Rollerblade Safety

It is important to take the proper precautions when rollerblading. You must wear protective equipment and take care not to rollerblade too fast for the conditions of the terrain. According to journalwatch.com, a study conducted in 1992 showed at least one out of 250 rollerbladers had an accident serious enough to require a trip to the emergency room.

  1. Prevention

    • A proper fitting helmet is important.

      Wearing the proper equipment is the first way to ensure safety when rollerblading. A proper fitting helmet is first and foremost. An ill fitting helmet will move on impact, increasing the chance for a head injury. Wrist guards, elbow pads and knee guards should round out your protective package.

    Misconceptions

    • Elbow and knee pads are a must for rollerbladers.

      An outside observer might be prone to think rollerblading is a leading contributor for concussions, but this is not the case. Ice skaters suffer more concussions than rollerbladers.

    Rollerblade vs Inline

    • Rollerblade is a trademark name that has become synonymous with inline skates.

    History

    • Rollerblading is a popular activity to keep in shape.

      Two brothers from Minnesota invented Rollerblades in 1980 in their parents' basement. Hockey players and nordic skiiers quickly caught onto the activity and continue to use it today during off-season training.

    Pricing

    • Rollerblades were invented in 1980.

      After repeated use, inline wheels will get torn up on concrete. Wheel replacement can often be expensive and you have to change the wheels yourself. New blades can run you upward of $100, while new wheels, sold in four packs, can go for as much as $45 a pack.