Roller skates have come a long way since their inception in the 1700s. They have become an easy, enjoyable form of recreation and a stylish fashion statement. But before you step onto the rink in your finest looks, you need to understand what to wear to roller skate.
To roller skate safely, you need to consider comfort and safety. So, let’s dive into the list of must-haves of roller skating attire.
Headgear
First and foremost, you must have proper protective headgear. A good helmet is a great investment if you want to feel safe and secure while you skate. It should fit snugly, be lightweight and breathable, and provide adequate protection against falls or impacts.
It is also important to consider visibility, so look for helmets that have reflective strips or bright colors. Some helmets come with face protection or chin straps, so these can be great additions as well.
Footwear
The most important part of your skating outfit is, of course, the shoes. The right pair of skates can make a world of difference in terms of balance, stability, and overall performance. Not only do skates provide protection and support for your feet, but they also allow you to maneuver more easily and perform tricks with greater precision.
Regular running sneakers are not ideal for roller skating since they do not provide the necessary support and flexibility you need. Remember that skate shoes are good for walking sometimes, but walking shoes are not necessarily good for skating. So, investing in a high-quality pair of skates is definitely worth it.
Clothing
Unlike other sports, such as tennis and hockey, roller skating does not require special roller skating outfits. But it doesn’t mean roller skaters can wear clothes of their own choice.
When you are going to roller skate, comfort should be your top priority. Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing that restricts your movement. Choose clothing that is light and breathable to keep you cool and comfortable. Also, choose clothes that are bright in color so they can be easily seen while you skate.
Accessories
Accessories are a crucial part of a roller skater’s gear. They add a touch of personal style to your outfit and contribute to your safety and comfort while skating. Skate accessories are designed to provide extra support and protection for your body, especially your wrists, elbows, and knees, which are more prone to injuries while skating.
Accessories like helmets, elbow pads, and mouth guards are a must-have to ensure that your head and teeth are secured while performing tricks or skating at high speed.
Headband
Some of you may also want to add a headband to your skating outfit. Headbands not only keep sweat out of your eyes, but they also provide an extra layer of protection for your head in case of falls or collisions. The impact of hitting your head on the ground can be dangerous and potentially lead to serious injuries.
Wearing a headband can help absorb some of that impact and potentially prevent or minimize injury. Nowadays, headbands are available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can choose the one that matches your skating outfit best.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a necessity for roller skating because of two main reasons. Firstly, they shield your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Secondly, they protect them from debris and wind. When you are cruising along under the sun, glare can make it tough to see.
With the right pair of sunglasses, you will have a clear, unobstructed vision, which is essential for staying safe on your skates. They can also help prevent eye fatigue, making your skating experience more enjoyable.
So, whether you are roller skating indoors or going for outdoor skating surfaces, you have to wear clothing suitable for a roller skater.
Read more: How To Turn Around On Roller Skates?
What Not To Wear To Roller Skate?
Many beginners don’t know what to wear when they first set out for roller skating. But it is important to note that certain clothing items and accessories can actually hinder your progress, and should be avoided.
Here is a list of 5 items that you should not wear when roller skating:
1. High Heels Or Pointy Shoes
High heels and pointy shoes are not ideal for roller skating because they can prevent you from getting the proper grip and balance on your skates. Wearing these types of shoes can also increase your risk of slipping, falling, and potentially injuring yourself. So, always wear roller skating shoes with roller skating safety gear; wear socks for added comfort.
2. Jeans Or Loose Clothing
It is often seen that newbies go out skating wearing pants or jeans and t-shirts or loose clothing. This type of clothing can be dangerous because it can get caught in the wheels of your skates and cause you to trip or fall. You have to stick to more form-fitting clothing that will not get caught in the wheels. So, don’t wear jeans in the roller rink now!
3. Bags
When you are skating, it is best to keep all bags off the rink. This is because carrying a bag can throw your balance off and also cause you to trip or fall. If you need to carry something, keep it with you or leave it in the locker. Doing this will also help you skate better as you will not be burdened with the extra weight.
4. Jewelry
Some people love jewelry such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. However, when you are going for a skate, it is best to leave all jewelry at home or in the locker. Wearing these items can potentially snag on your skates or cause you to trip.
5. Hoods And Scarves
Hoods are particularly hazardous when roller skating because they can interfere with your vision and prevent you from clearly seeing what is around you. Similarly, scarves can be dangerous as they could also get caught in the wheels of the skates. If you are feeling too chilly, wearing a thin jacket that can be easily taken off when needed is best.
Read more: How Long Does It Take To Learn Skating?
What To Wear To Roller Skate: Final Words
Roller skating is an amazing activity that can help you stay fit and active. However, skating safely might be a problem, especially for beginners, because they don’t know what to wear when roller skating.
Today, we shared what to wear and what not to wear when you are out for a skate. We hope this article was helpful in guiding you on your roller skating journey.
Let us know in the comments if you still have any questions left.
Goodbye & Keep Skating Like A Pro With SkatersDen!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of socks to wear with roller skates?
The best type of socks to wear with roller skates is a thin, lightweight pair. This pair will keep your feet comfortable and provide the best protection against blisters and abrasions. Avoid wearing thick or bulky socks, as these can make your feet hot and may cause discomfort while skating. Moisture-wicking socks are ideal, as they help your feet stay dry and blister-free.
Q: Should you wear pads when roller skating?
Yes, it is highly recommended to wear pads when roller skating. Pads provide extra protection against falls and collisions, which can help prevent serious injuries. Pads can include wrist guards, elbow pads, knee pads, and helmets to protect the head.
It is especially important for children to wear protective gear when they go roller skating to ensure their safety. Always check your pads before you hit the rink, and make sure they are properly adjusted for a secure, comfortable fit.
Q: What do you wear to roller skate when its cold?
When ice skating in cold weather, you can wear layers of clothing that can keep you warm and comfortable rather than your roller skating outfit.
Start with a thin base layer, such as a long-sleeve shirt and leggings. Then layer on items like a sweatshirt, fleece jacket, and windbreaker to keep you insulated. Lastly, add a cap or earmuffs to complete your look and keep you warm while skating.
Make sure to wear tight-fitting clothes that won’t get caught in the wheels of your skates.