Searching for the BEST roller skates for women? You’ve arrived at the perfect corner of the internet! Our resident roller skating expert, Lisa, is here to share her insights and top picks. With her impressive 35 years of roller skating experience, she will guide you through the top skates for women, providing in-depth reviews and expert level advice.
Our recommendations will assume that you are not a complete beginner to roller skating and have some experience or are getting back into the sport after some time away. If you are a beginner then you might want head over to our Best Roller Skates For Beginners Article HERE.
Best Roller Skates for Women
The roller skates in the following table are THE top-rated roller skates for women! You can use these skates for recreation, outdoor trail skating, indoor skating at the rink, fitness & exercise, dancing | jam | rhythm skating, speed skating and carving it up at the skate park.
Keep the following in mind:
You can turn any skate into outdoor roller skates or indoor skates by simply changing out the wheels. Most skates on the list come stock with outdoor wheels. This is fine to start with (even indoors at a rink) but you’ll want to grab a decent set of indoor roller skate wheels if you’re going to skate at the rink regularly. Outdoor wheels have a lot of grip and drag that’ll slow you down at a rink. I personally use, love and recommend the Rollerbones 98a Indoor Wheels that are extremely affordable for a set of 8.
Don’t get boxed into categories. Skate what you love and feel comfortable with. I can’t stress this enough…if there is a roller derby skate you love but you don’t derby…that’s not a big deal…you can still skate in them. If there is a skate park skate you love but you only skate on the trails…that’s not a big deal…you can still skate in them. Don’t let categories dictate the right skate for you.
Suede roller skates can be used indoors or outdoors but are not easy to clean and get dirty easily when used outdoors regularly. If you’re skating suede boots outdoors I recommend that you protect them with inexpensive boot covers or choose darker colors. If you’re concerned about moisture/dirt and road grime (which are common when skating outdoors) an easy to clean leather or synthetic boot might be best if this concerns you.
We’ll go in depth on the many other factors to consider just after the comparison tables. We also review each of these quad skates in depth.
Best Roller Skates for Women with Wide Feet
If your feet fall on the wider side you may want to check out some specific skates that run a bit wide. We’ve listed all the best roller skates for wide feet below.
Best Skates For Roller Derby
If you’re heading into the exciting world of roller derby or just CRAVE speed at the roller rink you’ll want to check out our next comparison table for the best skates for roller derby.
What to Look for in the Best Roller Skates for Women
Roller Skate Boots
When you’re out there choosing your perfect skate, remember that the cut and material of your boot make a huge difference in your ride. High-cut boots give you that solid ankle support, while low-cut boots are all about speed and freedom of movement .
As for the material, synthetic materials won’t break the bank, but they won’t last as long as a genuine leather or suede boot. Trust me, investing in a more durable boot is worth it in the long run if you’re serious about skating long term.
If you need help understanding how a roller skate should fit you OR how to measure your foot for roller skate sizing head over HERE.
NOTE! All roller skate boots have a break-in period where they may feel stiff and uncomfortable. Synthetic materials have a longer break in period than leather or suede. Don’t give up because your boots may be a tad uncomfortable at first.
Padding
Don’t underestimate the importance of the padding inside the roller skate boot and tongue area…especially if you need extra ankle support, skate for long hours or blister easily.
From my MANY years of experience, I can tell you that proper padding can make or break your skate sessions and overall enjoyment of skating. A well-padded boot helps absorb impact, reduce pressure points, and prevent blisters – all crucial for a smoother ride and longer skate sessions. Trust me, investing in a boot with quality padding is key to enjoying the ride and avoiding unnecessary pain or injuries.
Plates
The underside of your skate boot is attached to the skate plate. You can choose between a nylon or glass impregnated nylon plate and an aluminum plate. Nylon is lighter and less expensive but it’s not as durable as aluminum (they are know to break). Aluminum plates will last a lifetime, but they’re a bit heavier and bit more expensive. If you are on the heavier side weight wise you’ll want to go with Aluminum plates.
