The Best Roller Blades, According to Inline Skaters

As with so many ’90s things, roller-blading is back. Even Chris Evans does it. Even if the last time you strapped on a pair of roller blades (also known as “inline skates”) was your eighth-grade best friend’s roller-rink birthday party — there are plenty of modern options out there for all experience levels and road conditions. When it comes to investing in a pair of roller blades, there is a surprising amount to consider: the number and size of the wheels, the length of the frame (the part that the wheels are attached to), and the stiffness or cushiness of the boot, which all affect control and maneuverability. To find out which skates are the best for recreational skating, city skating, and more, we talked to eight roller-blading instructors, retailers, and skating enthusiasts about their favorites.