So summer is in full swing, and there’s no doubt the kids are clamoring to get outside and have fun. Since normal activities are indefinitely on hold, you may be looking for some great alternatives. After examining tons of data (just kidding, we went shopping), we’ve come up with an awesome list of the best roller skates for kids, a few kids’ skateboards, and even some of the best rollerblades on the market. Keep scrolling for some “wheel good” fun.
Best Roller Skates for Beginners
Chicago Kids Adjustable Quads
Chicago Kids Adjustable Quads are one of the best roller skates for kids, and they were created specifically for kids who are just learning how to skate; exceptional traction and stability were at the forefront of the design. Parents can adjust the size of these skates (up to four full sizes), so they grow with your kids, and siblings are already prepared. Two ratchet buckles offer your little one a secure fit, and the high-top construction and the padded collar adds much-needed support. The breathable nylon mesh of the inner boot keeps things comfy, and built-in toe breaks will reliably stop the skates when engaged.
For kids ages 3-6
Available on Amazon, $39.99.
Best Roller Skates for Intermediate Skaters
Chicago Boys Rink Roller Skate
Ideal for older kids, the Chicago Boys Rink Roller Skates are designed for gliding, and precision bearing will keep your child rolling smooth and rolling fast. The eyelet lacing system allows kids to adjust the fit as they grow, and the high top design provides ample support. What’s more, the Chicago Boys Rink skates are suitable for both indoors and out, and they won’t damage your floors if your child decides to skate indoors when the mood strikes.
For kids ages 6-10
Available at Amazon, $46.78.
Best Roller Skates for Confident Skaters
Roller Derby Boys Blazer Lighted Wheel Roller Skate
For more confident skaters, try the Roller Derby Boys Blazer. The sporty, athletic design and classic laces give it a big kid feel that experienced skaters will enjoy while the light-up wheels bring out the kid in them. The comfort padding and quick-dry lining both make for a comfy ride and cast urethane wheels are suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
For kids ages 6-10
Available at Amazon, $49.99.
Best Rollerblades for Beginners
Mongoose Inline Girls Skates
With skinny wheels that are easy to maneuver, the Mongoose Inline Skates offer stability and balance, so they’re great for your little beginner. The sock liner provides added support, and the locking buckle ensures a secure fit. The Mongoose Inline Skates are adjustable (up to four sizes) with the touch of a button, and the frame is durable enough to grow with your child. If your beginner needs to practice indoors to build her confidence, the cast urethane wheels won’t damage your floors, so there’s no need to worry.
For kids ages 7-9
Available at Amazon, $57.93.
Light-Up 2 PM Sports Vinal Inline Skates
These inline skates by 2 PM Sports are great for beginners. Plus, no list of “go fast” for kids is complete without something that lights up, right? The lights in the wheels of these inline skates work on a self-generating power system, so there’s no batteries or external power source needed. With cam lever buckles, velcro straps, and laces, the 2 PM Sports Vinal Inline Skates are designed with beginners in mind. They are easy to get into and out of quickly, and it’s the buckles so easy that little ones should be able to do it by themselves.
For kids ages 4- 12
Available at Amazon, $72.99.
Best Rollerblades for Intermediate Skaters
K2 Skate Youth Raider Pro Inline Skates
Perfect for intermediate skaters, the K2 Skate Youth Raider Pro Inline Skates offers a smooth ride and some great shock absorption. What's more, a durable frame that sits low to the ground gives your young skater a bit more balance. These skates are adjustable (up to five sizes), and traditional laces paired with ratchet buckles and velcro snaps ensure a secure fit.
For kids ages 7-10
Available at Amazon, $84.95.
Best Rollerblades For Skilled Skaters
Bladerunner by Rollerblade Phoenix Girls Adjustable Fitness Inline Skate
For skilled skaters, the Rollerblade Bladerunner Phoenix offers up a smooth ride and a low center of gravity for better stability, balance, and control. The padded boot liner ensures a comfy ride, and the laces, ratchet, and velcro straps offer a secure fit. The Mongoose Inline Skates are adjustable up to four sizes, and that kind of longevity only adds to the value.
For kids ages 10 and up
Available at Amazon, $51.69.
Best Skateboard for Beginners
Rude Boyz 17 Inch Mini Wooden Cruiser Graphic Beginner Kids Skateboard
With a 17” skateboard deck, the Rude Boyz Mini Wooden Cruiser is perfectly sized for beginners. The max weight capacity is 121 pounds, and the shorter deck offers first-time users plenty of control and balance. Although this skateboard is made of real wood, it’s still lightweight, and the topside has all-over grip tape for a safer ride. Parents can adjust the wheels for speed as kids become more confident, and there’s no need to hassle with assembly because this skateboard is ready to rock ‘n’ roll (well maybe just roll) right out of the box. To make it even more appealing, this skateboard comes in fun designs that the little ones will love including, triceratops dinosaurs and robots.
For kids ages 3-5
Available at Amazon, $25.
Best Kids Skateboard Overall
Rimable Complete 22" Skateboard
Rimable’s Complete Skateboard nabs the spot for the best overall skateboard. With a 22-inch deck and high-speed bearings, this kid's skateboard is a ton of fun. Coming in at just four pounds, the Rimable skateboard is easy enough to tote around, and while the wheels might look a bit large, they do offer ample stability. What’s interesting about this board is that it seems to work well for both beginners and pros. Also notable, the weight limit is 198 pounds, so if you’re concerned about the price, that may speak to its longevity.
For kids ages 5-9
Available at Amazon, $49.88.
Best Board for Skateboard Wizards
Minority 32-inch Skateboard
Designed with older kids in mind, the Minority Skateboard has a 32-inch deck and holds a maximum weight of 222 pounds. This skateboard was subjected to (and passed) a maneuverability test on streets, ramps and pools, and the medium concave kicks the fun factor up a notch. For parents, the medium concave improves steering for kids (eh-hem) and makes the board is easier to flip for awesome tricks. What’s more, Minority Skateboard has twelve designs to choose from that feature cool graphics, ranging from trendy to vintage.
For kids ages 8 & up
Available at Amazon, $89.89.
—Sharon Brandwein
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Images courtesy Amazon
Featured image: Alexander Belyaev via Pixabay
Editor’s note: At the time of publication, all items were available for purchase.