Toe Stops
When it comes to the toe stops on roller skates, there are two main types: adjustable and non-adjustable. Adjustable toe stops give you the freedom to customize their height according to your personal preference and skating style. By tweaking the toe stop, you can find the sweet spot that offers the best control and stability when stopping or performing certain moves. The rubber stopper can be easily replaced.
On the other hand non-adjustable toe stops (also known as fixed or bolt-on toe stops) come with a fixed height and position. They’re usually more budget friendly however, their lack of customization means you’ll have to adapt to the set position and height, which might not be ideal for everyone.
I personally recommend going with adjustable toe stops whenever possible.
Wheels
The hardness of roller skate wheels is indicated by a durometer rating, usually ranging between 70A and 100A. A higher rating means a harder wheel and a lower rating means a softer wheel. For outdoor skating, softer wheels are the way to go because they absorb shock and have good grip. Harder wheels are more suitable for rink skating because they have more slide and less grip.
You should also keep wheel size in mind. Smaller wheels enhance agility and facilitate tricks, whereas larger wheels provide better shock absorption and are suited for covering greater distances. In a nutshell, outdoor skating typically calls for larger, softer wheels, while indoor skating tends to require smaller, harder wheels.
NOTE! Many of our recommendations come with indoor or outdoor specific wheels. You can purchase a 2nd set of wheels so you have both indoor wheels and outdoor wheels available (this is what most indoor/outdoor skaters do).
Wheel Bearings
Roller skate bearings come quality levels, which can impact the performance of your skates. The two main factors to consider when comparing roller skate bearings are the ABEC rating and the material used.
ABEC Rating
The ABEC (Annular Bearing Engineering Committee) rating is a scale that measures the precision and tolerance of a bearing. The ratings usually range from ABEC 1 (least precise) to ABEC 9 (most precise). Higher-rated bearings offer better precision, which can result in a smoother and faster ride.
Bearing Material
Bearings are typically made of steel or ceramic. Steel bearings are the most common and affordable option. They offer good performance and durability. Ceramic bearings are more expensive but provide less friction, a longer lifespan and better resistance to moisture (rust).
When choosing roller skate bearings, consider your skating style, skill level, and budget. Casual and beginner skaters might find steel bearings with a moderate ABEC rating sufficient, while more advanced or competitive skaters may benefit from investing in higher-rated steel or ceramic bearings for optimal performance.
SKate By Skate In Depth Roller Skate ReviewS
Next, we’re going to hit all our best roller skates for women recommendations with in depth reviews. Make sure you’ve read our section on what to look for in a good pair of roller skates. This section is located near the top of this post. You’ll be able to see all the visual cues of a quality roller skate so you can make the best buying decision.
Riedell Crew Roller Skates
The Riedell Crew Roller Skates are an exceptional pair of skates. The boots are made of real leather which means they will slowly conform to your foot over time (albeit not as fast as a suede leather boot like the Moxi Lolly’s might).
The boot is really, really high-quality and provides exceptional ankle support. The padded, cushioned tongue and lining provide a comfortable and snug fit. The lining is known as dri-lex and is like a rubbery foam padding. It has some grip to it which makes these skates easier to control.
This skate is also equipped with PowerDyne Thrust Nylon plates which are lightweight but strong plates. I know a lot of skaters using this exact plate and their absolutely loving them.
The 85 A 62 mm wheels (Sonar Zen) deliver a smooth ride on a variety of outdoor surfaces. These outdoor wheels are fine to skate on at the rink to start but you’ll want to have a set of indoor wheels in the future.
The Riedell Crew is totally crushing it with the trendy retro colors (which I know will hit a chord with a lot of our readers).
In a word, the Riedell Crew is a just quality from top to bottom. With their high-quality boot design, lightweight and responsive plates these skates are perfect for taking your skating to new heights. These roller skates are great for outdoor use because they are easy to clean. They are a tad more expensive skates but are really high quality. This is our top pick and overall best roller skates.
Moxi Lolly Roller Skates
The Moxi Lolly Roller Skates rank exceptionally high on our list (my lavendar Lollies are my favorite roller skates in the stable). With a high-quality boot that breaks in uber fast (the quickest among our recommendations). This colorful suede upper will mold to your foot and ankle like a leather glove.
