When it comes to purchasing skates, it is important that the fit is right to ensure a safe ride. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests choosing a pair of skates that fit snugly around your child’s ankle when strapped on or buckled. The boot should be comfortable and not overly tight or loose. We carefully considered any age recommendations, sizing, design, material, ease of cleaning, and value when reviewing products. Here are the best roller skates for kids. The Trac Star Youth Girl’s Roller Skates are our top pick because they’re adjustable, affordable, and easy to wear. These skates can grow up to four sizes with just the touch of a button. Buy them when your kid is on the smaller end of the size spectrum, and they’ll last for years. The high skate base provides plenty of support, and the buckles are quick and easy for kids to use, with no laces to tie (and retie). Rolling on urethane wheels, these skates travel well indoors and outside. Price at time of publication: $40 In both modes, the LED wheels light up (no batteries needed), so your skater will be bringing the party wherever they are. You will appreciate the versatility and high-quality construction of these skates, all while providing skaters with two options for the price of one. Price at time of publication: $65 This design will help keep kids balanced, so skating is safer and will hopefully result in less falling. Safe for indoors or outdoors, consider these perfect trainer skates for the youngest set. Price at time of publication: $30 Velcro straps are easy to adjust and encourage independence since most kids will be able to put these on themselves. Price at time of publication: $40 Eliminate the hassle of laces with easy-to-use buckles, and the washable boot liner prevents any stinky odors from developing in the boot. These high-quality skates are a good value as the adjustable sizing is ideal for quick-growing feet. Price at time of publication: $45 Perfect for a first pair, these are safe and stable for indoor or outdoor skating. The buckles help provide a perfect fit and are easy for young kids to put on themselves. Price at time of publication: $39 Choose from seven different color options, ranging from classic cotton candy and white checkered to stylin’ tropical pineapples. Price at time of publication: $50 These skates are super comfortable and easy to put on. The unisex style is not adjustable, so use the size chart (based on women’s sizing) to find the right fit for your big kid. Price at time of publication: $50
Laces vs. Buckles
You can find roller skates for kids with both lace and buckle closures. Buckles are generally quicker to open and close but can sometimes feel too tight. Laces, on the other hand, can offer a more customized fit. However, they will be more time-consuming to tie and untie, and they could loosen as your child skates, unlike a buckle.
Quad vs. Inline Skates
There are two types of roller skates that you can find for your child: quad and inline skates. Quad skates have two wheels in the front and back and are generally recommended for beginners. Inline skates have all four wheels lined up in a single row. These skates are generally recommended for children or teens who already have experience skating as they require more balance than quad skates.
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Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of an 11-year-old son, an 8-year-old son, and a 3-year old daughter. While she is not a roller skater and none of her kids have taken it up (yet!), they do all love sitting in their front yard and watching the occasional roller skater go by!
