9 Best Quad Roller Skates of 2025

Built like a tank and ready for action, the Chicago Quad Roller Skates deliver unmatched durability and performance right out of the box. With a reinforced leather high-top boot, 60mm high-rebound urethane wheels, and a heavy-duty aluminum base plate, these skates are engineered to handle everything from roller rinks to city sidewalks. They solve the common beginner’s fear of instability with a double-adjustable truck system and 5/8” toe stop, giving skaters confidence in control and stopping power—perfect for kids stepping into roller derby or daily recreational use.

In real-world testing, these quads roll smoothly on both indoor rink floors and moderately rough pavement, thanks to the semi-precision bearings and resilient wheel compound. The 60mm wheels offer a balanced mix of speed and maneuverability, making them ideal for tight turns and quick stops—though they’re not built for high-speed racing. While the leather-lined interior provides solid ankle support, extended sessions may reveal slight stiffness in the break-in period, especially for younger skaters. Still, the jump bar reinforcement and rugged chassis stand up impressively to jumps and hard landings.

When compared to lighter recreational models like the Riedell RW Wave, the Chicago Deluxe skates prioritize long-term toughness over plush comfort, positioning them as a top pick for active kids and derby newcomers. They’re not the most cushioned option, but their 100-year legacy of craftsmanship and no-nonsense build make them a go-to for families wanting skates that grow with the child. For durability-focused buyers, these offer more structural integrity and safety features than budget convertible models, even if they trade off some flair.

Effortless glide meets everyday comfort in the Riedell RW Wave, a recreational standout that blends smooth performance with reliable support. Designed for casual skaters who want a no-fuss, high-quality roll, these skates feature chromed steel ABEC-5 bearings, 57mm 95A hardness urethane wheels, and a fully adjustable Marvel aluminum plate—a combo that ensures low friction and consistent momentum on rink floors and smooth pavement. The high-top boot with padded lining tackles the common issue of ankle fatigue, delivering a secure fit without sacrificing comfort during long sessions.

On the floor, the RW Wave shines in leisurely cruising and beginner drills, offering a stable, predictable ride that’s easy to control. The rubber toe stopper provides reliable braking, and the metal trucks handle moderate turns without wobbling. However, the 57mm wheels limit outdoor versatility—rough sidewalks and cracks can disrupt the flow, making them best suited for indoor use. While the polished bearings reduce drag, they aren’t race-grade, so speed enthusiasts will feel the limitation.

Positioned between entry-level and performance skates, the RW Wave outclasses budget models like the Epic Skates Super Nitro in build quality and comfort, though it doesn’t match the Riedell R3’s advanced plate or wheel tech. It’s the ideal middle ground for teens and adults who skate weekly at rinks or parks but don’t need competition-grade gear. For recreational users, it delivers better long-term comfort and safety than basic foam-lined skates, even if it’s not built for aggressive skating.

Agility meets beginner confidence in the Chicago Bullet Speed skates, a nimble, youth-focused design that empowers kids to move fast and turn sharp. The low-cut padded boot is a game-changer for young skaters, offering greater ankle mobility without sacrificing support—perfect for learning crossovers or quick directional changes. Backed by a 62mm urethane wheel setup and high-impact chassis, these quads deliver a responsive ride on both rinks and smooth pavement, helping kids build skills with stability and control.

In real-world use, the larger 62mm wheels provide a noticeable speed boost over standard kids’ skates, making them great for outdoor adventures and roller rink games. The reinforced frame handles bumps and jumps better than most youth models, and the supportive toe brake gives reliable stopping power. However, the lack of a high-top design means less ankle protection for aggressive skaters or those still mastering balance. Still, the breathable lining keeps feet cool during long play sessions, reducing hotspots and blisters.

Compared to the MammyGol adjustable lights-up skates, the Bullet Speed model trades glow-in-the-dark fun for real skating performance, making it a smarter long-term investment for serious beginners. While not as customizable as convertible inline-quads, it outperforms them in tracking and roll consistency. For parents seeking a true starter skate that grows with skill, not just shoe size, these deliver better agility and durability than toy-grade alternatives.

Two skating worlds in one pair—the Roller Derby Falcon delivers unmatched versatility for kids still exploring their style. With a quick-swap frame system, these skates convert from quads to inline in minutes, giving young skaters the freedom to experiment without buying two separate pairs. The adjustable sizing fits growing feet across multiple shoe sizes, solving the all-too-common problem of outgrowing skates in months. Loaded with silver-5 bearings and grippy urethane wheels, they offer a smooth, stable roll whether set up as quads or inline.

In practice, the convertible design works surprisingly well, with real trucks on the quad setup providing authentic turning feel and a non-marking brake on the inline side for safe stops. The supportive boot keeps feet secure, though it lacks the padding of higher-end models. On rough surfaces, the smaller wheels can stutter, and the plastic chassis isn’t built for jumps or hard impacts. Still, for casual backyard sessions, rink visits, or park cruising, they deliver solid performance across formats.

When stacked against dedicated quads like the Chicago Deluxe, the Falcon sacrifices some stability and power transfer for flexibility—but that’s the point. It’s not meant to compete with performance skates, but rather to extend playtime and experimentation. For families wanting maximum value and adaptability, these outshine single-format skates, especially for kids unsure whether they prefer quads or inline.

Raw speed on a budget—the Epic Skates Super Nitro brings entry-level racers into the world of quad speed skating without breaking the bank. With a classic low-cut speed boot, ABEC-5 precision bearings, and 62mm nylon plates, these skates are built for straight-line velocity and agility, making them a rare find under $50. The man-made upper with speed strap locks the foot down securely, while the double-action trucks offer responsive turning—key for tight corners and quick transitions.

