Best Riedell Skates Review

We’ll be reviewing Riedell’s entire line of recreational and competitive roller skates to help you find the perfect pair. Riedell is one of the most well-known and trusted skate brands, crafting high-quality skates in the USA for over 70 years.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Riedell skates including sizing, best skates for different styles, skate components, and care/maintenance. Our goal is to provide an in-depth look at these iconic American skates to help you make the ideal choice for your needs.

Skate Model
Skating Style
Boot Material
Plate
Wheel Size
Wheel Hardness
Bearings
Toe Stop
Price
Our Overall Raiting
Outdoor
Leather
PowerDyne Thrust Nylon
Sonar Zen 62mm
85A
ABEC 5
Adjustable
199$ - 249$
Outdoor
Padded Vinyl
Marvel Aluminum
57mm
85A
ABEC-5
Adjustable
119$ - 169$
Outdoor
Vinyl
PowerDyne Thrust Nylon
62mm
85A
ABEC-5
PowerDyne Adjustable
155$ - 209$
Outdoor
Suede Leather
PowerDyne Thrust Nylon
Radar Energy 57mm
78A
ABEC-5
Bolt-on
229$ - 315$
Rink & Speed
Vinyl
Aluminum
57mm
90A
Full Precision
Bolt-on
95$ - 105$
Rink & Speed
Vinyl
PowerDyne Thrust Nylon
62mm
93A
ABEC-5
Midi Gripper
129$ - 145$
Rhythm
Vinyl
PowerDyne Thrust Nylon
Sonar Riva 57mm
96A
ABEC-5
Jam plug
175$
Rhythm
Leather
PowerDyne Reactor Neo Aluminum
Radar Varsity 62mm
78A
KwiK Zenith
Jam plug
369$
Rhythm
Leather
PowerDyne Thrust Nylon
Radar Riva 57mm
96A
ABEC-5
Jam plug
189$ - 239$
Rhythm
Leather
PowerDyne Reactor Neo Aluminum
Radar Varsity Plus 57mm
101A
KwiK Zenith
Jam plug
709$
Derby
Vinyl
PowerDyne Thrust Nylon
Sonar Aura 59mm
88A or 92A
ABEC-5
PowerDyne Adjustable
155$ - 179$
Derby
Leather
PowerDyne Reactor Pro Aluminum
Radar Halo 59mm
93A
KwiK Zenith
PowerDyne Jupiter
800$
Jam
Leather
PowerDyne Reactor Neo Aluminum
Sonar Ninja 59mm
93A
KwiK Zenith
Jam plug
669$
Artistic
Vinyl
PowerDyne Thrust Nylon
Radar Riva 57mm
96A
ABEC-5
PowerDyne Adjustable
175$
Artistic
Leather
PowerDyne Thrust Nylon
Radar Varsity 62mm
98A
KwiK Zenith
PowerDyne Adjustable
249$ - 255$
Artistic
Leather
PowerDyne Fuse Enhanced Nylon
Radar Varsity 57mm
98A
KwiK Zenith
Adjustable PowerDyne
555$

Overview of Riedell as a company

Riedell Skates was founded in 1945 in Red Wing, Minnesota by Paul Riedell. The company has stayed family-owned and operated in the USA for over 70 years. Where are Riedell skates made? Riedell proudly hand-crafts all of their skates in Red Wing at their Minnesota factory.

Who owns Riedell? Riedell has remained family-owned by the Riedell family since it was founded in 1945. They take pride in their history of American ownership.

At their Red Wing headquarters, Riedell carefully selects premium materials and assembles each component of every skate by hand. Riedell prides itself on making high-quality skates from start to finish in the United States.

In addition to recreational skates, Riedell offers competitive figure skating, roller derby, jam skating, and speed skating boots. They are the choice of many Olympic and professional athletes across skating disciplines.

Riedell has cemented itself as one of the most well-known and trusted skate brands by making quality American-made skates for over 70 years. Their expert craftsmanship and reputation make them a top choice for both new and seasoned skaters.


Skate Categories

Riedell offers a wide selection of skates tailored for different skating styles and experience levels. We’ll break down the top Riedell outdoor roller skates, as well as models for indoor, jam, speed, derby, artistic, and rhythm skating. This will help you find the ideal skate based on your needs.

 

Outdoor Skates

For recreational outdoor skating, the Riedell Orbit skates are an excellent choice. In our testing and review of Riedell outdoor roller skates, we rated the Riedell Orbit 4.5 out of 5 stars overall. This 4.5-star rating is based on our thorough examination and testing of the Orbit skates.

