Many people who want to learn how to skate get confused when asked what type of skates they would like to use. While roller skates and inline skates have similar names, they have major differences that are easy to tell apart.

1. The Difference between Roller Skates
and Inline Skates
Many people who want to learn how to skate get confused
when asked what type of skates they would like to use. While
roller skates and inline skates have similar names, they have
major differences that are easy to tell apart. Here are some of
them:
Appearance
Roller skates have two wheels in front and
two in the back. It has a round stopper in front
of the shoe, which is almost the same size as
the wheels.
Inline skates have four wheels that are in a
straight position. Its stopper is rectangularshaped and near the heel, which is at the rear of
the skate. Skaters will have to do the opposite,
depending on the type of skate they’re wearing.

2. Speed or Stability
Roller skates have heavier wheels, but are more stable
because anyone can stand straight without support. It’s ideal for
beginners because they can learn how to balance properly.
Inline skates have lighter wheels, but are more difficult to learn.
It offers better support to the ankle because of its wheel
position, though. Those who have mastered the basics prefer
this because it’s faster and they can use it outdoors.
Type of Sport
Roller skates, also known as
quads,
became
a
cultural
phenomenon among children in
the 1970s. This is because of the
contact sport called “Roller
Derby.” Two teams will try to
overlap each other while racing
on a track to make points.

3. Inline skates came from the
roller skate design. During the
1980s, it was created to be a
substitute training gear for ice
skating. It became more popular
when the Rollerblade brand
marketed it to the public. Other
activities related to inline skates
became well-known, such as roller hockey, speed skating, and
freestyle slalom skating.
The type of skates used depends on the purpose.
Regardless of the choice, however, mastering the basics of
gliding, stopping, and balancing are important to make the
experience more fun and exciting.

4. Sources:
http://speedskateworld.com/2013/roller-skating-quads-vs-inlineskates/
http://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-the-difference-between-roller-skatesand-roller-blades.htm
http://www.prolineskates.com/