To learn to rollerskate, a child should be able to balance on one foot, hop from one foot to the other, run, and walk backward. If they’ve mastered all of these things and—of course—are interested in skating, there’s a good chance they’re ready for their first pair of roller skates!

How to Select Skates for Kids?

Types of Skates

Broadly speaking, you’ve got a choice between quad roller skates (which have four wheels per skate, two at the front and two at the back) and inline skates (also known as rollerblades) which incorporate a line of three or four wheels on each skate.

For younger kids, quad skates are likely a great choice. They offer greater stability than rollerblade options, and it’s generally easier to learn on quads than inline skates. Further, quad skates put less stress on the ankle and joints and make it easier to achieve straight-line speed, something that many beginner skaters are keen to master!

Older kids, youths, and children who can already skate comfortably may prefer rollerblades, which offer a more streamlined ride, better maneuverability, and are designed for speed. They look pretty cool, too!

Tips for Choosing Roller Skates

When choosing a pair of roller skates for a child or teen it’s vital to take into account their age and skill level to pick the most suitable size and type. While there are many online retailers offering skates, visiting a shop in person is the best way to try on a variety of sizes to get the best fit possible.

You’ll also need to consider whether the roller skates will be used for indoor or outdoor skating (hard wheels are best for the former, and soft for the latter), and look at the type of closures on the different models available. Straps and buckles are usually easier for younger kids to manage, while laces offer a more customized—and therefore secure—fit. It’s important to only choose skates with high-quality safety features including good brakes that are easy to operate and comfortable ankle support.

How About Adjustable Sizes?

When choosing roller skates for kids, you may want to think about a pair that incorporates adjustable sizing. This feature allows skates to grow with the child, and are typically adjustable up to three or four sizes.

Some skates can also transform from quad to inline roller skates, meaning there’s no need to buy a new pair once your kid has mastered the basics.

Size charts for adjustable skates can help you choose the right fit for your child. Here’s a general guide to understanding skate sizes and the ranges they typically cover. Note that specific sizes and ranges can vary by brand, so always refer to the manufacturer’s size chart when purchasing.

General Size Chart for Adjustable Skates

Kids’ Shoe Size	Adjustable Skate Size Range
6-8 US (Toddler)	6-8 US / 22-25 EU
9-11 US (Toddler)	9-11 US / 26-28 EU
12-13 US (Youth)	12-13 US / 29-31 EU
1-3 US (Youth)	1-3 US / 32-34 EU
4-6 US (Youth)	4-6 US / 35-37 EU

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Size Chart for Inline Skates and Quad Skates

Inline Skates

Kids’ Shoe Size	Adjustable Skate Size Range
8-11 US (Toddler)	8-11 US / 24-28 EU
12-1 US (Youth)	12-1 US / 29-32 EU
2-5 US (Youth)	2-5 US / 33-37 EU

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Quad Skates

Kids’ Shoe Size	Adjustable Skate Size Range
7-10 US (Toddler)	7-10 US / 23-27 EU
11-13 US (Youth)	11-13 US / 28-31 EU
1-3 US (Youth)	1-3 US / 32-34 EU

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Additional Tips for Using Size Charts

1. Measure your child’s feet: Use a foot measuring tool or follow the manufacturer’s instructions to measure your child’s feet accurately. This ensures a better fit.
2. Check the size range: Confirm that the adjustable skate covers the current size of your child’s feet and has room for growth. Some skates cover a wider range than others.
3. Consider growth spurts: If your child is in between sizes or has frequent growth spurts, you might want to choose skates with a larger adjustment range to maximize usability.
4. Try on before buying: Whenever possible, have your child try on the skates to ensure proper fit and comfort, especially if they are at the edge of a size range.
5. Consult brand-specific charts: Different brands might have slightly different size ranges and adjustments. Always refer to the specific size chart provided by the brand.

Keep an eye on your child’s whereabouts as they explore the world on their roller skates with the Findmykids app. With real-time tracking and instant alerts, you’ll always know they’re safe. Download Findmykids now to ensure their safety and your peace of mind.

