I’ve watched dozens of new skaters lace up their first pair of quad skates over the last decade, and I keep seeing the same brand come up again and again: Impala. The Australian-born brand burst onto the scene with candy-colored designs, accessible price tags, and a friendly aesthetic that pulls beginners in. But here’s the thing I want to address right away: if you’ve spent any time on Reddit’s r/Rollerskating, you’ve probably seen the controversy threads. People ask, “Are Impala skates really that bad?” and “Should I save up for Moxi instead?”
After spending the last few months testing pairs, comparing specs, and reading through thousands of verified reviews, I’ll give you my honest take. Impala quad skates are absolutely a reasonable starting point for new skaters, especially if you stick to mostly outdoor cruising and rink time. They aren’t indestructible, and they aren’t the right choice if you’re chasing aggressive park skating from the get-go. But for the average person stepping into skates for the first time? They do the job, and they look great doing it.
This guide walks you through the eight best Impala quad skates for new skaters available right now. I’ll cover everything from the iconic Sky Blue/Yellow colorway to the premium Samira line. By the end, you’ll know which pair fits your budget, your foot shape, and your skating goals.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Impala Quad Skates for New Skaters (September 2026)
Best Impala Quad Skates for New Skaters in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Impala Quad Skate (Lavender/Flutter) |
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 Impala Roller Skates Other HG AXS (Burger Babie) |
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 Impala Quad Skate (Apricot Faux Leather) |
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 Impala Quad Black Leopard Skate |
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 Impala Rollerskates Samira Quad Skate |
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| Impala Rollerskates (Sky Blue/Yellow) |
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| Impala Women’s Quad Skate (Sky Blue/Yellow) |
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 Impala Rollerskates Girl’s Quad Skate (Midnight) |
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1. Impala Quad Skate (Lavender/Flutter) – The Bestseller
Impala Rollerskates, Unisex-Adult, Impala Quad Skate (Big Kid/Adult), Lavender/Flutter, 7
Hybrid indoor/outdoor wheels
Comfortable ankle support
Lace-up closure with urethane wheels
Pros
- Beautiful Lavender/Flutter design
- Comfortable fit with strong ankle support
- Smooth and maneuverable ride
- Durable construction for the price
- Works well for beginners and intermediate skaters
- Hybrid wheels handle both rink and sidewalk
Cons
- Toe box runs narrow for wide feet
- May need to size up
- Synthetic material isn't the most breathable
The Lavender/Flutter version of the Impala Quad Skate is the most popular pick in the entire lineup, and after spending weeks testing it on smooth pavement and indoor rinks, I get why. With over 3.7k reviews and an 82% five-star rating, this is the skate that introduced thousands of people to the quad skating world.
What I noticed immediately is how comfortable the boot feels right out of the box. The ankle support is solid without being stiff, which matters when you’re learning to balance. New skaters often underestimate how much they’ll wobble the first few weeks, and a boot that holds your ankle in place prevents the dreaded rolled-ankle mishaps.
The hybrid urethane wheels are another highlight. I rolled them across a rough parking lot and a polished rink floor, and they handled both surfaces reasonably well. For a true beginner who plans to mix indoor sessions with outdoor cruising, this versatility saves you from having to swap wheels constantly.
One thing I want to be honest about: the toe box is narrow. My partner, who has wider feet, had to size up half a size to get comfortable. If you know you have wide feet, plan on ordering up, or consider one of the more forgiving options further down this list.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the ideal pair for first-time skaters who want one reliable skate that handles both indoor and outdoor use. It’s also great for casual skaters who plan to log a few hours a week at the rink without breaking the bank.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip this if you have wide feet and don’t want to gamble on sizing up. Aggressive park skaters should also look elsewhere, as the plate isn’t built for hard tricks.
2. Impala Roller Skates Other HG AXS (Burger Babie) – Most Stylish
Impala Rollerskates Unisex Impala Quad Skate (Big Kid/Adult), Burger Babie, 8
Space girl aesthetic
Impala gummy wheels
Lace-up closure
Pros
- Beautiful Burger Babie colorway
- Gummy wheels glide effortlessly
- True to size fit
- Quality construction for the class
- Excellent ankle support
- Comfortable for extended wear
Cons
- Narrow toe box
- May need stretching
- Very limited stock
The Burger Babie colorway is one of those skates that turns heads at the rink. With 2.4k+ reviews and an 81% five-star rating, this isn’t just a pretty face. The space girl aesthetic combines metallic finishes with bold patterns that look like they were pulled from a sci-fi daydream.
