What Is the Difference Between Roller Skates & Quad Skates?

The terminology associated with the sport of roller skating can be confusing, as the term roller skates is used to apply to all kinds of skates. Therefore, the differences between quad skates and roller skates depends on the context in which they are being discussed.

  1. Identification

    • The term roller skates encompasses all kinds of skates, while quad skates are a very specific type of skate. Quad skates have two pairs of two wheels parallel to each other. However, while quads can also be called roller skates, not all roller skates are quads. "Roller skates" can also refer to inline skates, which require a slightly different skating technique than quad skates.

    History

    • Different versions of roller skates, including quad skates and inline skates, were invented during the 1700s as a way to enjoy the sport of ice skating during summer time. According to skating website Skate FAQ, the sport only became popular in the mid-1800s after an American named James Plimpton designed the modern quad skate. The modern inline skate was developed in 1980 after two brothers found an old inline model and developed their own to help with ice hockey training.

    Features

    • While roller skates is a broad term that refers to different types of skates, quad skates are a specific kind that have distinct features. As well as having a different wheel layout from other skates, they are usually made of leather or vinyl. Their shoes have laces but few boots have ankle support. Unlike other kinds of roller skate that have brakes on the back of their right foot, quad skaters usually have a brake at the front of their boot.

    Function

    • Quad skates are suitable for specific types of skating. They are more popular for indoor and artistic skating, including dancing, that requires complex footwork and turning. These skates have wider wheels and their square platform layout means they are more stable than other skates.Other types of roller skates are more suited to outdoor skating and racing. For example inline skates have four wheels in a line, one behind the other. These skates are faster than most quad skates and are better for skating in straight lines.

    Considerations

    • The type of roller skate you choose will depend on what kind of skating you want to do. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the different types of roller skate so you can make an informed decision about which type of roller skate will be best for you. Although the term roller skates often refers to quads rather than inline skates, ask for details of the skates if you are in doubt.