Choosing the Right Size for Adult Skates
Getting your very first pair of roller skates as an adult is an exciting time, especially if you haven't skated ever before or if you haven't skated in 1 million years.
And by the way, it's never to late to learn a new skill like roller skating, we know people who started skating in their 20s, their 30s, their 40s, their 50s and so on.
But how do you know your skate size?
Here's our beginners guide to finding the best size for yourself.
Roller Skates or Roller Blades
Which one would you like to buy?
The one with 4 wheels is what everyone likes to say but did you know they both have 4 wheels?
With roller skates there are 2 side-by-side in front and 2 in back.
With roller blades (or inlines) it's 4 wheels in a line down the middle of the foot. (Ok, ok, there's also a 3 wheel version but this is for the sake of the comparison).
Many people find inline skates (blades) a lot easier than roller skates but it is totally up to you.
If you have experience at rollerblading or roller skating then you might want to go with what you've had in the past as this will come most naturally to you.
Generally speaking it is easier to inline skate outdoors because rollerblades are build to go over rougher terrain a bit easier. The large and narrow wheels make outdoor skating a breeze and you will always go faster on blades with less effort.
In comparison it is a bit more difficult to skate outdoors on roller skates but certainly not impossible. In fact you can skate on either one.
If you have a certain sport in mind - roller derby is played on roller skates, roller hockey is on inlines, jam skating on roller skates, slalom skating is on inline - choose the discipline that you'll want to master.
And if in doubt, just follow your heart and get what you want to get.
If you haven't skated ever before it will just take time to learn this new skill, you won't be amazing at first and you will have to have a little bit of grit and determination.
If you want to be good straight away then I'm afraid you will have to find a different hobby.
Skating takes time and perserverance.
You can totally do this!
How Do I Find My Skate Size?
One of the most frustrating things about skates is the variety in sizing between the brands and between shoes.
Shoe size is often not the same as skate size because shoes can be in youth, mens and womens sizing and in UK, US, AU, so we advise you to measure your feet and check the size chart for the model of skate you're after.
Yes, even the brands have different sizing to each other so we strongly recommend measuring your feet.
How do I say this a third time? MEASURE YOUR FEET.
The best way to do this is wearing socks, standing up on a piece of paper and then trace each foot - left and right.
Then get a ruler and measure the longest length of the foot - once is usually slightly bigger and we would recommend fitting to the larger foot.
Once you have the length you can compare it to the size chart and choose your preferred fit.
Top Tip: You need to be standing for the most accurate measurement.
What Skate Size Should I Choose?
Once you have your tracing then you can compare it to the size chart.
If you absolutely can't do a foot tracing or if it is a gift then you can try going by the EU shoe size as this is more consistent (not foolproof of course, but usually more accurate than US and UK sizing).
Or you can remove an insole from your shoe and measure it.
The size charts are all different so check the instructions but they will usually show you either the recommended size for your foot length OR the insole length inside the boot.
Once you know your foot length, check out the size chart.
Some skates are narrow and some are wide, please keep this in mind when you're ordering and if you need some advice let us know.
Check How They Fit
Once you've chosen the skates and you're trying them on, how will you know if they fit?
Feet should feel snug but not cramped with toes flat and not bunched up or crossing over each other.
Laces should allow for a secure, snug feel without being overly loose or tight.
Once the skates are laced and secured, your foot shouldn't be able to easily slip in and out of the boot.
If you prefer a performance fit then go for a more snug fit knowing they will break in over time.
If you prefer a more comfort fit then make sure there is room to wiggle your toes and that your feet don't feel cramped.
There is no universal fitting advice as everyone is different, some people love a super tight performance fit while others love a looser more comfortable skate.
At the end of the day it is your foot and you are responsible for choosing what you like.
Only you can feel your feet inside the boot, so you need to make the final decision.
Once you are sure the fit is good, you're good to go.
Shop Adult Recreational Inlines here.
Shop Adult Roller Skates here.
If you're interested in sizing skates for a growing child we have a blog for that too, you can read it here.