These skates come with bigger wheels specifically designed for outdoor skating. However, with a set of set of good indoor wheels you can easily adapt them for indoor or rink skating. If you plan to skate exclusively outdoors, they’re ready to roll as is.
While the ankle support is pretty good, this skate is better suited for those with some prior skating experience, as the boot is not as supportive or rigid as some hard boots out there (particularly after the break in period).
What stands out about the Moxi Lolly Roller Skates is that it will support your transition to intermediate and advanced level skating without the need to buy a new pair of skates. By upgrading components like the plate, you can elevate your skating experience to greater heights.
Last but not least I LOVE the Lolly’s styling. With seven on trend colors (and matching outdoor wheels)…you’re bound to find a color that resonates with your personal style. Don’t forget to check out the Lolly Malibu Barbie Tribute Skates and the Moxi Panther’s if you want a pair of black skates (which won’t show grime/dirt and scrapes as easily).
Because suede is hard to clean (and particularly susceptible to road grime or scuffs from falls) I recommend looking into ways to protect your skates like skate boot covers or toe covers. You can easily take them off when it’s show time at the rink!
Jackson Vista Roller Skates
As a former competitive skater, I was totally psyched to try out the Jackson Vista Roller Skates and see how they compared to some of the competitive Jackson figure skates I have owned in the past.
After several weeks of testing, I’m pleased to say that these skates exceeded my expectations in terms of style, comfort, and overall performance. If you’ve worn competitive figure skate Jacksons in the past you’ll really like the performance of this more recreational skate.
The Jackson Vista Roller Skates feature comfortable, supportive and soft boots. The outside is made of either a soft microfiber or vegan leather depending on color choice. The microfiber will have a shorter break in time but isn’t as durable. The vegan leather boot will be more durable but have a longer break in time.
The uber padded boot and tongue provide excellent cushioning. It feels kinda like your foot is being wrapped in a puffy cotton cloud- such a good fit. There is also a soft and breathable lining for those who pine for longer skating sessions.
The Vista comes with a lightweight and durable Viper nylon plate. They also feature my FAVORITE outdoor wheels- the Atom Pulse (62mm, 78A hardness). These wheels provide a smooth and cushy ride on a variety of rough, paved surfaces. If you think you’ll be skating indoors you’ll want to snag a pair of indoor wheels at some point down the road.
The width falls medium side but I wouldn’t exactly describe them as ideal for wide feet…they’re kind of in the middle. There is a wide range of very attractive colors and designs available that I think would suit a wide range of styles.
Overall, the Jackson Vista Roller Skates are a stylish, comfortable, and high-performing option for skaters of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a reliable and quality skate or an experienced skater in search of a comfort and performance, the Jackson Vista Roller Skates are an excellent choice.
Sure Grip Boardwalk 1300 Roller Skates
The Sure-Grip Boardwalk 1300 is a classic. It’s the perfect blend of classic design and modern performance features, designed to deliver an exceptional skating experience for all skill levels. With their high-quality construction and components, these roller skates provide unrivaled comfort, durability, and style.
This neutral toned, suede boot goes with everything and sorta disappears in the background…making your skating look effortless to everyone around you.
The Sure-Grip 1300 feature a top-quality, durable suede leather boot that flexibility and support. The suede will conform to your foot like a leather glove over time for THE perfect fit.
The Sure-Grip 1300 Roller Skates come equipped with Super X aluminum plates, offering a lightweight and durable foundation. The Sure Grip Aerobic 80a wheels are designed for outdoor skating but snagging a set of indoor wheels can make this setup complete.
My only complaint is that these are equipped with ABEC-3 bearings so I would upgrade these to Roller Bones or Bones bearings ASAP for best results.
If you LOVE the vintage/retro aesthetic while enjoying modern performance features, these eye-catching skates will do the job.
The Sure-Grip 1300 Roller Skates offer a unique combination of classic design, comfort, and modern performance features, making them an excellent choice for skaters of all levels.
