Why walk when you can skate?! Roller skating is a leisure activity that helps you engage your core leaving you refreshed. An evening rollout with friends or some random indoor skating would be perfect. Do you know what matches that energy? The right roller skates! Choosing between Chaya or Rio roller skates may be tough but this is where I come in.
I’ll say the major difference between Chaya and Rio roller skates is in comfort and technical advancement. Chayas are incredibly comfortable, they also have extra padding around the ankles making them safe for both beginners and intermediates. Rio roller skates on the other hand are the best for entry-level skaters who would like stylish details on their roller skates. They are also cool for outdoor skating.
In this article, I’ll be giving an honest review of both roller skates, including their pros and cons. You also want to know their differences and why you would need either of both and I’ve got you covered. Just stick around to find out all you need.
Chaya Roller Skates Explained
Chaya is a German roller skates brand that creates high-quality skates with great performance and improved technical advancement. You would notice how comfy and smooth they are to your feet. Chaya skates brand started as an offshoot of Powerslide, which is a parent brand to many amazing roller skates and skating gears.
Although it’s quite pricey, Chaya is known for its signature padding inside the boots and around the ankle. I love these for beginners and intermediates who would love to play safe while skating.
New #Chaya roller skates! They’re awesome!! If you need skates check out Battery Skate Shop.#shoplocal #rollerskates #happyAlly pic.twitter.com/4AHF6PlvQs
— Ally Baird (@allybairdo) April 30, 2021
However, I would advise that you use protective gear always because some collections under the Chaya brand are mid-cut boots that are not so safe as regards falling backwards.
Chaya roller skates are built with the Wicked ABEC-5 to ABEC-9 bearing type. Chayas are so advanced that they give you the right roll and speed when you go skating.
RELATED: Chaya Melrose Skates vs Impala Skates(Including Differences, Pros & Cons)
They also have a wheel hardness of 78A and a wheel size between 38-59mm. My favorite part is the plate material made of either Aluminum or reinforced nylon. This can handle the pressure of your weight when you skate and trust me it is less likely to snap when you do tricks.
Chaya roller skates are packed with trendy designs, of which the most popular are Chaya Melrose Elite roller skates, Chaya Melrose Deluxe roller skates, Chaya Krismet Barbie Patin Pro, and Chaya Voyager Roller Skates.
Finally, Chaya gives you this slipper feel under your foot. This also contributes to making them very comfortable.
Popular YouTuber and roller skating instructor, Indy Jamma Jones, gave a review of one of Chaya’s best sellers- Chaya Melrose Deluxe roller skates. She did a pretty good job of pointing out the good and bad sides to these roller skates. Have a look.
Rio Roller Skates Explained
Rio roller skates are retro-styled skating boots made with lots of colors and details in mind. These skates are the perfect skates for beginner skating who would like to add some spice to their skating adventure.
Rio roller skates are an offshoot of Rio Roller founded in the 90s and ever since they have produced quality retro-inspired designs for skate lovers. These skates are made of vegan-friendly synthetic leather and are super light to allow for more flexibility as you skate and this is why they are ideal for beginners.
In addition to being comfortable, Rio rollers are super affordable. They come with aluminum trucks and high-impact nylon plates making them the perfect quality for any beginner. These skates can handle jumping off blocks or carving in the bowl, overall it’s strong enough for regular skating.
Alternating legs baby steps #skatergirl #rollerskatingbeginner #rollergirls #skatethenightaway #spins #riorollerskates #riorollers #covidhobbies #skaters #skatingawayfrommyproblems pic.twitter.com/EojEq4UAWO
— lizziebelle_whocrafts (@Lizziebelle_who) March 4, 2021
A regular Rio roller skate is made with the ABEC 7 to ABEC 9 bearing for maximum rotation with every push. Its wheels are made in sizes between 58mm-62mm and have a wheel hardness of 82A. These wheels are perfect for indoor sessions and outdoor adventures as they take you as high above the ground.
Did I forget to mention that it comes in a well-cushioned heel and a perfectly laid inner sole and plaid tongue? In addition, Rio roller skates are made with non-adjustable toe stops specifically made for Rio skates.
