One of the first things you need to learn when starting out with rollerblades is how to wear them. Putting on rollerblades properly ensures that you can skate smoothly and safely.
In this short guide, we will show you how to put on inline skates step-by-step. Moreover, we will provide tips on how to make them more comfortable. Read until the end for a solid grasp!
Page Contents
How to Wear Rollerblades
Step 1 – Sit Down & Start Unfastening The Buckles, Straps, Laces
To start, sit down so that both of your feet can comfortably rest on the ground. Unlike regular shoes, you cannot put them on while standing. Open the buckles and straps and untie the laces to get access to the tongue of the rollerblades.
Step 2 – Pull The Tongue Out To Make Room & Place Your Foot In
Pull the skate’s tongue out towards the front, so there is room for you to slide your foot in. Slip the tip of your foot in first, then push the rest of your foot in.
Make sure to kick your heel back for a snug position. Once your foot is placed inside, readjust the tongue. It should be properly centered and aligned.
Step 3 – Tie The Laces
After that, tie the laces. It must be tight but not too tight: strike a balance by checking that your foot feels comfortable but cannot slide back and forth inside. Also, note that your toes should not be cramped. To test, try wiggling them around.
Remember: your feet will swell slightly during your activity. Therefore, it’s not a good idea to make the skates tight-fitting.
Step 4 – Fasten The Straps & Buckles
Secure the straps and buckles. It is best to work from the bottom to the top. You should apply the same tight but not too tight principle. With a proper fit, you will not be able to slide two fingers or more in while you are seated.
Step 5 – Check The Fit & Go For A “Test Drive”
Repeat all the steps for your other roller skate. Then, to wrap up everything, check that every part is well-fastened. Stand up slowly while wearing the skates to see if they can adequately hold your feet. Finally, skate around. Do not speed just yet. Observe how the skates and your feet feel. Make sure you check the edges too.
Remember that none of the buckles, straps, and laces should come loose as you test-skate. If they do, you are doing something wrong. Sit down to restart the process if necessary. Do not just dismiss it and move on. Imagine rolling down a ramp and the roller skates flying off. You can get seriously injured!
How to Make Inline Skates More Comfortable?
Here are some simple ways you can make your rollerblades more comfortable:
- Lace your skates with two sets to reduce toe numbing
- Lace the middle part of the skates vertically to reduce arch discomfort
- Use waxed laces to secure the skates’ tongues, which can slip can cause discomfort
Other Tips for Comfortable Rollerblading
Tip #1 – Warm Up Before Rollerblading
Warming up before inline skating makes sure your muscles are actually ready for the task. As a result, they will not get hurt easily. You can do some light jogging and simple stretches to warm up.
Tip #2 – Break Up Long Sessions
We suggest keeping sessions under 30 minutes. Also, be sure to fill up on water during breaks and do some stretching before going back to roller skating after a break.
Tip #3 – Maintain Proper Rollerblading Form
Proper forms allow you to stay balanced and perform various inline skating moves properly. If you are a beginner, spend enough time perfecting your posture first.
Tip #4 – Cool Down After Rollerblading
You should conclude your session with a cool-down. Do some basic stretches like the hamstring stretch, calf stretch, and quadriceps stretch. Cooling down will also help you minimize injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which rollerblade goes on which foot?
In this regard, you wear rollerblades exactly the same way as regular shoes. The left skate goes on your left foot, and the right side goes on your right foot.
How to lace up rollerblades?
The most common way to lace up rollerblades is using the traditional criss-cross method. Simply slide the lace through the right and left eyelets, starting from the first pair at the bottom. Go from right to left, and hold the aglet to do this easily.
Conclusion
Now, you know how to put on inline skates. The next time you go rollerblading, you just need to apply the exact steps you have read today. Remember to warm up, take breaks, and cool down after your sessions to keep your feet comfortable!
If you have any other questions about putting on rollerblades and how to use them, reach out to us in the comments down below!
Harrison is a skating enthusiast who picked up the sport during her student exchange years in Canada. She has been a skating coach for children and teens for 3 years and now holds classes as a freelancer. Harrison entwines her experience leading skating classes in the content published on Cora to help readers fall in love with skating, just like she did.