The other Riedell outdoor roller skates we reviewed include the Crew, R3, and Zone models.

The Orbit skates come in three fun color options – teal, purple, and pink. Pricing for these Riedell outdoor roller skates ranges from 116$-169$ depending on where you purchase them.

As a beginner outdoor skate, the Orbits have a thick padded tongue and aluminum plates for stability. The boots provide comfort while still being supportive for learning basic skills.

The Orbit’s medium ankle height gives you flexibility while offering control. These Riedell outdoor roller skates are a great pick for casual outdoor sessions at your own pace.riedell skates

Some key features of the Riedell Orbit outdoor roller skates:

  • 4.5/5 star rating based on our review
  • Ideal beginner recreational outdoor skate
  • Fun color options: teal, purple, pink
  • Pricing: 116$-169$
  • Thick padded tongue
  • Aluminum plates

 

Here is a link to our full review of the Orbit skates.

 

Rink and Speed Skates

For rink skating and speed skating, the Riedell Dart quad speed skates are an excellent choice. In our testing and review of Riedell speed skates, we rated the Riedell Dart a 4.5 out of 5 stars overall. This 4.5-star rating is based on our thorough examination of the Dart speed skates.

The Riedell speed skates we reviewed in this category include the Dart and RW Wave models.

The Dart Riedell quad speed skates come in different fun colors like Black, Light Blue, Riedell Dart Pixel (Red and black), and Riedell Dart Ombre (Pink/Purple, Yellow/Black).

 

Pricing ranges from 129$-145$ depending on where you buy these Riedell speed skates.
As a speed skating boot, the Dart has a padded low-cut design ideal for a range of motion.

The Riedell Dart speed skates also feature an aluminum plate that provides durability while keeping them lightweight.

Additionally, these Riedell quad-speed skates have a microfiber lining for a smooth feel that prevents blisters. The Dart is a budget-friendly speed skate great for both beginner and experienced skaters.

 

Some key features of the Riedell Dart quad speed skates:

  • 4.5/5 star rating based on our review
  • Padded low-cut boot perfect for speed
  • Aluminum plates are durable and lightweight
  • Microfiber lining prevents irritation
  • Ideal entry-level Riedell speed skate
  • Pricing: 129$-145$

 

Here is a link to our full review of the Dart skates.



Rhythm Skates

For rhythm skating, we recommend the Riedell Boost quad figure skates for beginners and the Riedell Juice for more advanced skaters.

For beginners, the Riedell Boost earns a 5 out of 5-star rating in our testing and review of Riedell figure skates. The Boost retails for 175$ and comes in two colors – black or white.

As an affordable beginner Riedell figure skate, the Boost is lightweight and has a padded tongue for comfort. The reasonable price point makes the Boost a great choice for skaters learning rhythm skills.

Here is a link to our full review of the Boost skates.

 

For intermediate to advanced rhythmic skaters, we recommend the Riedell Juice quad figure skates. In our review, the Juice scored 4.5 out of 5 stars for its durable aluminum plate and snug supportive fit. This Riedell figure skate is available in black or white for $369.
The other Riedell figure skates we tested for rhythm dancing include the Uptown and OG models.

Here is a link to our full review of the Juice skates.

A few key features of the Riedell Boost and Juice rhythm skates:

  • Boost: 5/5 stars, ideal for beginners, 175$, padded tongue, lightweight
  • Juice: 4.5/5 stars, aluminum plate, snug fit,369$

 

Both the Boost and Juice enable you to move, sway, and groove to music with comfort and support. They provide great options for Riedell figure skates at different experience levels.

 

Riedell derby skates

For roller derby, we recommend the Riedell R3 derby skates for beginners and the Riedell Solaris Pro for advanced derby skaters.

The beginner Riedell R3 derby skates receive a 4.5 out of 5-star rating in our testing and review of Riedell roller derby skates. The R3 retails from 155$-179$ depending on the retailer and comes in classic black.

As an affordable entry-level Riedell derby skate, the R3 is lightweight with a snug heel lock and quick break-in time. This makes it ideal for those learning derby skills.

 

Here is a link to our full review of the R3 Derby skates.

 

For more professional derby skaters, we recommend the Riedell Solaris Pro roller derby skates. The Solaris Pro is a truly elite Riedell derby skate designed for competitive skaters who want the best of the best. This top-tier skate earned a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in our review for its unparalleled performance.

The Solaris Pro retails for $800 given its premium quality materials and construction. This significant investment is justified for serious derby competitors seeking the highest level Riedell roller derby skate on the market.

