As a young teenager, I spent each Saturday afternoon at Super Skate near my home in Clearwater, Fla., where I learned to play Pac-Man, memorized the lyrics to Queen songs and occasionally even ventured out onto the wooden rink floor to glide around under a ceiling of pulsing lights. It’s the most vivid memory of those childhood years.
Roller skating rinks haven’t entirely disappeared—a quick Google search will surely find one within driving distance of your home. And here are several pairs of roller skates to complete the rest of the adventure.
Sturdy support
Safe for the roller rink or sidewalk, these Firestar skates put comfort first with a padded collar and power strap closure. Those who have purchased them before praise the sturdy construction and strong support for ankles.
Eye-catching design
The power strap here holds the foot securely in the boot—an important feature for beginning skaters. These just look so much cooler than the skates we grew up with. A lightweight beam also makes it easier for younger skaters to move along the rink or sidewalk.
For all ages
The most beloved pair of roller skates I owned were speed skates. I remember everything about them: viking leather boots, “blue devil” speed wheels … and a size 13 boot. (Mom thought I was still growing.) Make your own memories with these Stomp 5 skates, a lightweight model that is designed to be the star of the rink. They’re approved for all ages.
Classic look
I can picture couple-skating around Super Skate in the early ’80s wearing these beauties. REO Speedwagon’s Keep On Loving You would be playing on the tinny stereo system and all of life’s challenges were far, far away. Roller skating had that power back then, and it can have it again.
Superior padding
We love these skates for the padded lining and solid heel, giving the boot both comfort and stability. They’re available in four color combinations and in sizes 3 through 10. These skates are ideal for recreational use for teens and younger women.
Steve Spears is editor of Florida Travel & Life, an online brand that inspires active, affluent travelers, providing them with insider information on discovering the best of Florida. Informative and engaging, the website showcases travel destinations, arts and cultural venues, vibrant dining scenes, recreational activities, the great outdoors and the revitalized real-estate market. He is based in Orlando and counts St. Augustine, Key West and the Gulf Beaches among his favorite destinations in the state.
