The right inline skate size determines whether you skate in control and without pressure points or end up opening the buckles after half an hour. A skate that is too big gives no support; one that is too small pinches the toes and ankles. This guide shows how to measure your feet correctly and check the fit. Our size chart serves as a starting point.
Measuring your feet correctly
Feet change in size over the course of the day. It is therefore best to measure them in the evening, when your feet are slightly swollen from walking and standing. Here is how:
- Put on the sock you will be skating in later, ideally a thin sports sock.
- Stand with your full weight on a sheet of paper and mark the heel and the longest toe.
- Measure the length between the two marks in centimetres.
- Also measure the width at the widest point of the forefoot.
- Measure both feet. The larger foot determines the size.
Every manufacturer measures differently
Your everyday shoe size is only a rough guide. Sizes vary depending on the manufacturer and model, and the shape of the last also differs: some skates are cut rather narrow, others offer more room in the forefoot. So always compare your measured foot length with the information from the respective manufacturer instead of simply ordering your usual shoe size.
Speed skate or fitness skate: a different fit
| Fitness and recreational skates | Speed skates | |
|---|---|---|
| Cuff | high, with lateral support at the ankle | low-cut |
| Fit | comfortable, with a padded liner | close-fitting, like a second skin |
| Adjustment | laces, buckles, sometimes a Boa closure | often a heat-mouldable shell |
With recreational skates, the toes should lightly touch the front without being cramped. Speed skates are deliberately chosen tighter so that the power is transferred to the frame without any play. Many models, such as the Bont JET or the Rollerblade Powerblade PRO 125, have a heat-mouldable shell that adapts to the foot after heating. Some fitness skates such as the K2 VO2 S 100 BOA also have a heat-mouldable boot.
Kids' skates that grow with them
Children's feet grow quickly. Many kids' skates can therefore be adjusted in length at the push of a button. The Rollerblade Microblade grows through four sizes, as does the Powerslide Phuzion Kids. Set the skate to fit the child's current foot, not with room to grow: a skate that is too big does not give children secure support. Check the setting regularly.
Checklist for trying on
- Try skates on in the evening and with your skating socks.
- Fully close the laces and buckles.
- The heel sits firmly and does not lift when you lean forward.
- The toes lightly touch the front but do not hit it when you crouch.
- There are no localised pressure points on the ankle, instep or ball of the foot.
- Stand in the skate for a few minutes before you decide.
When Custom-Made Boots make sense
Some feet do not fit into any off-the-shelf boot: very wide or narrow feet, feet of markedly different lengths, or pressure points that remain even after heat moulding. For ambitious speed skaters we therefore offer Custom-Made Boots. For the Bont Vaypor CUSTOM MADE, we take a plaster cast of your feet in our shop by appointment. On this basis, the boot is individually made with a carbon upper.
Our recommendation
Measure your feet carefully and compare the measurements with the size chart. If you are between two sizes or unsure which skate suits the shape of your foot, we will be happy to advise you in person. Since 1995 we have been helping skaters choose their size in our shop in Villingen-Schwenningen, and in our inline workshop we take care of conversions, fitting and special requests. You can find out how to find us under Directions and opening hours.