On smooth surfaces, the Nitro wheels roll impressively fast, and the ABEC-5 bearings keep friction low, allowing for sustained momentum with minimal effort. They handle both indoor rinks and paved trails, though rough concrete exposes their limits—vibration and chatter become noticeable. The lack of advanced cushioning means longer sessions can fatigue ankles, and the nylon plate isn’t as stiff or durable as aluminum alternatives. Still, for beginners or hobbyists testing the speed skating waters, they deliver a thrilling, race-inspired experience.

Compared to the premium Riedell R3, the Super Nitro lacks in material quality and long-term durability, but it outperforms basic recreational skates in tracking and responsiveness. It’s the go-to for budget-conscious adults who want a taste of speed without investing in high-end gear. For entry-level speed training, it offers better agility and roll than general-purpose quads, even if it skips the luxury touches.

The gold standard for all-around performance, the Riedell R3 stands tall as the most well-rounded quad skate in the lineup—engineered for skaters who demand reliability, comfort, and precision. Its PowerDyne Thrust nylon plate, Sonar Cayman 62mm x 43mm wheels, and ABEC-5 chromed bearings form a high-performance trio that delivers exceptional grip, smooth roll, and long-term durability on indoor surfaces. The vinyl boot with Velcro cinch strap offers a snug, customizable fit, making it ideal for frequent skaters who hate readjusting laces mid-session.

In real-world use, the wider 43mm wheels provide superior stability and traction compared to standard 32mm sets, excelling in fast rink laps and tight turns. The PowerDyne toe stopper is highly responsive, and the metal-reinforced trucks handle aggressive leans without flexing. While optimized for indoor use, they can manage smooth outdoor paths—but rough terrain will test their limits. The low-cut design maximizes agility, though it demands stronger ankle control from beginners.

Pitted against the RW Wave, the R3 offers clear upgrades in wheel size, plate rigidity, and braking system, justifying its higher cost for serious skaters. It’s not as flashy as the Candi GRL, but it outperforms in consistency and build quality. For skaters who want one reliable pair for rink workouts, derby drills, or social skating, the R3 strikes the perfect balance of performance, durability, and comfort, making it the top all-in-one contender.

Style meets substance in the Candi GRL Carlin skates, a bold, performance-ready pair that turns heads and delivers on the floor. With 65mm Kemistry Glide wheels, Bevo Silver-5 Race Rated bearings, and a high-end aluminum chassis with PU cushions, these quads are built for speed, grip, and precision turning—a rare combo in the mid-price range. The brushed suede boot offers vintage flair with modern support, making it a favorite for intermediate skaters who want to stand out while skating fast.

On smooth surfaces, the larger 65mm wheels generate serious momentum, reducing push frequency and enhancing outdoor roll efficiency. The aluminum plate with PU cushions absorbs vibrations and improves cornering control, outperforming rigid nylon bases. In tight turns, the precision trucks respond instantly, though beginners may find them overly sensitive. The chrome bearings are race-ready, but not ABEC-7 grade—fast, but not top-tier.

Compared to the Epic Super Nitro, the Carlin offers superior materials, wheel size, and ride quality, justifying its premium feel. It doesn’t match the R3’s width or braking power, but it excels in outdoor agility and visual appeal. For skaters who value both aesthetics and performance, these deliver a unique blend of speed, style, and control that few others match.

Affordable durability with retro flair, the PAPAISON Classic Quad Skates bring old-school charm and solid build to budget-minded adults. Featuring a double-row high-top design, 2-layer microfiber leather, and an aluminum base plate, these skates prioritize stability and ankle support—ideal for beginners learning to balance and stop confidently. The front support column and speed hook lacing enhance control, while the quiet, grippy wheels make for a smooth roll indoors or on clean pavement.

In testing, the microfiber upper proves surprisingly resilient, resisting scuffs and moisture better than expected for the price. The aluminum plate delivers reliable turning and shock absorption, outperforming plastic alternatives. However, the bearings are functional but not precision-grade, leading to more friction over long distances. The thick sole and rigid boot may feel clunky at first, especially for skaters used to low-tops.

Stacked against the Epic Super Nitro, the PAPAISON offers better ankle support and retro style, though it lacks speed-focused tuning. It’s not as flashy as Candi GRL, but it outperforms in stability and beginner safety. For adults seeking a durable, stylish entry skate, these deliver strong value with a classic look, even if they’re not built for high-performance skating.

Fun that grows with your child—the MammyGol Adjustable Skates are a smart, safety-first choice for young beginners. With 4-size adjustability, triple closure system (laces, power strap, ratchet buckle), and self-powered light-up wheels, they combine practicality, safety, and excitement in one vibrant package. The ABEC-7 bearings are a standout at this price, offering smoother, faster rolling than most kids’ skates, while the PU flash wheels add grip and glow without batteries.

In real use, the adjustable fit extends the skates’ lifespan significantly, making them a cost-effective alternative to buying new pairs every season. The ratchet buckle and power strap keep feet locked in, reducing wobble for new skaters. The upgraded brake is responsive, and the mute bearings keep noise low—perfect for indoor rinks or neighborhood paths. However, the plastic chassis limits agility, and the lights can dim on rough terrain.

Compared to the Roller Derby Falcon, MammyGol focuses on single-format stability over conversion, making it better for dedicated quad learners. It doesn’t offer 2-in-1 flexibility, but it excels in safety and adjustability. For parents wanting a long-lasting, fun-first starter skate, these deliver more growth potential and beginner confidence than fixed-size models.