The Solaris Pro delivers flawless precision and response through its lightweight alloy plate and V-cut ankle support. The snug, tailored fit hugs your foot for ultimate control when juking and cutting at high speeds.

While expensive, the Riedell Solaris Pro is the gold standard for competitive derby skaters who want a true high-performance skate built to dominate. If you’re an elite derby athlete, the Solaris Pro is for you.

Here is a link to our full review of the Solaris Pro skates.

A few key features of the R3 and Solaris Pro Riedell roller derby skates:

  • R3: 4.5/5 stars, beginner model, 155$-179$, lightweight, snug heel
  • Solaris Pro: 5/5 stars, aluminum plate, V-cut ankle support, 800$

 

Both the R3 and Solaris Pro enable you to skate with the precision and agility needed for derby. They provide excellent Riedell roller derby skate options at different levels.


Jam Skates

For professional jam skating, we highly recommend the Riedell Quest skates. In testing and reviewing high-performance Riedell jam skates, the Riedell Quest earned a perfect 5 out of 5-star rating from us.

Designed for elite jam skaters, the Riedell Quest retails from 400$-974$ depending on the customization. This investment is justified by the flawless quality and maneuverability that serious jam skaters demand.

The Quest excels with its snug lace cover locking feet in securely for advanced moves. As an incredibly agile and lightweight Riedell jam skate, the Quest delivers the elite response and fluidity needed to link complex moves.

From rigid support to broken-in flexibility, the Quest is engineered to perfection right out
of the box for seamless transitions. The flawless quality enables jam skaters to carve the floor and skate with responsiveness.

While expensive, the Riedell Quest is the gold standard for professional jam skaters wanting the absolute best performance. If you’re a competitive jam skater, the Quest is the Riedell jam skate for you.

Here is a link to our full review of the Quest skates.

 

Artistic Skates

For artistic skating, we recommend the Riedell Raven for beginner to intermediate skaters and the Riedell Epic for advanced artistic skaters.

The beginner Riedell Raven artistic roller skates receive a 4.5 out of 5 star rating in our testing and reviews. The Raven retails for 249$-255$ and comes in classic black or white.

As an affordable entry-level Riedell artistic skate, the Raven is lightweight with a padded tongue for comfort. This makes it a great choice for developing artistic skating skills.

Here is a link to our full review of the Raven skates

 

For more professional artistic skaters, we recommend the elite Riedell Epic artistic roller skates. The Epic is a truly high-end Riedell artistic skate designed for competitive skaters who want the absolute best. This top-tier skate earned a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in our review for its unparalleled performance.

The Epic retails for 555$ given its premium quality materials and construction. This significant investment is justified for serious artistic competitors seeking the highest level Riedell artistic roller skate on the market.

The Epic delivers flawless support and response through its reinforced structure and extra plush padding, enabling optimal shock absorption for jumps and tricks. The tailored fit hugs your foot for ultimate control when performing complex movements.

While expensive, the Riedell Epic artistic skate represents the gold standard for professional skaters wanting a true high-performance boot built to meet their athletic demands. For elite artistic athletes, the Epic is the Riedell skate to choose from.

Here is a link to our full review of the Epic skates.

 

The Riedell Angel is another model we tested for artistic skating.

A few key features of the Raven and Epic Riedell artistic roller skates:

Raven: 4.5/5 stars, beginner model, 249$-255$, lightweight, padded tongue
Epic: 5/5 stars, reinforced structure, plush padding, 555$

Both the Raven and Epic enable you to skate with the support needed for artistic skating. They provide excellent Riedell artistic roller skate options at different levels.


Are Riedell Skates Good?

This is a common question among new skaters buying their first pair of Riedell skates – are Riedell skates good? The short answer is yes, Riedell makes excellent recreational and competitive skates that are known for their quality and performance.

However, it’s important to understand that Riedell offers many different models designed for specific skating activities. So while Riedell skates are good overall, you need to select the right model based on the type of skating you plan to do.

For example, Riedell outdoor skates provide great value and durability for casual skating outdoors. But these would not be optimal for competitive indoor roller derby which requires a stiff, supportive boot.

On the other hand, Riedell speed skates engineered for racing would not have the stability required for rhythm skating which involves dance footwork.

The key is identifying the skating discipline you are interested in pursuing and then choosing the appropriate Riedell skate built for that purpose. While the quality is excellent across their line, you want the model designed specifically for your needs.

So in summary – yes, Riedell skates are good in terms of reputation, materials, and construction. But consulting this buyer’s guide helps ensure you purchase the ideal Riedell skate for the type of skating you plan to do.

