How Does Roller Skate Sizing Work?

 

Skating is a great activity for people of all ages and physical fitness levels. It not only is a fun time, but it's also a great way to exercise and have fun outdoors. The first step in moving forward with your skating journey is getting skates. You may wonder, how does roller skate sizing work? Below you will find some helpful tips to ensure you get the right size skates.

How Does Roller Skate Sizing Work?

If you are starting your roller skating journey, you may wonder how roller skate shoe sizing works. It makes sense if you wonder what your roller skate size is. While it may seem as simple as choosing your shoe size, there are some unique differences in roller skate sizing. Not only do sizes differ between brands, but also between different types of skates. Most skates are made using men's sizing, even if they are skates that look like they are for women. If you purchase skates in person, you can likely try on a few different ones to make sure you get the right size. However, if you order online as many people do, you'll need to consider a few factors to determine the size that is right for you.

Roller Skate Sizing: Factors to Consider

Roller skate sizing isn't drastically different from shoe sizes. However, there are some unique differences that should be taken into consideration. Consider the following factors when choosing your roller skate size.

Measure Your Feet: 

Because there isn't a specific formula to find your skate size, you'll need to measure your feet. Stand on a piece of paper and trace around your feet (with socks on). Once you are done tracing, measure the length and width of the tracing of your feet. If you have a foot measuring too, you can also use that. It's most helpful to measure your feet at the end of the day as that is when they are their largest. 

Use The Sizing Chart: 

The vast majority of roller skate brands have a sizing chart. It is important to use the specific brand's sizing chart to determine which size is right for you. Some brands will also have customer feedback (true to size, runs large, runs small) on the sizing chart which can be helpful. Consider the feedback when purchasing roller skates and inline skates for men and women to be sure you get the right size.

Consider Skating Activities: 

The type of skating activity you plan on doing can be a factor in the skate size. For example, if you'll be doing aggressive skating or roller derby, you may want a tighter fit than if you'll be doing recreational skating. However, if you want to do some leisure skating with adjustable inline skates you may not need as tight of a fit.

Try Them Out: 

Once you receive your skates, try them on with socks. Be sure they fit properly and account for the need to break them in if they are snug. Skates that are too tight will likely not expand enough, but a snug fit is fine as they will gradually stretch some. Your toes shouldn't hit the front and your heels should not be directly up against the back of the skate.  

Break Them In: 

New skates require some breaking in. This includes wearing them around the house for short periods or using a shoe stretcher to get them to comfortably fit. Blisters and irritation can impact your skating experience, so break them in well before you start skating. If your skates are properly broken in, you should not struggle with blisters or other foot sores.