How to buy roller skates

Unfortunately, it’s hard to find roller skates in Lethbridge. Some big box stores may carry them, but they are often “toy” skates containing plastic/cheap parts and pieces that may negatively affect your skating experience.

Another option is to find them at local thrift or second-hand shops. I’ve had some luck finding good, beginner skates at the local Value Village or Salvation Army stores. But again, you need to understand the parts and pieces so you know you’re getting a good value and skating experience.

See the video below which briefly talks about the different parts and pieces of vintage and used skates and what you can do to upgrade them to make them roll well.

Or, you can look at buying new! Read on for a list of Canadian roller skate providers and some suggestions of brands/models to look for.

Beginner skate recommendations

TLDR: In most cases, the higher the cost, the better quality of boot and skate components. A less expensive skate may get you rolling, but your skates may be unresponsive, uncomfortable or uneasy, resulting them sitting in the back of the closet, never to be used again. Decide whether you want heeled or no-heeled skates and then look for the highest-quality skate you can afford! Wheels are another $50 to $100 investment, so try and buy a skate that has a wheel included for what you will be skating (outdoor or indoor).

The following lists are for roller skates that are readily available in Canada and are considered entry-level. This list does not include all available skates in Canada, but provides a starting point for shopping. This list is based on personal experience, product information and published testimonials from other skaters. Pricing is estimated, based on Alberta roller skate retailer prices. Skates under $300 are included on this list.

These roller skate prices, models and availability were last updated Feb. 18, 2024

Heeled skates

Heeled skates are similar to traditional ice figure skates. Advantages may include better ankle support and more stability due to the weight in your foot naturally being pushed to the ball of your foot. Disadvantages may include limited mobility, depending on the material your boot is made from.

Rio, Riedell, Moxi, Sure Grip, Jackson are included on this list. You may also want to look at Chaya, Crazy, Candi Girl and Moonlight skate brands.

Impala
New entry: $99-$150

Rio Roller Skates
($100-$150 – 2020)
No price change

Moxi Rainbow Rider
($125-$200 – 2020)
New price: $119-$150

Riedell Wave
($100-$150 – 2020)
New price: $129-$155

Moxi Jungle
($200-$250 – 2020)
New price: $135-$150

Moxi Beach Bunny
($125-$200 – 2020)
New price: $135-$210

Sure Grip Stardust
($250-$300 – 2020)
New price: $165-$200

Riedell Orbit
New entry: $149-$219

Sure Grip Fame
New entry: $160-$228

Sure Grip Boardwalk
($250-$300 – 2020)
New price: $219-$325

Moxi Panther
($200-$250 – 2020)
New price: $229-$249

Riedell 111 (Angel skate set)
($150-$175 – 2020)
New price: $235-$255

Jackson Vista
($250-$300 – 2020)
New price: $275-$350

Sure Grip Urban Roller
($200-$250 – 2020)
New price: $280

Riedell 120
($250-$300 – 2020)
New price: $299-$350

Non-heel skates

Non or low-heeled skates are common in speed sports like roller derby, but are great for recreation too! Advantages include more ankle flexibility, which allow you to go faster. Some skaters who are typically not comfortable in heeled shoes, also prefer this model. Disadvantages may include less ankle and balance stability, due to the flat boot and no heel.

Riedell, Sure Grip, Chaya, Crazy and Vanilla are included on this list. You may also want to look at the Bont skate brand.

Riedell Dart
($120-$170 – 2020)
New price: $179-$189

Crazy Zoom
New entry: $179-$190

Riedell R3
($150-$200 – 2020)
New price: $229-$249

Sure Grip GT-50 Rock
New entry: $219-$249

Chaya Voyager
($150-$200 – 2020)
New price: $245

Vanilla VNLA Jam skate
($200-$250 – 2020)
New price: $255

Sure Grip Rebel
($250-$300 – 2020)
New price: $325-$329

Canadian skate retailers

Contact or visit the following suppliers to inquire about roller skates. *When possible support your locally owned/small retailer businesses. They will love you for it and will continue to bring in products the skaters need.

Alberta (visit in person or online):

Nerd Roller Skates – Calgary
Bad Girlfriend Skates – Edmonton area
Toe Stop Derby Shop – Edmonton area

Other Canadian Retailers:

Rollergirl.ca – Vancouver, BC
Rollerskatin.ca – Woodstock, ON
Retrorollers.ca – London, ON
Lowlifemtl.com – Montreal, QC
Coffinskate.com – Halifax, NS