 

Care and Maintenance

Properly caring for your Riedell skates will keep them performing at their best for years. Here are some tips for cleaning and maintaining both leather and vinyl Riedell boots.

How to Clean Leather Riedell Skates:

For Leather Riedell Boots

  • Remove laces and insoles
  • Mix a solution of lukewarm water and soap. Use mild soap like saddle soap or Ivory soap.
  • With a clean cloth, gently scrub the leather with the soap mixture.
  • Rinse leather using a cloth dampened with clean water to remove all soap residue.
  • Wipe the skates dry with a clean towel and allow them to fully air dry.
  • Use a leather conditioner to moisturize the leather after cleaning.

 

For vinyl Riedell boots

  • Mix a solution of lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent.
  • With a soft brush or sponge, gently clean the vinyl upper with the soap mixture.
  • Rinse thoroughly with a clean damp cloth to remove residue.
  • Wipe the skates dry with a clean towel and allow them to fully air dry.
  • Apply vinyl conditioner to restore shine and protection.

Vinyl can be submerged in water since it’s a synthetic material. Take care not to damage any inner linings.

 

General Care and Maintenance Tips

  • Inspect wheels, plates, and hardware regularly and replace worn parts
  • Rotate wheels frequently to extend life
  • Store skates out of direct sunlight when not in use
  • Consider waterproofing sprays to repel dirt and scuffs
  • Replace insoles/cushions regularly for shock absorption
  • Monitor screw tightness in plates to avoid loosening

Routine care will maximize your skates’ longevity and performance. Don’t hesitate to contact Riedell for any issues or questions.


Riedell Bearings

The performance of your Riedell skates depends not only on the boots and plates but also on the bearings that enable wheel spin. Here we’ll cover the bearing types Riedell uses and how to care for them.

Types of Bearings Used in Riedell Skates

Riedell uses two primary types of bearings in their skate wheels:

  • Riedell 5 ABEC Rating Bearings – These provide a basic level of speed and smoothness. The 5 ABEC rating means they meet standard precision requirements.
  • Riedell Kwik Zenith Bearings – This premium bearing feels similar to a 9 ABEC rating but is uniquely designed by Riedell. Kwik Zenith bearings offer high speeds with control.

 

The higher-grade Kwik Zenith bearings are standard in Riedell’s high-performance skates, while recreational models may use the 5 ABEC bearings. Both offer smooth roll and reliability.

 

Bearing Maintenance and Cleaning

With use, dirt and lubricant buildup can slow bearings and hurt performance. Regular cleaning and lubrication help maintain speed.

  • Remove bearings from wheels using a bearing puller tool. Clean off the metal shields.
  • Place bearings in a degreaser solution or citrus solvent. Shake and let soak briefly.
  • Rinse bearings thoroughly, dry, and apply 2-3 drops of speed skating lubricant per bearing.

Rotate between sets of bearings to allow proper drying after cleaning. Proper bearing maintenance promotes longevity.

We made 2 guides that can help you in this process:

  1. How To Remove Bearings From Roller Skate Wheels
  2. How To Clean Roller Skate Bearings



 

Riedell Plates

The plate mounted beneath the boots is what allows you to glide on your wheels. Here we’ll overview Riedell’s plate options and their care.

 

Overview of Different Plate Options

Most Riedell skate models use either nylon plates or aluminum plates:

Nylon plates are lightweight but less durable under heavy use. They provide flexibility for artistic skating.

Aluminum plates are rigid for power transfer and very durable for high speeds. But they are heavier than nylon.

Higher-end Riedell skates use aircraft-grade aluminum for maximum energy transfer to wheels. Recreational models may use reinforced nylons.

 

Pros and Cons of Nylon vs. Metal Plates

Nylon plate advantages:

  • Lightweight
  • Flexibility and shock absorption

Nylon plate disadvantages:

  • Less durable under heavy loads
  • Not as rigid for speed

Aluminum plate advantages:

  • Very durable and damage-resistant
  • Maximum rigidity and power transfer

Aluminum plate disadvantages:

  • Heavier than nylons
  • Not as flexible
  • Adjusting and Maintaining Plates

 

Plates should be periodically checked for loose mounting screws. Use a compatible tool to tighten any loose screws to avoid instability.

Avoid dragging skates sideways, which can bend and damage plates over time. Storing skates upright rather than on their sides will add to plate longevity.


Sizing

When it comes to fit, a common question is – are Riedell skates true to size? The answer is yes, Riedell skates do tend to run true to size in most cases.

Riedell designs their skates using standard US shoe sizing. The outsoles and boot dimensions closely match typical street shoe sizes.

