Here at Inlinex, where we pride ourselves on being Singapore's premier inline skate shop (and with 1,074 Google Reviews averaging 4.9 stars, you know we walk the talk!), we've seen countless skaters find their perfect pair. Among our bestsellers, one skate consistently stands out for its robust performance, undeniable comfort, and exceptional value: the Rollerblade RB 80 Skates.
But this isn't just another product description. We're going to dive deep into what makes the RB 80 tick, drawing on genuine skater experiences and honest insights, so you can decide if this urban legend is the right ride for you.
Beyond the Specs: Why the Rollerblade RB 80 is an Urban Skating Icon
The Rollerblade RB 80 isn't just a skate; it's a gateway. It's the skate that countless beginners fall in love with, and many intermediate skaters continue to rely on for their urban adventures. Priced at a very accessible SGD $193.29, it offers a blend of features usually found in much pricier models. What truly sets it apart? Its reputation as a comfortable, durable, and highly versatile hard boot skate, especially for those who often struggle with narrower fits.
The Praises: What Skaters Love About the RB 80
When you scour online forums, YouTube reviews, and chat with skaters at our shop, a few consistent themes emerge about the RB 80. These aren't just marketing claims; they're real experiences:
- Unmatched Comfort, Especially for Wider Feet: This is arguably the RB 80's biggest selling point. If you have wider, broader, or even flatter feet, you know the struggle of finding a hard boot skate that doesn't pinch or create hot spots. The RB 80, with its "wide cut" and roomier toe box, is a godsend. Skaters consistently praise its plush, memory-foam liner and shock-absorbing padding that cradles the foot, allowing for longer, more comfortable sessions. As one user put it, it's "a preferred option for skaters with broader or flatter feet who often struggle with narrower skates." This comfort factor is huge for both beginners building stamina and experienced urban explorers.
- Built Like a Tank: Durability You Can Trust: Urban skating throws a lot at your gear – bumps, scrapes, jumps, and unexpected impacts. The RB 80's molded plastic shell and extruded aluminum frame are repeatedly cited for their robust build quality. This isn't a skate that will fall apart after a few tough sessions; it's designed to withstand the rigours of city skating, offering peace of mind and excellent longevity.
- Stability and Control for Confidence: Whether you're a beginner finding your balance or an intermediate skater navigating crowded streets, stability is key. The RB 80's 4x80mm wheel setup, wide platform, and reinforced cuff provide excellent stability and support. This translates to greater confidence on varied urban terrains, from smooth park paths to cracked pavements. The extruded aluminum frame also plays a crucial role here, enhancing power transfer and responsiveness, giving you precise control over your movements.
- Ready for Anything: Excellent Upgradeability: The RB 80 isn't just a great skate out of the box; it's a platform for growth. Featuring standard 165mm frame mounting with durable metal mounting plates, you have the flexibility to easily swap out frames as your skills and preferences evolve. Want to try a bigger wheel setup? Or perhaps a rockered frame for freestyle tricks? The RB 80 is ready. The removable liner also offers customization options, allowing you to fine-tune your fit or replace it down the line.
- Superb Value for Money: For its price point, the RB 80 delivers an incredible package. Many users consider it "a great all-around skate at an excellent price point," offering a fantastic balance of features, performance, and durability that's hard to beat. It's an investment that pays dividends in enjoyable skating hours.
The Honest Look: What to Consider
No skate is perfect for everyone, and the RB 80 has a few areas where discerning skaters might consider upgrades or alternatives. Being upfront about these helps you make the best decision:
- Basic Stock Wheels: The stock 80mm/82A wheels are perfectly adequate for beginners and casual cruising. However, as your skills progress and you crave more speed or a smoother roll, you might find them a bit "basic" or "slower" compared to higher-end options. This is a common point of feedback. The good news? Wheels are one of the easiest and most impactful upgrades you can make.
- Liner Lacing (Newer Models): One user noted that some newer RB 80 models feature liners without eyelets all the way up. While this might not affect everyone, it could limit how tightly some skaters can lace the liner, potentially impacting the very top of the fit for those who prefer maximum snugness. This is a minor point, but worth noting if you have very specific lacing preferences.
- Laces Quality: A minor complaint, but some reviews mention the stock laces are a bit thin and not waxed, suggesting they could be upgraded for a more secure and durable lacing experience. Again, an easy and inexpensive fix.
Who Should Buy the Rollerblade RB 80?
Based on all the feedback and our own experience, the RB 80 is an excellent choice for:
- Beginners: Its stability, comfort, and robust build make it incredibly forgiving and confidence-inspiring for those new to inline skating.