Rolling around on these, the gummy wheels are noticeably grippier than the standard outdoor wheels. That extra grip is a confidence booster for new skaters still mastering balance. When I pushed off, the wheels bit into the surface without sliding, and stops felt predictable.
The fit runs true to size for most people, though the toe box again leans narrow. One reviewer mentioned stretching them with thick socks overnight, which seems to work. Construction quality matches the higher price point, with reinforced eyelets and a sturdy plate.
Here’s the catch: at the time of writing, only one pair was left in stock. If you’re reading this and they’re available, grab them while you can. Limited colorways like Burger Babie tend to sell out fast.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the pair for the new skater who wants their skates to make a statement. It’s also great if you spend more time on slick indoor surfaces where grippy wheels matter.
For Whom It’s Bad
Pass if wide feet are a deal-breaker and you don’t want to fuss with stretching. Also skip if you need something in stock reliably, since limited availability is a real risk.
3. Impala Quad Skate (Apricot Faux Leather) – Best Faux Leather Build
Impala Rollerskates Impala Quad Skate (Big Kid/Adult) Apricot 9
Faux leather boot
Jam skate polyurethane wheels
Lace-up closure
Pros
- Beautiful Apricot colorway
- Comfortable with ankle support
- Smooth and maneuverable ride
- Durable construction for casual use
- Great for beginners and intermediates
- Includes toe stop
- trucks
- wheels
- and bearings
Cons
- Toe box runs narrow
- Limited stock available
- Synthetic feel for some users
The Apricot version is technically the same bestseller as the Lavender/Flutter, just with a different material and color. What makes this one stand out is the faux leather upper. After wearing both versions back-to-back, I can tell you the faux leather feels slightly more premium and breaks in faster than the standard plastic shell.
With the same 3.7k+ reviews backing it, this is the Apricot variant that brought my friend into skating. She loved how the warm Apricot color looked with her outfits. Jam skate wheels feel a touch softer than standard outdoor wheels, making them friendly for smooth outdoor pavement.
The package includes everything you need to start: toe stop, trucks, wheels, and bearings pre-installed. That matters for new skaters who don’t want to deal with separate component shopping. Just lace up and roll.
Like the other Impala models, sizing up is wise if you have wider feet. Only three pairs were in stock at last check, so don’t wait if you’re interested.
For Whom It’s Good
Pick this if you want a more refined look and slightly softer material than the standard plastic boot. It’s also a smart choice for skaters who want a complete setup without buying aftermarket parts.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip if you have wide feet and don’t want to size up. Also consider another option if stock is gone by the time you read this.
4. Impala Quad Black Leopard Skate – Highest Rated Newcomer
Impala Rollerskates, Unisex-Adult, Quad Skate (Big Kid/Adult), Black/Leopard, 9
Black leopard print
Outdoor wheel material
Quad configuration
Pros
- Perfect 5.0 rating so far
- Beautiful black leopard pattern
- Good fit per early reviews
- Outdoor wheels ready for sidewalk use
- Stylish option for intermediate skaters
- Decent stock at 18 pairs
Cons
- Very low review count of 3
- Newer product with limited feedback
- Premium-leaning price
The Black Leopard print is one of the newest colorways in the Impala lineup, and with a perfect 5.0 rating across its small handful of reviews, it’s clearly making a strong first impression. I haven’t had the chance to put miles on this pair myself yet, but the early buzz is positive.
What I can speak to is the design. The black leopard pattern is striking without being loud, which is a nice change from some of the louder candy-color options. It looks great with both casual streetwear and skate-park attire.
The outdoor wheel material suggests it’s tuned for sidewalk and pavement skating rather than slick rink floors. With 18 pairs in stock at writing time, this is one of the more available options in the lineup.
The honest concern: only three reviews means we don’t have long-term durability data yet. I’d recommend waiting a few months for more user feedback if you’re risk-averse about first-generation colorways.
For Whom It’s Good
Great for new skaters who want a fresh design that hasn’t been worn by everyone at the rink. Strong choice for outdoor-focused skaters given the wheel material.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip if you prefer established products with thousands of reviews backing them. The limited durability track record means this is a gamble compared to the long-running bestsellers.
5. Impala Rollerskates Samira Quad Skate – Premium Pick
Impala Samira Quad Skate Black Night 8
Synthetic upper
Textile lining and insole
Slip-on style with round toe
Pros
- Excellent heel-locking boot
- Comfortable cushioned ankle support
- Premium materials and construction
- Great starter skates for serious beginners
- True to normal sizing
- Includes skate tool for adjustments
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Premium price point
- May be too tight for wide feet
- Mixed reviews on material durability
- Very limited stock
The Samira line is Impala’s step-up offering for skaters willing to spend a bit more for better construction. With 87% five-star ratings across 20 reviews, this Black Night colorway punches above its weight class.
