A lot of people do not realise that there are a number of different types of inline skate, each with their own merits for the type of activity they are designed. Each type of skate is not exclusive for instance you can use aggressive skates for recreational skating but each type is better suited for it's own particular style of skating.

Unlike when you play poker or chess where the cards or chess set you use hardly matter, skate choice is crucial to your how efficient you'll be in inline skating. The quality of the skate you buy is an important factor when choosing which to buy. You don't want to be spending £200 on a pair if you're only trying inline skating to se if you like it but you also don't want to buy a really cheap pair that you'll have difficulty in getting going. Decent skates start at around £70 with better quality skates priced between £120 and £200. Professional hockey skates can cost over £300.

Always try on skates before you buy as sizes vary between manufacturers. When the laces/straps are done up on skates your foot should not move around in the boot but they should not be too tight and uncomfortable.

If you're just trying skating it may be worth renting a pair first. The Blue Room in Queensway, central London and many of the Snow and Rock stores offer good packages of skate and protective gear hire.