Inline Hockey Skates

Understanding Roller Hockey Skates

Roller hockey skates, which are also referred to as inline hockey skates or street hockey skates, form the essential gear for anyone eager to play street hockey. These skates resemble ice hockey skates, albeit with wheels in place of blades and softer boots that provide increased torque and flexibility.

The wheels on roller hockey skates typically range from 76mm to 80mm in size, striking a balance between not too big and not too small. Medium-sized wheels facilitate better stopping power, faster acceleration, and improved manoeuvrability compared to larger options. These wheels are mostly soft to ensure maximum grip. However, for outdoor play, harder wheels are preferable for surfaces such as cement and asphalt.

Determining the Right Size for Roller Hockey Skates

When purchasing a new pair of street hockey skates, it is important to consult our size guides and measure your feet first. Sizing varies between brands, and fitting hockey skates is different from fitting shoes. Roller hockey skates should fit snugly to enhance power transfer and manoeuvrability. Skates that are too large may cause sore feet and blisters.

Selecting Roller Hockey Skates

Consider your playing style and level. Recreational inline hockey skates cater to new players, being both cost-effective and an excellent choice for beginners, young players, or those playing casually with friends. Entry-level street hockey skates often feature a flat setup with four 80mm wheels for increased stability.

Advanced players who spend time on the rink once or twice a week will likely opt for more specialised skates. These typically have lighter, stiffer boots and feature a different wheel setup deemed standard in the industry—two 76mm wheels in the front and two 80mm wheels at the back—offering optimal stopping power and control in tight turns.

Interested in learning more about street hockey equipment? Visit our Buying Hockey Equipment guide.