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Do you want to know the difference between roller skates and rollerblades? Then, you come to the right place. Your search ends here.
There is some sportsperson who have a different opinion on roller skates and rollerblades. As a beginner, you may be confused to decide which one will be better for you.
There is some confusion in using the terms ‘rollerblading’ and ‘inline skating’. Apparently, it seems that these two are different activities while they are actually, two different names of the same sport.
To be more perfect, rollerblading refers to utilizing inline skates by Rollerblade. Rollerblade is nothing but the specific manufacturer of inline skates. Inline skating is the proper name for the sport and is more generic in comparison with others.
The confusion arises as some people say ‘rollerblading’ while they want to mean inline skating.

The reason behind this confusion is the Rollerblade company. Rollerblade company played a huge role in making skating so much popular. Actually, Inline skates are usually called rollerblades. Practically speaking, Rollerblade did not invent, manufacture, or design the very first inline skates.
Basically, inline skating or ‘inline roller skating’ is the official name of ‘rollerblading’ or ‘blading’ sports, and the correct name for ‘Rollerblades’ is ‘inline skates’. It may be manufactured by any other company. In case, you are using Rollerblade brand skate, you are actually rollerblading. If it is not so, then you are inline skating.
Frankly speaking, roller skating is always great fun and at the same time offers a huge health tolerance training both outdoors and indoors. However, the two types of skating are different from one another. You will find the difference not only in the appearance but also in the features.
various features of roller skates and rollerblades (Inline skates):
Many beginners of skateboarding think, which one is easy to drive – roller skates or inline skates?
If you want to know the difference between roller skates or inline skates, you have to know the various features of roller skates and rollerblades. In this regard, you should also know the features of some other inline skates.
Here, we are ready to provide you the various features of roller skates and rollerblades (Inline skates).
Let’s start…

What are the primary objectives of skating?
There are some people who are eager to know the main objectives of skating. Frankly speaking, both the skates and blades are often used for fun and recreation. The people who are looking for a serious workout, they use blades. Many experts consider these types to be good aerobic exercise tools.
We always say ‘past is past’. But, in this regard, we should remember that the past makes the future. So, we must know about the history of skating.
Don’t you want to know the history?
Actually, roller skates and roller blades both have different histories. In the 1970s, roller skates were very popular among children. In alternative areas, skating was a cultural phenomenon. They were first introduced in 1760 in Europe. Today’s modern form was first devised in the year 1863.
On the other hand, rollerblades were first developed in the year 1980s. primarily, it was a substitute training for ice skating. In the 1980s and 1990s, they became popular with the marketing of the rollerblade brand of inline skates.
Is Rollerblading easier than Roller Skating?
Everyone is always willing to get comfort in the area which he or she is acquainted with. People love to Quad skates than to inliners.
Generally, roller skates consist of a soft or semi-soft boot. It signifies that the outer shoe is prepared for soft material like faux leather. Remember one thing that there is no hard outer shell. For this reason, when you put on or take off the shoe, it becomes easier and the comfort level of wearing is very high.
On the other hand, Inline skates have a hard outer shell. The outer shell is obviously made of hard plastic or a similar product and optimally supports the foot. When you put on or take off, the skates appear a little bit complicated. In spite of all these, the foot is better stabilized and resists buckling of the ankle.
Have you any idea about Lock Mechanisms?
To know the various types of skates, you should have clear knowledge about the lock mechanism. Without knowing the lock mechanism, your idea won’t be clear.
As the roller skates consist of retro design, they are prepared with the typical lace closure. On the other hand, Inline skates consist of push-lock buckles.
To get a better grip option, the laces or buckles should be supplemented with Velcro straps.
Difference between values:
This is the last but not least thing. Everyone is always willing to get their desired thing at a very cheap rate maintaining the quality. I think, you also do that.

Am I right?
Most of the skates are worthless in comparison with Inliners. Though, like any other thing, there are some exceptions also.
The range of most of the skates is between 40-100$. Quad skates hardly cross the limit of 100$. You may the exception, while someone uses it for the purpose of the sport. Usually, roller skates cost over 500$. Any roller derby or roller hockey often starts with a three-digit mark.
Stability purpose:
As a beginner at skating, you will always want to get a stable product. Personally, I also refer you to buy a stable product.
Generally, Inline skates are more stable and provide riders with more grip. They are consistently rigid on the heels, on the sides. Moreover, they cover a larger part than any traditional roller skates.
This stability provides the riders more confidence than ever. As a beginner, you can balance easily.
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Conclusion:
Here, we provide you a complete assessment of the difference between roller skates and rollerblades. Now, it is your time to decide which skate you will use. Do not stick to our assessment only. As a beginner, you have to find out which skate will provide you much safety and comfort. Choose your skates according to your expectations and demands on the skates.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. Are roller skates or blades better for outdoors?
Inline skates or roller blades are absolutely ideal for outdoor skating. Actually, inline skates are less stable than quads. Possibly, for this reason, most of the casual rink skaters like quads to inlines.
Q. What kind of roller skates are best for outdoors?
Generally, good roller skates consist of high-quality fiber plates with strong metal trucks, easy to lace, and comfortable fit, capable of the smoothest riding, safety design, and fun and unique style.
Q. Does roller skating count as exercise?
Actually, coordinating balance and leg movement develops coordination. The famous American Heart Association announces roller skating as a fruitful aerobic exercise that assists to strengthen the heart.
Q. How long does it take to learn roller skating?
If you learn the very basics of skating like turns, accelerate, keeping balance, stop and feel comfortable on skates, it will take about 5-10 rides for 1-2 hours. It depends on an individual.
Q. How many calories do 2 hours of roller skating burn?
The famous American Heart Association recognizes roller skating as an excellent aerobic exercise. An hour of roller skating can burn 330 calories for a 143-pound person. If that particular person roller skates up to 10 mph, he or she will burn up to 600 calories in an hour.
Q. Does roller skating burn more calories than running?
You can burn nearly as many calories on roller skates as you do running. According to Harvard Health Publications for a 125-pound person, that’s 210 calories inline skating for 30 minutes versus 240 calories running 12 minutes miles for a similar duration.
Hi, I am Krishnendu. I am a professional fitness and sports expert, and this is my passion and hobby. I like skating games and sports. I always share my updated knowledge with you. If you are satisfied with my article, please like and share it. And if you have any suggestions, you can send me a comment.