Undoubtedly, skating is liked by people all over the globe. People love to enjoy this game in their free time and get entertained by performing different tricks using these instruments. But some people are confused between roller skates and skateboarding.
Are you one of those? Do you want to know which is better roller skates or skateboard? You have landed on the right page, as this blog has been written to give an answer to this question. Let’s have a look at this guide comparing both instruments based on 5 different factors.
5 Comparing Factors For Roller Skates & Skateboard
To let every reader knows why roller skates are better than skateboards, we have compared them based on 5 factors. Here are those factors with the explanation of both equipment.
1. Design
When it comes to comparing two pieces of equipment, the most important factor is to consider their designs. We have done the same thing for roller skates and skateboards. By reading this, you will get much clarification for which is better roller skates or skateboard.
In terms of roller skates, the wheels are directly attached to the shoe sole that, in turn, is connected to the feet. Also, the whole feet are covered by shoes with which the wheels are connected.
As a result, the rider will be able to manage the skates properly without much effort. Even if you are a beginner, you can easily handle your skates and keep enjoying your ride.
On the flip side, the wheels of the skateboard are neither connected to shoes nor to the board. You can see a clear difference between the board and wheels that have been connected with it using an axle.
This position of wheels makes it hard for the rider to enjoy a ride by handling the board. That’s why, it is considered difficult to manage a skateboard for a beginner. But you can make your skateboard similar to a roller skate by choosing a one-wheel skateboard.
No doubt, you can use the skateboard wheels for your roller skates. But you must have to consider various factors for the better adjustment of the wheels to your sports equipment.
2. Braking System
No doubt, roller skates, and skateboards don’t have any built-in braking system. Being a rider, you should have to learn the techniques to stop them whenever you want during your ride.
When compared based on the braking techniques, roller skates are considered easy to manage. All types of skates can be stopped using the toe-stop technique. It means that you have to apply pressure using your toe to stop your skates.
This method is pretty simple and easy to follow because you don’t have to learn anything else. On the other side, skateboards are difficult to stop as you have to learn particular methods to stop them.
You can’t use a simple trick like you do with roller skates or any other type of skate. It leaves the rider in a threatening situation, particularly if the rider is new to this sport. While looking to be an expert in skateboarding, it is recommended to learn the ways to stop a skateboard before your ride.
3. Riding Method/Expertise
When it comes to learning to be an expert in roller skates or skateboarding, the latter sport needs more attention. The learning method for skateboarding is difficult and needs proper attention to learn the tricks.
In simple words, you will find it challenging to perform tricks and enjoy your ride on your skateboard. The reason is difficult methods to stop this equipment or manage it properly.
On the other side, you can ride roller skates easily on any road, even if you are a beginner. You can easily handle your skates and keep them in your control all the time. Additionally, you will not need a professional instructor to do so because you only have to get full control over your feet movement.
The simplest example to estimate the difference between them is you can ride roller skates in the rain easily. But you can’t ride a skateboard during rain with ease as you can slip and get hurt. So, you should have to be an expert in the sport for going on this adventure.
Read more: Beginner Roller Skating Tips.
4. Safety
To learn which is better roller skates or skateboard, you should compare them based on safety measures. Roller skates are considered safer than skateboarding because of controlling impacts, easy-to-manage methods, and other similar reasons.
While riding a skateboard, you will be exposed to more dangerous impacts or accidents. It means that you can experience dangerous outcomes while going on a ride using your skateboard.
On the other side, roller skating is better and safer because it may be possible you can avoid accidents easily. In simple words, you can apply brakes or manage your ride easily because of its simple riding method.
Read more: What To Wear To Roller Skate?
5. Speed
Are you an adventure lover? Do you love to have a fast ride? You must ride a roller skate instead of skateboarding. It is because you can ride this equipment as fast as you can.
As per the rider’s experience, you can easily go 12-15 mph on your roller skate while you can’t ride the skateboard at more than 10 mph. Along with this, you can also learn the ways to ride a roller skate faster.
Which Is Better Roller Skates Or Skateboard?
Overall, roller skate is better than skateboarding because of its advantages for the riders. Whether you are comparing them based on the method to ride or the safety of the rider, you will find roller skating better.
Undoubtedly, people like skateboarding over roller skating because of various reasons. But the comparison has shown that roller skate is better, especially for beginners. The reason is the rider doesn’t have to be an expert in riding or handling roller skates.
On the other side, a skateboard is a sports equipment that needs high skills to manage the board and ride on the surface. A minor mistake can hurt the riders or let them to an unexpected accident.
Due to this, roller skates are labeled as better sports equipment as compared to skateboards. If you are looking for an in-depth comparison, you should check the following sections where we have done this.
Read more: Roller Skates vs Roller Blades.
Which Is Better Roller Skates Or Skateboard: Final Words
So, it was the guide to learning which is better roller skates or skateboard. You may have a clear idea of which equipment is better for you to ride as per your expertise.
It is time for you to decide which sport you should enjoy in your free time. Take precautionary measures to avoid any unexpected conditions while riding any equipment.
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: Which is more popular: roller skates or skateboards?
Skateboards are generally more popular than roller skates, particularly in the realm of extreme sports and street culture. Skateboarding has gained significant mainstream popularity over the years, with a larger global community and industry presence compared to roller skating.
Q: Which is safer for beginners: roller skates or skateboards?
Roller skates are safer for beginners compared to skateboards. Roller skates provide a more balanced platform, allowing beginners to have better control and balance. The design of roller skates, with four wheels in a two-by-two configuration, offers greater stability and reduces the risk of falls, making them a safer option for newcomers.
On the other hand, skateboards require more balance and skill to maintain stability, making them potentially more challenging and riskier for beginners.
Q: Are roller skates or skateboards more suitable for tricks?
Skateboards take the crown when it comes to tricks and stunts! With their compact size, maneuverability, and specialized designs, skateboards are the go-to choice for riders seeking to unleash their inner daredevil. The flat deck and grippy wheels of a skateboard provide an ideal platform for executing jaw-dropping flips, grinds, and ollies.
While roller skates can certainly handle some tricks, the versatility and wider range of trick possibilities make skateboards the preferred choice for those craving an adrenaline-fueled spectacle.