Definition
Riedell Skates is an American manufacturer and brand of roller skates and inline skates, known for producing equipment for recreational, artistic, and competitive skating.
Overview
Founded in 1947 in Seattle, Washington, Riedell Skates has become one of the longest‑running skate manufacturers in the United States. The company supplies a wide range of quad (four‑wheel) and inline (five‑wheel) skate models to both consumer and professional markets. Its products are frequently used in artistic roller skating, jam skating, speed skating, and recreational skating. Riedell maintains a distribution network that includes specialty skate shops, sporting‑goods retailers, and an online storefront. The brand is recognized for its emphasis on quality construction, performance‑oriented design, and heritage within the roller‑skating community.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Riedell” derives from the family surname of the company’s founders. The brand was established by the Riedell family, whose members were involved in the early development of the business. The term “Skates” simply denotes the product category—footwear equipped with wheels for rolling movement.
Characteristics
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Product categories | Quad (traditional “roller” skates) and inline (rollerblade‑type) skates. |
| Construction | Classic models often feature maple or birch wood shells for rigidity and vibration damping; higher‑performance lines incorporate aluminum or composite frames. |
| Wheel systems | Uses polyurethane wheels of varying durometers; quad models typically employ a 2‑inch or 2.5‑inch wheel size, while inline models range from 76 mm to 110 mm. |
| Bearing options | Equipped with ABEC‑rated steel bearings; premium models may include ceramic or hybrid bearings for reduced friction. |
| Fit and adjustability | Adjustable sizing via removable toe stops, interchangeable plates, and customizable boot straps or lacing systems. |
| Signature lines | Riedell Dart (artistic), Riedell Classic (recreational), Riedell R‑5 (high‑performance artistic), Riedell Aero (jam/roller‑dance), and Riedell R‑7 (speed). |
| Safety features | Reinforced toe caps, anti‑split soles, and optional brake extensions on certain models. |
| Market presence | Widely used in United States skate competitions; also distributed internationally through specialty retailers. |
Related Topics
- Roller skating
- Quad skates
- Inline skating
- Artistic roller skating
- Roller derby
- Other skate manufacturers (e.g., Moxi, Antik, Bont)
Note: The information presented reflects documented aspects of Riedell Skates as reported by company releases, industry publications, and reputable skate‑equipment references.