Do Riedell skates run big or small? While some skates may fit slightly big or small, overall Riedells are true to size. The sizing is consistent and matches most people’s expectations.

For example, if you normally wear a size 8 street shoe, a size 8 Riedell skate will most likely fit your foot properly. The length, width, and volume should all align with a typical size 8 shoe fitting.

Some key points about Riedell sizing:

  • They are true to regular U.S. shoe sizes
  • Women: one full size down from U.S. shoe size.
  • The sizing runs fairly consistent overall
  • Most skaters find their true shoe size fits well in Riedell boots

 

While the width and volume may vary slightly between models, the standard length sizes are made to match your normal foot measurements.

So in most cases, you can confidently order your true shoe size in Riedell skates and expect a proper fit. But as always, consulting the sizing charts and trying boots on is recommended whenever possible.

 

Riedell Roller Skates Size Charts

Riedell – Men’s Width Chart

 

Riedell – Women’s Width Chart

 

Riedell – Children’s Width Chart

 

Riedell – Women’s and Men’s Riedell Skate Sizes

 

Riedell – Girls’ and Boys’ Riedell Skate Sizes

 

Here are some tips on measuring your foot length correctly at home:

  • Stand with your back against a wall and place your foot flat on the floor in front of you.
  • Use a ruler or tape measure placed perpendicular from the wall to the tip of your longest toe.
  • The measurement in inches or centimeters from wall to toe is your foot length.
  • Foot length is also referred to as the Mondopoint measurement, which is the international standard of foot size in millimeters.
  • Compare your foot length to Riedell’s size charts to find your proper boot size.
  • Keep in mind sizes may vary slightly across brands and styles.

 

While helpful for getting an estimate, home foot measurements are not a substitute for trying on skates in person. Each foot may be slightly different in size and shape.

For the most accurate sizing, visit your local skate shop and try on Riedell models to ensure proper fit and comfort. This will help you select the optimal boot size for your unique feet.

Finding your proper Riedell skate size is crucial for comfort and performance. Riedell offers a range of standard and narrow/wide widths for both men’s and women’s sizes, as well as designated youth sizing.

Consulting the Riedell sizing charts and size guide is the first step in determining the optimal size skate for your feet. The Riedell skates size charts include:

  • Men’s Width Chart
  • Women’s Width Chart
  • Children’s Width Chart
  • Women’s and Men’s Riedell Skate Sizes
  • Girls’ and Boys’ Riedell Skate Sizes

 

However, the Riedell skates size charts are only a guide. The best way to find your perfect Riedell skates size is to have your feet properly measured by an experienced skate fitter at your local skate shop.

While Riedell’s high-quality boots are designed to mold to your feet over time, starting with the right size skate will prevent discomfort and maximize your skating performance. Don’t rely solely on the Riedell skates size charts – take advantage of professional fitting if possible.

Properly sizing your Riedell skates using the available resources will ensure you enjoy the comfort and support needed to skate your very best.


Conclusion

We hope this comprehensive review helps you determine the best Riedell skates based on your skating interests and experience level. Riedell has been making quality roller skates for over 70 years and their expertise is clear across recreational and competitive models.

Our Riedell skates review covered key considerations from proper sizing to components and maintenance. While Riedell makes excellent skates overall, it’s crucial to select the right model designed specifically for your skating discipline.

Whether you are looking for the best Riedell skates for jam skating, derby, rhythm, outdoor use, or artistic pursuits, understanding your needs and experience helps narrow the selection. Riedell caters to skaters of every level with the right features to match your goals.

Keep in mind that proper fit and sizing are vital for both comfort and performance when using Riedell roller skates. Consult the sizing charts and visit a knowledgeable skate shop if possible. This will ensure you get the ideal size to maximize your skating.

With the right Riedell skates properly sized and cared for, you’ll be able to roll and glide with ease. We hope this Riedell skates review gave you the information needed to pick your perfect pair. Happy skating on your new Riedells!

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Welcome to Skates of Glory! Join us as we dive into the roller skating world, sharing insights, tips, and inspiration for skaters of all levels. Let's roll together and embrace the skate life!

Oliver Harris
Greetings fellow skater, I'm Oliver Harris!

Hello, I am Oliver Harris, a skilled roller skater with expertise in roller derby and speed skating who brings years of experience and contagious enthusiasm to Skates of Glory.

Emma Moore
Hey there fellow skater, my name is Emma Moore

I am Emma Moore, an accomplished artistic roller skater and professional coach who combines sports psychology with my passion for skating.

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