To wrap it up, I attached a video giving an honest review on Rio Rollers skates, one skate, one of Rio Rollers’ best sellers including its top features and a few downsides. This should give you more clarity on Rio skates.
Why Would You Need Chaya Skates or Rio Roller Skates?
Both skates have their strengths. However, they are preferred for different uses. For example, I would advise you to go for Chaya roller skates if you’re looking for an ideal skate for roller derby, recreational quad skating, or park skating.
Chaya’s wheels come in smaller sizes and because smaller wheels are better adapted for agility and tricks, it makes them perfect for outdoor skating. If you’re looking to take giant strides during outdoor skating with extra comfort to your feet, Chaya skates are the best option.
On the other hand, Rio Roller skates are perfect skates for beginners in the learning phase. These skates provide you with the leisure of pairing fit and fashion for a wholesome skating experience. Also if you’re looking for skates that are not as pricey as other roller skates, Rio roller skates are the way to go.
Chaya Skates vs Rio Roller Skates Differences
Chaya and Rio Roller skates are both beginner skates and they are made to accommodate tricks and turns while skating but if you take a good look at them you’ll notice some huge differences. I have summarized these differences in the table below:
| Differences Based On | Chaya Skates | Rio Skates |
| Padding | These skates are well padded and leave your feet feeling comfortable and well cushioned. They also accommodate impact on your feet. Thanks to the cushioning effect from the padding. | It has thin padding that doesn’t provide extra comfort to the feet. However, using thick socks should make this a bit more comfortable for your feet. |
| Ankle Support | Its padding extends to the ankle region, so Chaya’s provide you with the perfect ankle support as you skate. | They also provide ideal ankle support however there are no paddings around the ankle region. |
| Insoles | EVA insoles | Heel support insoles |
| Bearings | Wicked ABEC-5 to 9 bearings | ABEC-7 to 9 bearings |
| Wheels | Its soft gummy wheels are made to grip the ground surface making them perfect for outdoor skating | Wheels are not soft or grippy but come in 82A which is great for outdoor skating |
| Longevity | Chaya roller skates are lightweight but also durable | Rio roller skates are less durable and less quality |
| Plate | Plates are a mixture of reinforced nylon and fiberglass. | Plates are made of high-impact nylon. |
| Toe stops | They come with adjustable toe stops | They come with non-adjustable (fixed) toe stops |
Chaya Skates vs Rio Roller Skates Pros and Cons
Pros of Chaya Skates
- High-quality brand
- They are durable
- Comfortable to the feet and ankles
- Best for wide feet
- Flexible and best suited for outdoor skating
- Ideal beginner to intermediate skate
Cons of Chaya skates
- Pricey
- They are mid-cut boots so there’s a tendency of falling backward
- Boots are quite stiff
Pros of Rio Skates
- Very affordable
- Great option for beginners on a budget
- Hybrid wheels suitable for outdoor and indoor skating
- Variety of appealing colors
Cons of Rio Skates
- Less durable
- Boots are made with synthetic material which may cause blisters
- Most models are not made for wide feet
- They come with fixed toe-stops
- You’ll need to upgrade your skates as you progress
How to Make Your Decision
Both Chaya and Rio skates are giants in their sphere, however, you’ll need to consider a few factors to choose the best fit for you. For example, I love Rio skates for narrow feet as it doesn’t pose much of a problem for them. However, if you have wider feet, you might want to stay off Rio skates to avoid scrapes or worse hurting your toes.
Another point to consider is durability. Rio skates (Link to Amazon) are relatively cheaper compared to Chaya skates. However, they are less durable than Chaya skates. And because Chaya skates pass (Amazon Link) the longevity test, I recommend you go for it if you’re looking to use your skates from the beginner level till you transition into the intermediate phase.
Comfort to the feet is another factor you need to consider. If you would be skating for a long period, Chaya would definitely be a better option but Rio is just perfect for an occasional skating exercise. In addition to comfort, Rio skates are a better option if you’re looking for budget-friendly skates.
Finally
Choosing between Chaya and Rio skates may be a tough choice to make as both present their good sides and down points. However, it’s important to do deep research and know what works best for you. You’ll also need to consider agility, flexibility, and roll speed. These factors are needed to help you make the right decision. That said, which are you choosing?
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