If you love to roller skate, perhaps you do it regularly at the watch of your toddlers. Perhaps there is a chance that your toddler may want to emulate you and be a part of the fun that comes with roller skating. If your toddler has developed a liking for roller skating, it is essential to ensure that you get them the proper equipment that offers the safest opportunities to partake in the activity.
Besides taking care of their safety, you also need to ensure that they feel comfortable while ensuring a smooth ride. With the proper roller skates and skating safety equipment, this activity will make a great hobby for your toddler. Besides having a great hobby, roller skating will also help your toddler health-wise.
Health Benefits of Skating
Roller skating is undoubtedly a fun activity that serves as a hobby and, at the same time, an activity that is beneficial for the health of both your toddler and yourself. No matter the age, roller skating is perfect for individuals who want to stay healthy and active. You will improve your balance, strength and endurance, and agility while having fun. Medical research reveals that skating ranks top among recommended physical fitness activities.
Therefore, having your toddler roller skate at a young age goes a long way in making their growth healthy. Roller skating comes with the below health benefits:
- Building muscular strength and endurance
- Helps in weight control
- Muscle definition
- Enhances proper digestion
- It is a catalyst for good sleep
Toddler Skate Sizes: Adjustable versus Non-adjustable
Finding proper toddler roller skates can be a daunting experience, especially for toddlers under 4. Most roller skates for toddlers start at size 1, but many high-end skates only start at size 4. This, therefore, implies that toddlers under 4 cannot get skates made by top name skate brands.
Most toddlers will need skates in the juvenile size. In roller skating, this is expressed using a number followed by the letter “j.” The majority of toddlers wear somewhere between 6j to13j. Upwards of 13j, the next number would be size 1 – the normal child/adult sizes.
The sizing for toddlers is complicated since their feet grow hugely at an early age. Within the early years, toddlers’ feet can grow as much as half an inch or even more each year. For this reason, most parents prefer an adjustable roller skate for their little ones.
Going for non-adjustable roller skates will obviously mean that you will buy roller skates regularly. So, if you are fine with chucking out more bucks every other time your toddler’s feet grow, then a pair of non-adjustable roller skates would be okay with you.
Generally, the non-adjustable roller skates are better in terms of quality, but the adjustable roller skates will last you with your toddler’s rapid growth, especially at a tender age.
The Top 7 Roller Skates for Toddlers
Selecting the best roller skates for your toddler is a challenging task. This is because the market is flooded with many options; each roller skate has its own unique design, style, and features. This may get you somehow confused if you are not very careful.
Below is a review of the seven best roller skates for toddlers out there to help you narrow down your options and settle for a pair of skates that will meet your toddler’s needs.
- Chicago Classic Roller Skates
- Playwheels Trolls Roller Skates with Knee Pads, Junior Size 6-12
- Roller Derby Fun Roll
- PlayWheels Adjustable Skates with Knee Pads
- Pacer Charger Quad Roller Skate
- Sure-Grip White Fame Roller Skate
- Lynx Apex Roller Skates
1. Chicago Classic Roller Skates
Chicago is a popular skate brand. They have been in the industry for more than 100 years. This perhaps explains why the Chicago Classic skate (Amazon link) is many parents’ favorite. They relive the memories of the amazing quad-style rink skate.
With the showy vinyl boot and easy-to-use lacing system, these skates will provide your toddler with the opportunity to roller skate whenever and wherever they feel like doing so. The adjustable trucks offer a comfortable fit.
Features:
- 3/4 athletic style boot with a padded ankle collar
- Vinyl top
- 60mm composite high-impact oversized wheels
- Oversized PVC spoke core
- 608Z semi-precision bearings
- Double adjustable chassis and truck
- Lace and Velcro Power Strap closures
Pros:
- Superb comfort
- Safe and secure
- Adjusts fit with time
- Lightweight
- Comes with a toe stop
- High top boot – added ankle support
Cons:
- Doesn’t have padding
- Low-quality parts
2. Playwheels Trolls Roller Skates with Knee Pads, Junior Size 6-12
This roller skate and knee pad set come with everything that every Troll believer needs to get skating (Amazon link). These skates are most suitable for beginner skating toddlers. The set comes with adjustable skates and long-lasting protective knee pads for top-level safety.
These skates come with simple-to-use toe brakes, which ease stopping and slowing. They feature a robust plastic frame and buckles that withstand heavy outdoor use. The knee pads contained in the set utilize simple hook and loop fasteners for a perfect fit. With the stylish Troll’s theme, your toddler will be proud to own this pair of skates and to wear and show off to their peers.
Features:
- High impact polymer frame and strap buckles
- Toe brakes included on both skates.
- Impact-resistant PVC knee caps
- Thumbscrews that allow for 2 inches of adjustment
Pros:
- Durable
- Double construction
- Safe and easy slowing and stopping
- Extra protection
- Adjustable
Cons:
- Thin knee pads
- Straps fray and fall apart easily
- Not true to size
3. Roller Derby Fun Roll
The Roller Derby Fun Roll (View on Amazon) for boys and girls is made for the little skaters – 2 to 3-year-old toddlers interested in getting out on the floor. These skates come in 2 sizes: a small one that begins at size 7j to 11j and a medium that begins from 11j to size 2.
The downside of these skates is that most components are made of plastic, which breaks easily. Therefore, they are recommended for tiny toddlers who can’t do much about skating. They are cheap, though.
