Rollerblade Hardboot Comparison
Rollerblade offers molded plastic boots for Urban and Cross Training skating. Take a look at the key differences between these classic hard boot models.
| Family | Skate Type | Fit | Sizing | Aluminum Mounting Blocks |
| RB | Urban | Wide | True to Size | No |
| Lightning | Urban/Cross-Training | Relaxed | True to Size | Yes |
| Maxxum | Cross-Training | Performance | True to Size | Yes |
| Twister | Urban |
Performance |
True to Size (After Break-in) | Yes |
RB Family
Javi riding on the Rollerblade RB Cruiser Women's Skates
Summary
Additional volume combined with multiple cutouts for airflow the boots less rigid (or stiff). This helps feet be cool and dry and the skates easier to get in and out. The more casual fit and feel is to be enjoyed by all whether skating recreationally or urban skating.
They come packaged with solid components like aluminum frames, with cost savings coming from the use of different buckles (plastic), frames, wheels, shock erasers, and bearings when compared to the other models. They are comfortable out of the box, without any need for break-in time.
This blend of performance with value has made RB Skates extremely popular. However, the addition of the Lightning boot in 2024 resulted in fewer RB models being offered. Popular models such as the RB Cruiser, RB Pro X, and RB 110 are soon to fade away. Only the RB 80 models in both Men’s and Women’s will carry it forward.
Key Takeaways:
- Lowest price point
- Easy to get in and out
- Moderate ventilation
Lightning Family
Rollerblade Lightning 80 Womens Skates
Summary
Rin 2024, the Lightning boots are modeled after the RB shell. They offer similar volume, ventilation, shock absorption, and even value with reasonable price points and additional features.
The cutouts offer airflow to keep feet cool and dry and make the boots less rigid so that they are easy to get in and out of. They are offered in packages that include 80mm, 90mm, or 110mm wheels. This ensures there is a Lightning is for every skill and/or environment, whether it's for fitness, urban freeskating, or skating just for fun.
Along with having more color and wheel options, the Lightning is the first (and only at this time) to feature Rollerblade metal memory buckles. These are used at both the cuff and 45-degree positions, micro-adjusting for a personalized fit that is remembered for the next time you return to skating. Lightning Liners mold naturally with skate time and require no break-in time to feel comfortable. Aluminum frame mounting blocks create a more responsive and synergistic feel between the boot and the frame.
The newest to the hardboot lineup and expected to be quickly one of if not the most popular with its blend of performance, comfort, and value. The RB has fewer models in 2024, with the Lightning replacing those lost with a similar boot construction, better liners, and better closures.
Key Takeaways:
- Fitness trainer and urban skate hybrid
- Easy on and off
- Moderate ventilation
- Aluminum Frame Mounting Blocks
Maxxum Family
Rollerblade Maxxum XT Mens Skates
Rollerblade Maxxum 125 3WD Skates
Summary
The Maxxum boots model the Twister shell, in that they use similar (if not the same) lowers with different cuffs. The result is a snugger fit that is more performance-oriented.
They feature metal buckles and a shell that has very few cutouts. Although limited in its ventilation, the added rigidity increases response and energy transfer. The cuffs do not wrap around completely like on the Twister. This makes the Maxxum easier to get in and out of. Packages include options with 90mm or 125mm wheels only. Performance Liners with a Comfort Flex Tongue (hard plastic piece) work to optimize support and flex in all directions. Aluminum frame mounting blocks at the base of the boots allow for frame adjustment front to back and improve response and energy transfer between the boots and the frames.
Altogether it makes for a fast and responsive urban skate that leans more to the urban skate side of things, but it covers ground easily if wanting to use it for fitness and cross-training activities.
Key Takeaways:
- Urban and fitness trainer hybridizing versatility
- Performance fit (snug)
- Limited ventilation
Twister Family
Rollerblade Twister XT Women's Skates
Summary
Twister boots are the most form-fitted, working to minimize negative space that will cause the loss of energy and response. It is the most performance-oriented pure-play urban hard boot.
They feature metal buckles and a shell with no cutouts on the sides (one vent on the bottom). It is limited in ventilation and focused on maintaining rigidity to enhance response and energy transfer. The cuffs now wrap completely around the front of the foot to lock the skater in. Performance Liners with a Comfort Flex Tongue (hard plastic piece) work to optimize support and flex in all directions. Aluminum frame mounting blocks at the base of the boots allow for frame adjustment front to back and improve response and energy transfer between the boots and the frames. At the time of this writing, this boot is packaged with 80mm or 110mm (brake sold separately) wheels only.
They come in packages with high-quality components, making the performance and cost of the Twister best suited for advanced urban skaters.
Key Takeaways:
- Urban Freeskate
- Performance fit
- No ventilation
