Posted on August 30 2026
Choosing your first pair of inline skates can be confusing. There are different wheel sizes, wheel setups, frames, boot styles and skating disciplines, and knowing which inline skates are right for you isn't always obvious.
Whether you want to learn to rollerblade, cruise around your local area, exercise, skate at a skatepark or simply have some fun, choosing the right pair of inline skates will make learning easier and more enjoyable.
This guide explains how to choose inline skates for beginners, what to look for when buying inline skates and how different inline skate setups affect the way they feel.
What Are You Going to Use Your Inline Skates For?
The first question to ask is what you actually want to do with your inline skates.
Different types of inline skates are designed for different types of skating.
Recreational Inline Skates
Recreational inline skates are designed for general skating, cruising and beginners.
They're a great choice if you want to skate around your neighbourhood, bike paths or local parks.
Fitness Inline Skates
Fitness inline skates are designed for longer-distance skating and exercise.
They often feature larger wheels and supportive boots designed to provide a comfortable skating experience over longer sessions.
Aggressive Inline Skates
Aggressive inline skates are designed for skateparks, street skating, grinds and tricks.
They generally use smaller wheels and specialised frames designed for tricks rather than speed.
Choosing the Right Inline Skate Wheel Size
One of the most important things to consider when buying inline skates is wheel size.
Inline skate wheels are measured in millimetres.
Common sizes include:
- 76mm
- 80mm
- 84mm
- 90mm
- 100mm
- 110mm
- 125mm
Generally, smaller wheels provide easier control and stability, while larger wheels can provide more speed and roll over rough surfaces more easily.
For many beginners, an 80mm inline skate setup provides a good balance between stability, control and speed.
3-Wheel vs 4-Wheel Inline Skates
You'll also see inline skates with three or four wheels.
A 3-wheel inline skate setup can accommodate larger wheels while keeping the overall frame relatively short.
This can provide speed and manoeuvrability.
A 4-wheel inline skate setup spreads the wheels across a longer contact area and can feel more stable and predictable for beginners.
Neither setup is automatically better.
How Should Inline Skates Fit?
Inline skate sizing is extremely important.
Your inline skates should feel snug and secure without causing painful pressure points.
Your heel should stay securely in place when you're skating.
Your toes shouldn't be painfully compressed against the front of the boot.
Avoid buying inline skates that are excessively loose because movement inside the boot can make skating more difficult and reduce control.
Always check the specific brand's sizing chart because inline skate sizes can vary between brands and models.
Hard or Soft Inline Skate Boots?
Inline skates generally come with either a soft boot or a hard boot.
Soft Boot Inline Skates
Soft boot inline skates are often lightweight and comfortable.
They're commonly found on recreational and fitness skates.
Hard Boot Inline Skates
Hard shell inline skates provide additional structure and support.
They're common in aggressive, urban and freestyle skating.
What Inline Skate Wheels Should Beginners Use?
Beginners generally benefit from a wheel setup that provides a balance of stability, control and speed.
A smaller wheel can make it easier to learn basic skating skills because you're closer to the ground.
Once your technique improves, you can experiment with larger inline skate wheels.
What Else Should You Buy With Inline Skates?
If you're buying your first pair of inline skates, don't forget protection.
A basic setup should include:
- Helmet
- Knee pads
- Elbow pads
- Wrist guards
Protection is particularly important when you're learning because falling is part of the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best inline skates for beginners?
The best beginner inline skates are generally comfortable, supportive and appropriately sized for the type of skating you want to do.
Are 3-wheel inline skates good for beginners?
They can be. However, beginners who prioritise stability may prefer a four-wheel setup initially.
What size inline skate wheels are best for beginners?
Around 80mm is a common beginner-friendly wheel size, although the best size depends on the skater and intended use.
Should inline skates be tight or loose?
Inline skates should fit snugly and securely without causing painful pressure.
Are inline skates good for exercise?
Yes. Inline skating can provide an effective cardiovascular workout and is popular for fitness and longer-distance skating.
Final Thoughts
The best inline skates aren't necessarily the most expensive or the fastest.
The right inline skates are the ones that fit correctly and match the type of skating you want to do.
Start with the basics, learn good skating technique and upgrade your setup as your skating develops.
