Buying Guides
Best Roller Skates for Figure Skating: Expert Guide for American Skaters in 2025
Figure skating isn’t just for the ice anymore. Across the U.S., skaters are turning to roller skates to express their artistry, improve their skills year-round, or simply enjoy elegant movement on wheels. Whether you’re training indoors, preparing for a competition, or exploring artistic routines for the first time, choosing the right roller skates for figure skating is the foundation for performance and safety.
At Jellybeans Skating Center—one of North Carolina’s premier destinations for recreational and competitive skating—we’ve helped thousands of skaters gear up, train, and perform on quad skates. In this 2025 guide, we share what really matters when selecting skates built for figure skating moves.
What Are Roller Skates for Figure Skating?
Figure skating roller skates are quad skates specifically designed to replicate the control, stability, and grace of traditional ice figure skates. Unlike standard recreational roller skates, these feature:
- High-cut boots for ankle support during spins and jumps
- Harder wheels (durometer 88A–98A) for better slide control indoors
- Precision toe stops for artistic tricks and balance
- Reinforced plates for jump landings
Why Use Roller Skates for Figure Skating?
🔁 Cross-training for Ice Skaters
Many U.S. skaters use artistic roller skating in the off-season to maintain muscle memory and stamina.
🏆 Competitive Artistic Roller Skating
Organizations like USA Roller Sports host competitions in freestyle, figures, and dance—all performed on quad skates.
🏠 Accessibility & Year-Round Practice
Ice rinks aren’t always available, especially in warmer U.S. states. Roller rinks like Jellybeans Skating Center offer a consistent, climate-controlled space for training.
Key Features to Look For in Roller Skates for Figure Skating
1. Boot Design
High-top leather boots provide stability and resemble ice skates. Brands like Riedell and EDEA offer stiffness ratings to match skill levels.
Pro Tip: Beginners benefit from semi-stiff boots (support index 40–60) for a balance of control and comfort.
2. Plate Construction
Aluminum or composite plates are preferred for jumpers due to durability. Lightweight builds reduce fatigue during long routines.
3. Wheel Durometer
Ideal range: 88A–94A for indoor use. This ensures grip for turns but enough slide for spins. Outdoor skaters may want softer wheels (~78A) but will compromise spin potential.
4. Toe Stops
Look for adjustable, figure-friendly rubber toe stops that allow fast transitions and artistic tricks.
Top Picks: Best Roller Skates for Figure Skating in 2025
| Brand & Model | Boot Type | Plate Material | Wheel Hardness | Ideal For | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riedell 220 Avanti | Leather | Aluminum | 92A | Intermediate Artistic | $450–600 |
| Sure-Grip Boardwalk Hybrid | Suede | Nylon | 85A (customizable) | Entry-Level Training | $250–320 |
| EDEA Classica + Roll-Line Plate | Microfiber | Aluminum | 90–97A | Competitive Artistic | $700–1,000 |
| Jackson Elite Viper | Vegan Microfiber | Fiberglass | 94A | Eco-conscious Skaters | $550–700 |
How to Choose the Right Skates (and Avoid Common Mistakes)
✅ Consider Your Skill Level
- Beginner: Soft boot with moderate ankle support
- Intermediate: Stiffer boot and aluminum plate for jumps
- Advanced: Customizable fit, precision bearings, responsive wheels
✅ Get the Right Fit
American feet often need wider toe boxes. Visit the Jellybeans Pro Shop for personalized fittings.
❌ Mistake to Avoid
Don’t choose skates just for style. Prioritize structure and performance to prevent injury and improve technique.
Real Advice from Jellybeans Coaches
“We’ve seen skaters improve dramatically just by upgrading to the right figure-style quad skates. Ankle support and wheel precision make all the difference for clean spins and safe landings.”
Explore artistic skating classes for all ages.
Customization & Skate Maintenance Tips
🎨 Customization at Jellybeans
Choose toe stop colors, wheel hardness, lace types, or engraved plates at the Pro Shop.
🧰 Maintenance Tips
- Rotate wheels weekly
- Tighten toe stops regularly
- Clean bearings monthly
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use regular roller skates for figure skating?
No. General-purpose skates lack ankle support, stiffness, and responsiveness required for figure routines.
Q2: How do I transition from ice to roller?
Work on edge control and body alignment. Skills are transferable with guided instruction from Jellybeans’ pros.
Q3: Is artistic roller skating safe indoors?
Yes—especially in facilities like Jellybeans Skating Center, where floors are designed for quad skating and monitored by staff.
Conclusion: Glide Into Your Artistic Journey
The right pair of roller skates for figure skating can transform your experience—from clumsy turns to graceful spins. Whether you’re aiming to compete or express yourself on wheels, having supportive gear and expert guidance matters.
Ready to get started? Visit Jellybeans Skating Center for fittings, lessons, or to join our artistic skating community.