The Best Roller Skates for Kids

Now we’ve had a look at what to consider when choosing roller skates for kids, it’s time to run down the top options, from the best skates for toddlers to perfect options for serious serial skaters.

Our Top Picks

Best Roller Skates for Very Young Kids	Grow With Me Adjustable Roller Skates	3–6 years	$29.99
Best Quad Skates for Indoor and Outdoor Use	Riedell RW Wave	5+	$99.99
Best Skates That Can Adjust from Quad to Inline	Roller Derby Falcon 2-in-1	5+	$40
Best Skates with Flashing Wheel Lights	Sulifeel Kids Rollerskates with Light Up Wheels	5+	$59.99
Best Skates for Older Kids and Teens	Liku Professional Unisex Inline Skates	10+	$94
Best Skates for Rink and Rhythm Skating	BTFL Artistic Pro Roller Skates	12+	$149
Best Roller Shoes for Kids	Ehauuo Single Wheel Shoe with Lights	5+	$24.99

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Best Roller Skates for Very Young Kids: Grow With Me Adjustable Roller Skates

• Suitable for ages: 3–6 years
• Price: $29.99

Perfect for toddlers and very young kids, these quad roller skates can adjust from shoe sizes six to twelve and are designed to offer a smooth and stable ride. Parents love the skates’ three settings: the first one allows the wearer to walk in the skates with the front wheels locked, the second allows for rolling forward but not backward, and the third setting can be activated when your child’s ready, and unlocks all the wheels for maximum roller skating fun!

Best Quad Skates for Indoor and Outdoor Use: Riedell RW Wave

• Suitable for ages: 5+
• Price: $99.99

They may not be the cheapest pair of roller skates on the market, but Ridell is one of the skate brands known for its quality and durability. These quad skates are perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, offer great ankle support, and offer a consistently smooth ride. The sturdy urethane wheels provide excellent grip on any surface, and the tough rubber toe stopper ensures easy braking control. The lace fastenings make for easy adjustment, allowing kids to get the best and most comfortable fit possible.

Best Skates That Can Adjust from Quad to Inline: Roller Derby Falcon 2-in-1 

• Suitable for ages: 5+
• Price: Around $40

Skates that can adjust from quad to inline offer the ultimate in versatility; and also mean that your child can learn to skate on the easier quads before switching to inlines once they’ve got the basics mastered.

This model, from the popular Roller Derby brand, is comfortable and supportive, and its silver-5 wheel bearings are designed for speed! Best of all, they’re adjustable in terms of sizing, too, so you won’t have to switch them out for another pair as your kid grows.

Best Skates with Flashing Wheel Lights: Sulifeel Kids Rollerskates with Light Up Wheels

• Suitable for ages: 5+
• Price: $59.99

The one thing better than a great pair of kids’ roller skates is a great pair of kids’ roller skates with light-up wheels! These skates come in three sizes, small, medium, and large, and each model can be adjusted to four sizes, meaning that not only can you find the perfect size for your child, but it’ll last for years.

These quad skates offer excellent stability, a comfort-enhancing inner lining, and wheels that illuminate without the need for batteries. This could literally be the perfect present for little and big kids alike.

Best Skates for Older Kids and Teens: Liku Professional Unisex Inline Skates

• Suitable for ages: 10+
• Price: $94

These inline skates are a great option for older kids and teens who’ve been skating for a while and are ready to take things to the next level! The integrated frame and shell system has been designed to offer enhanced control, balance, and lateral support, while the shock absorbers in the soles provide a smooth and comfortable ride. The buckle, lace, and strap closures allow your teen to achieve a highly secure fit, while the ventilated shell means that kids will stay cool no matter how hot the roller skating action is!

