Choosing the correct roller skates size can be confusing when you can't try them on in person. We strive to help skaters find the best fit possible, even if you can't visit us in store!
Important Notes About Roller Skate Sizing
- All roller skate brands and models have different sizing.
- Your shoe size is not an accurate or reliable indicator of roller skate size. All shoe brands have different sizing. It is not uncommon for people to wear the wrong shoe size or to prefer a much looser fit for their shoes compared to their skates.
- Suede or leather skates should fit very snug at first. They will stretch out over time and mold to your foot.
- High performance skates should fit like a second skin to be as responsive as possible.
- If your foot is moving around inside the boot your skates are too large. This can lead to blisters and toe numbness.
- All skaters prefer a different fit and may prefer thick socks, thin socks, or no socks at all!
Use the guidelines below to carefully measure your feet for the best roller skate fit possible!
Measuring Length
Step 1
Tape a piece of blank paper to the floor flush against the wall on a solid surface (not carpet). Wear the socks you plan to skate in. Stand up straight on the paper with your heel against the wall. Distribute your weight evenly.
Step 2
If possible, have a friend trace your foot for you. Keep the pen/pencil vertical.
Step 3
Use a ruler to measure from the edge of the paper to the furthest marking. This is known as your heel-to-toe length. Measure both feet and compare to our size chart to find your size. If you are prone to foot swelling, measure your feet at different times of day and before and after periods of standing. We prefer taking measurements in millimeters and converting it to inches later if needed.
For most people the heel-toe-length is enough information to choose the right size skate. Compare your measurement to the size charts for the specific skate you are interested in.
Measuring Width
If you know that you have especially narrow or wide feet you should factor this into your decision on which style and model of skates you choose.
- Certain skate models run more narrow and others run more wide.
- For skates that are the proper length but feel too narrow we generally don't recommend sizing up too much just to get more width. Instead consider a different skate style or model.
- Many higher end roller skate boots are available in different width options. Usually these boots are pricier, they are not produced in as large quantities and there is an extra wait or cost on these skates.
- Cost-friendly skates that are pre-assembled and ready out of the box often only come in one width option.
Different manufacturers have different guidelines for measuring foot width.
Riedell
For Riedell brand skates, measure the "circumference" around your foot at the widest point. Use a flexible tape measure or a piece of string.
Bont
For Bont brand skates, trace your foot and measure the distance across at the widest point to determine the width.
Once you have your width, compare it to the size chart for the particular skate you are interested in. Not all skates include a width size chart.