What gear do I need to play derby?
So you want to learn more about skates and gear before you make any purchases? You’ve come to the right place!
Skates
Roller derby is best played on derby/speed skates, which are generally low-cut in the ankle and flat with little to no raised heel. You can definitely get start out with high-top heeled skates if that’s what you have, but we recommend getting more appropriate skates if you decide to stick with the sport. Heeled skates (often called artistic skates) shift your balance and posture in a way that is not ideal for derby-specific stance and skills. Some reputable skate brands that make derby skates are Riedell, Bont, Antik, Jackson, Chaya, and Sure-Grip.
If you want to learn more about skate anatomy and how it all works, here’s a handy-dandy guide featuring super cute illustrations: Parts of a Roller Skate. There are some variations and exceptions, but it’s a pretty good starting point!
Helmets
We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to invest in a good helmet. You only get one brain! Dual-certified bike/skate helmets or hockey helmets are generally best with S One, Triple 8, and Bauer definitely leading the pack.
Protective pad
Hard capped pads are a must! Preferred brands tend to be 187 Killer, S One, Smith Scabs, TSG, and Triple 8’s RD & KP lines.
Mouthguards
Any mouthguard will get the job done, but the Sisu brand is definitely a well- known favorite. Sisu mouthguards are so comfortable and thin that you can easily talk and drink while wearing one.
Wheels
Wheels are a whole ‘nother animal you don’t need to worry too much about early on. Whatever wheels come on your skates — especially if they’re derby skates — should be fine while you’re learning the basics. That said, we can tell you that our practice floor is usually slick and most of our skaters prefer wheel hardnesses in the range of 88a-95a.
What does that even mean? We're so glad you asked! Check out this handy-dandy Roller Derby Wheel Guide
Second Hand Gear
Skate gear can get expensive, but we don’t want that to keep anyone from derby if it’s something they truly want to do. Good news: there’s a booming secondhand skate market online including a swap & sell page called Roller Derby Recyclables on Facebook. Buying gently used gear is great, however, we would not advise buying a pre-owned helmet or mouthguard. If you need to borrow loaner skates/gear, please reach out and ask - we often have extra stuff.
Recommended Shops
Shop local! If you’re buying your skates or gear new (treat yourself, amirite?), we recommend shopping with our friends at Bruised Boutique Skate Shop based in Nashua, NH. If you’re able to make the trip, going in person is the best way ensure you get the best set up and skate fit for you, but they do have a website and are always happy to answer questions. Bonus: once you sign up with us at AFA, we have a 10% off discount code we can share with you — so lock in before you check out!