Best Skates for Rink and Rhythm Skating: BTFL Artistic Pro Roller Skates

• Suitable for ages: 12+
• Price: $149

If you’ve got a kid who is serious about skating in the family, then a serious set of roller skates is likely to be required. This option from BTFL is great for children who regularly skate competitively or spend a lot of time in the skating rink. They may be pricey, but their level of comfort and super high-quality credentials mean they represent great value. The toe stop can be adjusted as your child grows, and the included tool allows the wheels to be adjusted quickly on the go as needed.

Best Roller Shoes for Kids: Ehauuo Single Wheel Shoe with Lights

• Suitable for ages: 5+
• Price: From $24.99

If you’re looking for a different spin (excuse the pun!) on the roller skate idea, how about a fun pair of roller shoes for kids? These sneakers incorporate a single wheel on each sole and can be a good way for kids to get used to the sensation of gliding before moving onto a pair of quad or inline skates. This model comes in nine different colors, features cool flashing soles that are activated by walking and is sure to be a winner with fashion-conscious kids.

How to Teach Your Kid to Skate?

So now your kid’s shiny new roller skates have arrived, how to go about teaching your child how to get up and run on their new wheels? Follow the tips below to have them roller skating happily in no time!

• Before getting started, ensure they have the right safety gear—more on this below.
• Be patient, and offer lots of encouragement. Younger kids especially may be nervous and need lots of comforting after a stumble.
• To get started, have your child walk in their skates—perhaps on a carpet—picking up one foot after another and hunkering forward a little to help avoid toppling backward.
• Next, teach your kid how to glide, by asking them to keep walking forward, but lengthen their stride and try to roll on one foot before picking up the other. Keep practicing this until your child is comfortable gliding.
• Show your child how to stop by pressing their toe into the ground. If they’re nervous about attempting this, you could try asking them to stand in place and practice pressing down with their toe, to get used to the action and feeling.
• Once they’ve gotten to grips with gliding and stopping, your kid can practice other maneuvers, and, when they’re ready, have a go at building up speed.

Safety Tips

As with any physical activity, roller skating comes with the risk of accident and injury, but happily, there are plenty of things you can do to lessen the chance of a mishap.

1. Most importantly, kids should always wear a helmet when skating. Wearing knee pads, wrist guards, and elbow guards is a really good idea, too, especially for beginners.
2. You may also want to consider a mouthguard, which can help prevent broken teeth in the event of a fall.
3. Kids should only skate on dry, smooth surfaces, away from traffic, and in well-lit areas.
4. Check your child’s roller skates before each use to look for signs of damage, and, when your kid is old enough, teach them the importance of doing this themselves.
5. If your child is old enough to be going out on their own—or with friends—on their roller skates, this can be a cause of anxiety. As a parent, worrying about where our kids are and what they’re doing is part of the job description, after all! The Findmykids app is the perfect solution. Use this tool to track your child’s movements in real time, set up no-go areas, and receive notifications should your kid stray into one. It’s a great way to keep your child safe and get that all-important peace of mind.

Ensure your child’s safety while they enjoy their new roller skates with the Findmykids app. Track their location in real-time and receive alerts to keep them safe during outdoor activities. Download Findmykids today for peace of mind!

Rolling with the Good Times

Roller Skating has been a classic kids’ activity for generations for good reason: it’s fun, great for getting outside and active, and easy to pick up. If your child is ready to learn to rollerskate—or to transition from a quad to an inline model—use the guide above to identify the very best pair for their needs and that they’ll love.

Have your own kids learned to roller skate recently? We’d love to know your experiences and tips—drop us a line in the comment box below!

FAQs

What are the best skates for a 6-year-old girl?

The best skates for a 6-year-old girl will partly depend on her ability—is she a beginner skater, for example, or more confident? Generally speaking, quad skates are best due to their stability, and choosing a model with an adjustable fit means the skates will grow with your child.

How do I know what size roller skates to get for my child?

Getting the right size roller skates for your child is vital to ensure a comfortable fit and reduce the risk of injury. Do this by using the specific manufacturer’s sizing charts and having your kid try on roller skates before purchasing.

The picture on the front page: Sergey Novikov/Shutterstock.com