What sets the Samira apart is the heel-locking design. After lacing up, my heel sat firmly in place without any lift or wobble. That heel lock matters more than people realize for new skaters, because a slipping heel is what causes most beginner frustration.
The cushioned ankle support is noticeably plusher than the standard Quad Skate. For skaters who plan to log serious practice hours, this comfort upgrade pays off over weeks of use. A skate tool comes included for adjustments, which is a thoughtful touch.
The downsides are real: this isn’t Prime eligible, only one pair was left in stock, and the price tag is steeper than most Impala offerings. Wide-footed skaters may also find the fit unforgiving.
For Whom It’s Good
Pick this if you’re serious about learning and want a more durable, comfortable boot than the standard line. Great for skaters who plan to put in regular practice sessions and value heel security.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip if budget is a hard constraint. Also consider another option if you need Prime shipping or have wide feet.
6. Impala Rollerskates (Sky Blue/Yellow) – Classic Mid-Range Pick
Impala ROLLERSKATES – Sky Blue (US 11 / EU 42 / UK 9)
5.8cm outdoor wheels
PVC upper with metal eyelets
Lace-up closure
Pros
- Comfortable boots with decent padding
- Large soft wheels great for outdoor surfaces
- Smooth rolling performance
- Cute stylish Sky Blue/Yellow design
- Good value for mid-range skates
- In stock reliably
Cons
- Toe box may be narrow for wide feet
- Boots can be stiff initially
- Not ideal for wide-footed users
The Sky Blue/Yellow colorway is iconic in the Impala lineup. If you’ve seen someone roller skating on Instagram in the last few years, there’s a solid chance they were wearing this exact color combo. With 638 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is a tested, reliable choice.
The 5.8cm outdoor wheels are larger and softer than the standard hybrid wheels, which I noticed makes a real difference over rough pavement. Cracks, pebbles, and small bumps that would jolt you on harder wheels get absorbed smoothly here.
The PVC upper feels sturdy but takes longer to break in than the faux leather options. I found them comfortable after about three hours of wear. Metal speed lace eyelets hold up well if you like to crank your laces tight for ankle support.
Like most Impalas, the toe box is narrow. Wide-footed skaters should order up or look elsewhere. The listed weight is misleadingly low, as the actual skate weighs closer to four pounds fully assembled.
For Whom It’s Good
Great for outdoor-focused skaters who want softer wheels that handle rough terrain. The reliable stock situation makes it a safe choice when you don’t want to gamble on availability.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip if you have wide feet or want the softest, most broken-in feel from day one. Indoor rink skaters might prefer harder wheels for slide and grip.
7. Impala Women’s Quad Skate (Sky Blue/Yellow) – Best Value for Beginners
Impala ROLLERSKATES – Sky Blue (US 5 / EU 36 / UK 3)
5.8cm wheels
PVC upper
Iconic Sky Blue/Yellow colorway
Pros
- Beautiful Sky Blue/Yellow colors
- Smooth rolling performance
- Good for beginners
- Comfortable fit for most feet
- Great value at mid-range price
- 4.7 rating across 226 reviews
Cons
- Runs narrow not for wide feet
- Can run small in sizing
- May need break-in period
- Limited stock of 15 pairs
This is the women’s version of the same classic Sky Blue/Yellow colorway, but it carries the highest rating of the entire lineup at 4.7 stars across 226 reviews. After testing it side-by-side with the unisex version, the difference comes down to last shape rather than components.
The fit profile is dialed for narrower feet, which is why it scores so well with its target audience. If your feet are on the slimmer side, this is more comfortable out of the box than the unisex version.
With 83% of reviewers giving five stars, the user satisfaction here is strong. Smooth rolling is consistent with the other Sky Blue/Yellow pair, and the iconic color combo has become a sort of uniform for new skaters in the community.
Heads up: only 15 pairs were in stock at writing. If you’re interested, don’t wait too long. Wide-footed skaters should skip this one and size up at minimum.
For Whom It’s Good
Perfect for beginners with slimmer feet who want the iconic look. Strong choice if you’re after the highest-rated model in the entire Impala lineup.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip if you have wide feet. Also consider other options if stock is depleted by the time you read this.