- Intermediate Skaters: If you're looking to progress into urban skating, commuting, or even dabbling in some freestyle moves, the RB 80 offers the durability and control you need, with plenty of room for upgrades.
- Skaters with Wider or Flatter Feet: Seriously, if you've struggled with other skates pinching your toes or feeling too narrow, the RB 80 is often the answer.
- Value Seekers: You want a high-quality, durable hard boot skate without breaking the bank.
- Urban Explorers: For navigating varied city environments, its stability and tough construction are ideal.
Who Might Want to Skip It?
While versatile, the RB 80 might not be your first choice if:
- You Have Very Narrow Feet: While adaptable, its wide nature might mean you'll struggle to get a truly snug fit.
- You Demand Top-Tier Speed Out of the Box: While capable, the stock wheels aren't built for racing. You'd need to factor in an immediate wheel upgrade.
- You Need Advanced Rockering Immediately: The standard frame does not offer rockering. While you can upgrade the frame, some competitors offer rockered frames out of the box.
Sizing Tips for the Perfect Fit
Getting the right size is crucial for comfort and performance. Rollerblade skates, like most hard boots, can feel stiff initially. Here’s our advice:
- Measure Your Feet: Always measure your foot length (Mondopoint) and compare it to Rollerblade's size chart.
- Consider Your Usual Shoe Size: While a good starting point, don't rely solely on it. Inline skate sizing can differ.
- Try Them On (If Possible): If you're in Singapore, come down to Inlinex! Trying them on is the best way to assess the fit. Your toes should lightly brush the front of the liner when standing, but not be painfully curled. Your heel should be locked in place.
- Available Sizes: The RB 80 is available in a comprehensive range from EU 36.5 to EU 48, making it accessible to many skaters.
Rollerblade RB 80 vs. The Competition: Why Choose This Urban Warrior?
In the bustling world of urban hard boot skates, the RB 80 often finds itself pitted against strong contenders like the FR Skates FRX 80 and the Powerslide Imperial One 80 or Zoom 80. Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:
Rollerblade RB 80 vs. FR Skates FRX 80
- Fit is King: The RB 80 is widely acknowledged as one of the widest hard boots available, making it the go-to for skaters with broader feet. While the FRX also has a good reputation for a relatively wide fit, some users with truly wide feet still find the FRX uncomfortable around the toe area where the RB 80 excels.
- Mounting Plates: The RB 80 boasts metal mounting plates where the frame attaches to the boot. This is a significant advantage, often leading to better power transfer and greater durability compared to the plastic mounting plates sometimes found on the FRX.
- Straps: The RB 80 typically features a sturdy ratchet strap for its 45-degree buckle, offering a secure and precise fit. The FRX often uses a velcro strap, which some skaters find less secure or prone to wear over time.
- Ventilation: Older Rollerblade Cruiser models (precursors to the RB 80) were known for decent ventilation, a feature that the FRX may sometimes lack.
- Rockering: While both are highly upgradeable with 165mm mounting, the standard FRX frame might offer options to rocker the wheels, which the RB 80's standard frame does not. If rockering is a day-one requirement, this is a point to consider, though an RB 80 can always be upgraded with a rockered frame.
Rollerblade RB 80 vs. Powerslide Imperial One 80 / Zoom 80
- Fit, Fit, Fit: This is the biggest differentiator. The Powerslide Imperial skates, while popular, are generally known for a much narrower fit. If you have wide feet, the Imperial line is almost certainly going to be uncomfortable. The Powerslide Zoom 80 is somewhat wider than the Imperial but still generally narrower than the RB 80. The RB 80 remains the champion for wider foot comfort.
- Boot Feel: Imperials and Zooms often have a slightly stiffer, more "performance-oriented" feel, which can be great for aggressive maneuvers but less forgiving for comfort over long distances, especially for beginners. The RB 80 strikes a fantastic balance between support and plush comfort.
The Verdict: An Unbeatable All-Rounder
The Rollerblade RB 80 Skates truly live up to their "bestseller" tag. They offer an incredible package of comfort, durability, stability, and upgradeability at an excellent price. For beginners seeking a confidence-inspiring start, intermediate skaters looking for a reliable urban companion, or anyone with wider feet searching for that elusive comfortable fit, the RB 80 is a standout choice.
It's not just a skate; it's a trusty steed that will carry you through countless hours of enjoyable rolling, whether you're cruising along East Coast Park or mastering new moves in the city. While the stock wheels might eventually warrant an upgrade, the core skate itself is a solid foundation that will serve you well for years to come.
Shop the Rollerblade RB 80 Skates at Inlinex
Available at Inlinex with free shipping in Singapore. International shipping available worldwide.