Inline skating, just like all sports, requires some gear. This gear can help you become better at the sport, help you prevent injuries and help you feel more comfortable when skating. Here are some of the must have skating gear for all experience levels. Make sure that each piece of gear fits properly and is worn each and every time you skate.

1) Skates

The one piece of gear that you will absolutely need if you want to participate in the sport of inline skating is skates. Skates come in many different varieties, but will be needed no matter where you want to skate. If you are a beginner to the sport, you should invest in either four or three wheeled skates. The wheels on these skates are often larger and are designed to increase your sturdiness while skating. If you are an expert, you may want to invest in five wheeled skates. These skates often have smaller wheels and are designed specifically to improve speed. They will give you less area to balance on and will help you go faster.

2) Helmet

Another crucial piece of inline skating gear that all people should use, regardless of age or ability level, is a helmet. A helmet is the best way to prevent head injuries. Falling backwards is a common way to get injured when inline skating. Therefore, you can find skating helmets on the market that are specifically designed to support a backwards fall. When wearing a helmet, make sure that it is the correct size, it fits snug on your head, the straps are fastened and that you feel comfortable. This is an ideal way to prevent injury and make you feel more comfortable. Before purchasing a helmet, make sure it is the right size. All helmets should come with a size guide to help you get the best fit possible. Allow children and teens to pick out their own helmet that is the correct size because if they are able to choose it, they will be more likely to wear it.

3) Wrist Guard

Another must have piece of inline skating gear is a wrist guard. Wrist guards can help support your wrists during a fall. When people fall, they will typically try to catch themselves by putting out their hands. This increases the risk of a wrist fracture or break. A wrist guard can give you additional support to reduce this injury.

4) Knee Pads

Knee pads are another essential piece of gear for inline skating because provide cushion on your knees if you happen to fall. This padding can help minimize and prevent injuries if you fall and hit the ground. They come in an assortment of colors and sizes so be sure to get ones that fit and look great.

5) Elbow Pads

Elbow pads are another great way to prevent musculoskeletal injuries. They are a great piece of safety gear for all inline skaters. These cushioned pads got snuggly around the elbows to provide an increased sense of security when skating. Like knee pads, they come in an assortment of different colors and sizes. People of all ages, from children to adults, should wear these.

6) Reflective Gear

If you plan on skating before dawn or after dusk you should invest in some fashionable reflective gear. This gear will help ensure that you are seen in the dark. You can get reflective jackets, skates, helmets, shirts, shorts and more. Try choosing light colored gear yo improve your chances of being seen in the dark.

7) Socks

When wearing skates, it is highly recommended that you wear socks. Try investing in longer socks to help prevent irritation from where the skates hit your leg. You can choose from millions of different designs and colors of socks. From plain white socks to rainbow socks to character socks and more, you should find some that you love and represent your personality and style.

8) Mouthguard

A mouth guard is another piece of gear that all inline skaters should have. You only get one set of adult teeth, so it is critical that you take care of them. Wearing a mouth guard will help protect your teeth in case of a fall. If you plan on skating in rough and uneven terrain, you risk of falling increases. This increased your need for a mouth guard. You can choose from clear, black and more. To help the mouth guard fit your mouth, remember to read the instructions on the package. It will often require that you place the mouth guard in boiling water and then bite it and let it sit. This process will help the guard fit snug and stay in place while skating.

9) Gloves

A light weight pair of gloves is another must have piece of inline skating gear. They are stylish and can help protect your hands from getting scratched when you fall. You can choose from a variety of different styles, colors, designs, and sizes. There are ones with open finger slots, closed finger slots, extra padding, grips and more. Try on a few different pairs to see which ones fit and feel the best.

10) Whistle

It is highly recommended that all skaters carry a whistle with them. A whistle will allow you to signal for help if you fall and need help. It is the best way to get attention if you are out of sight, skating in the dark or get lost. It can and should be used in emergency situations to get help. Try wearing it on a necklace or bracelet so that it is always within reach if you need it.

This gear is not always used by all inline skaters, but it should be. There are specific purposes for each piece of gear listed above. Each piece can help prevent injury and make inline skating more enjoyable. This gear is all available at different price ranges so you can shop on a budget to get everything you want.