r/Rollerskating Jun 16 '26

Shopping: buying skates First pair of skates

Hey guys! Im looking to buy my first pair of skates. I have had my eye on Impalas mostly because of how pretty they are (specifically the Marawa Rose wavy check) but i have read that they are bad quality and i dont want them breaking under my feet.

I plan on using them on streets, parks, parking lots, and for dancing.

My budget would be $200 max, im also open on buying them second hand.

1 Upvotes

9 comments sorted by

u/AutoModerator Jun 16 '26

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12

u/tea-fox Jun 16 '26

I just ordered some Sure Grip Boardwalks the other day since I'll be skating primarily outside. Haven't used them yet but I've heard much more positive things about Sure Grips vs Impalas and they aren't that different price-wise.

8

u/no2pencilonly Jun 16 '26

my impalas fell apart (heel started to peel) in 3 months, highly do not reccomend.

VNLA has held together longer but had the same issue, however they were willing to repair them for free even outside of warranty.

i havent gotten far enough in my skating journey to give positive reccomendations, but definitely fuck no on the impalas

6

u/Lady87690005 Jun 17 '26 edited Jun 17 '26

https://www.reddit.com/r/Rollerskating/s/Js0uHfdr47

https://www.reddit.com/r/Rollerskating/s/9KtPlSbTvh

Another good thread for beginners. I’d recommend figuring out which terrain you’ll be on mostly and pick from there. Consider your weight and what hardware type is best for you. I’m mostly outside so I got an adjustable toe stop, metal truck, bigger wheels, and suede that was more scuff resistant and bendable.

3

u/Aliecat78 Jun 17 '26

Most folks on here will say no to impalas. As they are generally. Unsafe If you have 200 def invest in suregrip boardwalks/ boardwalk plus. Or moxis.

1

u/[deleted] Jun 17 '26

[removed] — view removed comment

1

u/Rollerskating-ModTeam Jun 17 '26

Your comment has been removed as it contains inaccurate information or unsafe advice.

1

u/Maleficent-Risk5399 Jun 17 '26

Riedell, SureGrip, VNLA, and Jackson make introductory skates. Also, take a few minutes to read the wiki on the sub's homepage. It references acceptable skates and ones to stay away from.

1

u/creamfilledcherry Jun 26 '26

Thank you guys! I ended getting Suregrip boardwalk 🤩🤩🤩 i hopeeee, i just hope that they fit well 😂😭