Moxi Beach Bunny Roller Skates
In my opinion, Moxi Beach Bunny Skates are hands down the most affordable roller skates for women. I’d also say they are the best roller skates for women who are beginners. I personally use Moxi Beach Bunny Skates for outdoor sessions (and indoors too, but with a switch to a reliable set of indoor wheels).
The boots are sturdy, high-quality, and well-padded around the ankle and tongue. The base plates are made of aluminum alloy, and the wheels offer excellent grip for outdoor skating.
Moxi Beach Bunny Skates fall on the more affordable side of Moxi’s Roller Skate range. The Brushed Suede Moxi Lolly’s are another great option, although they cater to intermediate skaters and come at a higher price point.
I’ve owned my Moxi Beach Bunny Skates for over a decade and frequently use them both indoors and outdoors. So far, I’ve only needed to replace the bearings, toe stop and laces.
These skates are high-quality, comfortable, and durable and suitable for beginners and intermediate skaters alike.
The boots do have a break-in period, but it’s nothing out of the ordinary for vegan leather skates. Overall, they really maintain their shape over time, providing the extra ankle support some skaters need (especially OG skaters like me). Overall I give it a rave review.
One of my favorite things about Moxi skates, besides their quality, support, and comfort, is their stylish design. The vibrant and bold colors brighten your mood every time you see them. Pair them with some light-up wheels & they’re hard to beat. I even made a review/unboxing video for you to see them in action!
Moxi Beach Bunny Skates will smoothly accompany you as you transition to advanced skating, so there’s no need to upgrade when the time comes. These are the best roller skates for outdoor use because they are really easy to clean.
My only complaint is the included outdoor wheels aren’t great for use over long distances. They are really soft wheels that make you feel like your skating through mud. They’re fine for practicing your outdoor skills, short distances on rough surfaces and uneven surfaces…but terrible for long cruises IMHO.
Riedell Orbit Roller Skates
These bold and eye catching Orbit Roller Skates come from a trusted brand in both the roller skate and ice skate world: Riedell. These skates cater to both beginners and experienced skaters alike, offering a nice blend of style, comfort, good support and performance.
The Riedell Orbit Roller Skates feature a quality synthetic boot that is both lightweight and durable. The boot is comfortable and supportive around the ankle area and includes a cushioned tongue.
Much like their closest competitor, the Moxi Beach Bunny, this skate has a longer break in time than a suede or vegan suede boot. I have to say that the Orbit does not have as much padding inside the boot as the Moxi Beach Bunny which is a bit of a negative for the overall comfort rating. They’re easy to clean so they’re a great choice for outdoor skates.
The Riedell Orbit Roller Skates come equipped with high-quality Marvel aluminum metal plates and trucks which should last you the lifetime of these skates.
The Sonar 57mm, 85A urethane wheels on the Riedell Orbit Roller Skates will provide a smooth and comfortable ride outdoors. These are the best roller skates for outdoor use because they are really easy to clean. If your goals are to skate indoors at the rink mainly you may want to invest in a set of indoor wheels.
The available range of ombre colors are really, really eye catching…these skates are sure to turn heads. Overall, I do like the Moxi Beach Bunnies more based on the additional boot padding but if you don’t feel like you like or need or want that extra padding this is an excellent competitor and one of the best beginner skates you can buy.
Best Roller skates for Wide Feet Women
I’m often asked by readers to recommend the best skates for wide feet. Fortunately, there are several roller skates tailored to wider feet that encompasses all the features we value in a high-quality woman’s skate.
Bont ParkStar Roller Skates
The Bont Parkstar Roller Skate is a versatile and stylish quad skate designed for skaters of all levels. Technically this roller skate is geared towards outdoor skating and park | ramp skating (as in skate park) BUT there is no reason why you couldn’t use these as your primary skate for trails, the rink…you name it.
It’s worth noting that these skates do not have heels. If you’re used to skates with heels this may be a bit of an adjustment but you may find them overall more comfortable than heeled skates in the long run.
The parkstars are definitely one of the best skates for wide feet. I really like the lightweight construction of the boot (vegan suede) and and heat moldable boot allows you to DIY a custom fit at home with your hair dryer in a couple of minutes.