Features:
- Comfy padded liner
- Locking Cam-Lever buckles
- Reinforced polymer frame with non-marking brakes
- G-Force 608ZB carbon bearings
- Urethane wheels
Pros:
- Affordable
- Built for better balance
- Low center of gravity
- Supportive boot
- Safe and easy to use
- Extra-cushy padded liner
- Good for toddlers as young as 2 years old
Cons:
- Made of plastic which breaks easily
4. PlayWheels Adjustable Skates with Knee Pads
This product from PlayWheels Store (Available on Amazon) is a budget-friendly option for the smallest toddlers who are just getting started skating. Every component of these skates, including the wheels, are made of plastic. Once your toddler grows slightly, you can switch to a better non-adjustable skate with quality parts.
Features:
- Convenient thumb screws that allow for 2-inch adjustment
- Toe brakes are included.
- Impact-resistant PVC knee caps
Pros:
- Easy slowing and stopping
- Durable
- Superb protection
- Easy to adjust
- Cheap
Cons:
- Plastic skates break easily.
5. Pacer Charger Quad Roller Skate
These skates (View on Amazon) come in size 10j to size 4; they are a great choice for tiny feet. They come with a well-padded boot, fundamental 608 bearings, and polyurethane wheels.
Features:
- Deluxe comfort padded boots with reinforced ankle support
- Pacer reinforced polymer plate
- Double action adjustable trucks
- Pacer polyurethane wheels
- 608ZB G-force sealed bearings
- Quick-drying materials
- Classic laces and power strap closure
- Fixed toe stops
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Sturdy
- Top-quality boot
- Designed for a long-lasting roll
- The seal keeps dirt out
- Increased stability
- Keep feet dry
- Classic laces provide a customized fit
- Easy to maintain
- Perfect for indoor and outdoor use
Cons:
- Low top boots – not ideal for beginners
6. Sure-Grip White Fame Roller Skate
Sure-Grip as a brand (Link to Amazon) has been around for more than 80 years, and they know how to make amazing skates.
The Sure-Grip skates are among the best beginner toddler skates out there today. They come in a range of sizes that fit toddlers of various feet sizes. These skates feature an extra comfortable boot with extra padding and eyelets that make them tight around the ankle. These skates also feature ABE-5 rated bearings, 57mm 95A wheels, and a nylon plate.
The Sure-Grip Fame skate is perfect for roller rink skating.
Features:
- Fantastic Fame boot
- Robust nylon plate
- 57mm 95A wheels
- Carrera toe stop
- ABEC-5 bearings
Pros:
- Perfect fit
- Sturdy
- Comes with a toe stop
Cons:
- Indoor use only
7. Lynx Apex Roller Skates
The Lynx Apex Roller Skates (Amazon Link) are a budget-friendly choice. They come with a low top boot hence suitable for intermediate to expert level toddlers. The boot is padded and can be laced up to its top. These skates also come with a Velcro strap for tightening. The skates feature ABEC- rated bearings and 54mm x 32mm urethane wheels.
Features:
- Genuine ABEC-1 bearings
- Padded boot
- Velcro power straps
Pros:
- Top-quality wheels
- Attractive colors
- Quality components
- Good value for money
- Sleek look and feel
Cons:
- Low top boots- not suitable for novice toddler skaters
Buyer Guide: Identifying the Best Roller Skates for Toddlers
When shopping around for a pair of skates for your toddler, it is essential to look out for the following factors:
Shoe body
The roller skates’ body is significant as it needs to take on the force and the impacts that come with skating. It is advisable to select shoes made using synthetic materials such as plastic. You can hold the roller skates to feel the thickness and sturdiness.
Inner Lining
This part will come in direct contact with the toddler’s feet; hence it is a key element during skate selection. You should select roller skates with a smooth and thick booth, which is breathable and offers a perfect fit with the feet.
Frame
The frame is another essential element because it holds the wheels, without which, the skates cannot roll. The frames on today’s skates are made of thick and robust alloy material. It would be best if you avoided plastic frames since they break easily.
Wheels
The best wheels are wheels made using rubber, which offer stability and high elasticity and adhesion when rolling.
Bearings
When it comes to bearings, it is recommended that you select detachable bearings that have good rotation speeds and those that are easy to clean.
Ease of assembly
Nobody wants to spend extra effort, money, or time when removing and repairing roller skates.
Tips to Boost your Toddler’s Roller-Skating Experience
As a grandparent, parent, or adult trying to get a toddler accustomed to roller skating, here are a few tips to consider:
- Buy your toddler their own pair of roller skates.
- Make it fun. If your toddler does not find roller skating a fun activity, then they will lose interest and find something better to partake in.
- For a start, skate your toddler inside the house, on a carpet before taking them to roll on hard floors.
- Skate with your toddler – do not have them do it on their own.
- Teach your toddler how to fall occasionally and get back up to their feet
- Train them how to stop properly
- Teach them how to move forward on skates
- If they are struggling to stay on their feet, you can lock down their skate wheels or gently move the carpet.
- Patience is key. Remember, learning a new thing takes time; therefore, be patient with your toddler as you teach them how to skate. Whenever there is a need, go back to the initial steps.
- Always keep in mind that safety is key; to help prevent injuries to your little one, get them the necessary skating safety equipment – helmet, knee and elbow pads, wrist guards, etc.
The Bottom Line
You are a parent, grandparent, or an older kid in a family that comprises a toddler who has shown interest in roller skating, and that is why you are looking for the best roller skates for toddlers.
This article covers some of the top roller skates for toddlers available in the market as well as a guide to choosing the best pair of skates to make your life a bit easier when buying a new pair of roller skates for your toddler. Get your toddler out roller skating either with you or with their friends.
The above roller skates have unique designs and are ideal for toddlers of various ages. However, they are all fun and exciting to wear. You will not have any regrets if you select a pair or two from the above list. So why not grab one and have your toddler enjoying their childhood?
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