The high-top boot design provides nice ankle support while the suede like material allows for excellent flexibility and movement.
As an added bonus, the break-in time on these boots is pretty short. They fit like a comfy shoe and everyone I know who skates on them…loves them and would never skate on anything else.
The Bont Parkstar Roller Skate comes equipped with Street Flow 58mm x 32mm, 89A hardness urethane wheels that are ideal for street and park skating. If you did want to take these indoors you may want to grab a set of indoor wheels.
I also really like that the Parkstar Roller Skate includes a replaceable rubber toe stop. This area usually sees the most damage in a fall so it’s nice to see that you can replace this when it wears out.
This skate comes in a really wide range of pretty, vibrant colors so you can express your unique style and personality.
In my opinion, the Bont Parkstar Roller Skate offers the perfect blend of comfort, performance, and style. You just can’t go wrong with this quality skate….it’s among the best roller skates for park and ramp skating.
VNLA Parfait Roller Skates
The VNLA Parfait Quad Roller Skates boast solid aluminum plates, a stiffer upper boot for support, and an attractive design.
The price point is on par with Moxi Beach Bunnies but the boots have a much shorter break-in period due to the softer faux suede material that eases in more quickly.
These skates come with outdoor wheels, but you can purchase a set of indoor wheels when needed. For those with narrow or slightly narrower feet, inserts could potentially make these skates work.
In our opinion, these skates are top notch like many of the other skates we’ve discussed but are a better choice for women with wider feet. If you have narrow or regular width feet, the Moxi Beach Bunny or Lolly might be a more suitable option.
The VNLA Parfait Quad Roller Skates will accompany you as you progress to intermediate-level skating, eliminating the need to upgrade when the time comes. They can take you through dance and make decent jam skates.
Best Roller Derby Skates
Bont QuadStar Speed | Roller Derby Skates
The Bont Quadstar Roller Skates are THE pinnacle for derby skating. After putting these skates through their paces, I can confidently say that they live up to their high-performance claims and offer a fantastic skating experience for both intermediate and advanced skaters.
The Bont Quadstar Roller Skates feature a heat-moldable thermo plastic boot that can be custom molded to your foot at home with a hair dryer and a few minutes of your time. It also features a light weight carbon fiber base made for speed.
The boot has a durable genuine leather uppers that provide a “like a glove” fit over time. The ankle area and tongue are well padded to further enhance the overall comfort. The stitching and overall build quality are really top-notch, and after several months of use, my skates still look and feel like new. The Quadstars are built to withstand the rigors of high-intensity roller derby and speed skating.
Equipped with the lightweight Bont 6061 Aircraft Aluminum Tracer plate and a 20-degree king pin angle which will deliver outstanding responsiveness, cornering and agility on the track.
The Quadstars come with 60mm, 92A Bont Ballistic wheels that offer an excellent balance of grip and roll on indoor | roller rink surfaces. These skates come pre-loaded with ABEC 7 bearings.
The Bont Quadstar Roller Skates have an eye-catching retro design that will absolutely appeal to many roller derby and speed skaters.
While the Quadstar may be on the higher end of the price spectrum, the quality and performance they offer make them well worth the investment. If you are a dedicated roller derby or speed skater seeking a high-performance skate that can keep up with your skill level, the Quadstar skates are an excellent choice.
Sure-Grip Rebel Avanti Roller Skates
The Sure-Grip Rebel Avanti Roller Skates are a roller derby staple. Designed to cater to a wide range of derby skaters, from beginners to seasoned veterans.
They feature a durable genuine leather boot designed to withstand a beating and come fully equipped with comfy padded lining and tongue
The Sure-Grip Rebel comes with highly rated Avanti Aluminum plates which are specially angled for speed and cornering.
The Sure-Grip Rebels are fitted with 62mm, 89A Sure-Grip Fugitive wheels that provide a smooth and stable ride indoor surfaces. These can be used outdoors…you just need a set of outdoor specific wheels that are a bit softer and offer more grip.
The Sure-Grip Avanti Roller Skates offer an unparalleled combination of performance, comfort, and durability, making them an excellent choice for roller derby skaters of all levels. With their comfy boots, robust aluminum plates, wheels made for speed it’s no wonder they are a staple of the derby world.
How to Pick a Good Roller Derby Skate:
The best roller skates for roller derby (or speed skating at the rink) should include a few elements. Prioritize a boot with a snug and secure fit and durable materials to withstand the borderline murderous rigors of roller derby.
Next, look for a lightweight and responsive plate, ideally made of aluminum with an appropriate truck angle to enable quick turns and agile movements. Aluminum plates give you more control and stability than nylon plates and you need it at the speed and intensity of roller derby.
Wheel hardness (durometer) should be suited to suited to the surface you’ll be bouting on. Harder wheels (90A and above) are suitable for smooth rink like surfaces, while softer wheels (88A and below) provide better grip on rough or slippery surfaces.
Finally, invest in bearings built for speed (I recommended upgrading just about any skate to Roller Bones or Bones).
FAQs: Best Roller Skates for Women
What are the best roller skate brands for women?
Some of the top roller skate brands for women include Riedell, Sure-Grip, Moxi, Jackson, VNLA, Bont and BTFL. These are trusted brands offer a range of styles, materials, and designs to cater to the specific needs of female skaters, from beginners to professionals.
These brands are trusted for a reason…if you don’t see the brand you’re interested on this list that’s probably for a reason. With roller skating’s return to popularity there are a lot of fly by night brands who’ve decided to throw a roller skate together to sell on the cheap. Usually they’re made with plastic trucks, covered in rhinestones and selling for under a hundred bucks.
How do I choose the right size roller skates for women?
To find the perfect size roller skates for women, measure your feet in centimeters or inches, and refer to the brand-specific sizing chart. If you want to know how to properly measure your feet for roller skate sizing head HERE. We also go in depth on how roller skates should fit. Do those measurement so you can find the right roller skates the first time.
What features should I consider when looking for the best roller skates for women?
When searching for the best roller skates for women, consider factors such as boot design and comfort, plate material, wheel hardness, and bearing quality. Prioritize a boot with a snug and supportive fit, lightweight plates, wheels suited to your preferred skating surface, and smooth-rolling bearings for optimal performance.
Are high-top or low-top roller skates better for women?
The choice between high-top and low-top roller skates for women depends on personal preference and skating style. High-top skates will offer more ankle support and stability making them perfect for beginners and recreational skaters.
Low-top skates, on the other hand, allow for more freedom of movement, cornering and are often preferred by experienced skaters who speed skate or compete in roller derby.
Can women use men’s roller skates, or should they specifically look for women’s roller skates?
While some women may find men’s roller skates suitable, it’s generally recommended to choose women’s roller skates for a more accurate and comfortable fit. Women’s roller skates are typically designed with a narrower width and a different heel-to-toe ratio, catering to the specific shape of women’s feet.
Note: some brands do not distinguish between men and women when it comes to skate sizing. You’ll often find sizing for women and men on the same size chart.
What are the best roller skates for women who are just starting to learn?
For women who are new to roller skating, it’s important to choose skates with a well padded, supportive and comfortable boot. A quality aluminum plate and wheels suitable for the intended skating surface are important too. I cover the Best Roller Skates for Beginners HERE quite in depth. In summary, really like the Moxi Beach Bunny or VNLA Parfait for beginners.
How much should I expect to spend on a good pair of roller skates for women?
The cost of roller skates for women can vary widely, depending on factors such as boot material, wheels and components. A quality pair of roller skates typically falls within the price range of $150 to $350. However, more advanced or specialized skates can cost upwards of $500-$1200. It’s essential to balance your budget with your skating needs and preferences to find the best value for your investment. Having your own skates will allow you to practice more often (at your leisure) and become a better skater.
Whether you’re using roller skates or inline skates be sure to wear protective gear like a helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads and knee pads.
I hope you’ve been able to narrow down your search for the best roller skates for women. As you continue your search seek out opinions from fellow skaters and experts at your local roller rink. Don’t box yourself in…where what you like and what you feel comfortable in- pick the RIGHT skates for you.
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