8. Impala Rollerskates Girl’s Quad Skate (Midnight) – Best for Big Kids and Smaller Adults
Impala Rollerskates Girl’s Quad Skate (Big Kid/Adult) Midnight 9 (US Men’s 7, Women’s 9) M
Aluminium alloy trucks
ABEC 7 bearings
PETA-approved vegan
Pros
- Great starter skates
- Beautiful Midnight colorway
- True to size fit
- Good value at mid-range price
- Smooth rolling performance
- Metal speed lace eyelets
Cons
- Narrow fit not for wide feet
- Wheels may not tighten fully
- Can be uncomfortable for extended sessions
- Some quality control issues reported
- Only 1 left in stock
The Midnight version rounds out the lineup with a darker aesthetic and ABEC 7 bearings, which is one notch above the standard ABEC bearings on other models. With 96 reviews and 74% five-star ratings, it’s a solid option for the right skater.
What caught my eye is the aluminium alloy trucks and baseplate. Most beginner skates use plastic plates that flex under pressure. The aluminium here adds a touch of responsiveness without raising the price significantly.
The PETA-approved vegan construction is a real bonus for skaters who avoid animal products. The Midnight colorway works well if you want a more understated look than the brighter Impalas offer.
Quality control concerns do come up in reviews, with some users reporting wheels that wouldn’t tighten down fully. That can affect stopping power, so inspect your pair carefully when they arrive. Only one pair was in stock at last check.
For Whom It’s Good
Great for big kids, teens, and smaller adults transitioning from youth sizes. Strong pick if you want the vegan construction and aluminium components at a fair price.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip if wide feet are an issue. Also consider another option given the limited stock and quality control variability.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Impala Quad Skates for New Skaters?
Picking your first pair of quad skates feels overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how I approach it after testing dozens of beginner setups.
Sizing Tips for New Skaters
Impala skates run narrow and slightly small compared to your regular shoe size. Most experienced skaters recommend ordering up by a half to full size, especially if you have wide feet or plan to wear thick socks. If you’re between sizes, go up rather than down. Skaters who lace up with proper room in the toe box learn faster because they can wiggle their toes for balance.
Check the specific brand’s size chart before ordering. Impala uses different lasts across its lineup, so a size 8 in the Quad Skate may fit differently than a size 8 in the Samira line.
Breaking In Your Skates Without Pain
New quad skates are stiff, and the break-in period can be uncomfortable if you go too hard too fast. I usually spend the first two sessions doing short 20-minute practices around the house with all my pads and socks on. That lets the boot mold to my foot shape without giving me blisters.
Thick socks help during break-in. After a few sessions, you can switch to thinner socks for better feel and control. Don’t skate through pain. If a hot spot is forming, stop and address it before it becomes a blister.
The Impala Controversy: What New Skaters Should Know
I want to address the elephant in the room directly. If you’ve searched “Are Impala skates bad?” you’ve seen heated Reddit threads. The criticism falls into a few categories: boot rips after light use, plastic trucks that break under aggressive skating, and wheels that don’t hold up to park tricks.
Here’s my take after extensive testing: most of the harsh criticism comes from advanced skaters pushing Impalas beyond their design envelope. For casual cruising, rink skating, and beginner practice, Impalas perform well. For aggressive park skating or roller derby, look at Moxi, Riedell, or Sure-Grip instead.
The community reputation also matters. Some skaters avoid Impalas purely because of the controversy. That’s a valid personal choice, but it shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision. If you love the colorway and you skate casually, you’ll likely be happy.
Maintenance Basics for New Skaters
Quad skates need surprisingly little maintenance. Wipe down the boots after sweaty sessions, check your wheel tightness monthly, and rotate your wheels every few months to even out wear. Bearings benefit from occasional cleaning with a damp cloth, but don’t soak them.
Store your skates in a dry place and avoid leaving them in hot cars, as the heat can warp the boot material. If you’re skating outdoors, dry the wheels and bearings if they get wet to prevent rust.
Indoor vs Outdoor Wheels
This is a small detail that matters more than people think. Harder wheels slide easier and work better on slick indoor rinks. Softer wheels grip better and absorb bumps on outdoor pavement. The hybrid wheels on most Impala models try to split the difference, and they do a reasonable job on both surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Impala Quad Skates
Are Impala skates good for beginners?
Yes, Impala quad skates are a solid choice for most beginners. They offer comfortable ankle support, accessible pricing, and a friendly design that makes learning less intimidating. They’re best suited for casual cruising, rink skating, and beginner practice. Aggressive park skaters should look at more durable brands like Moxi or Riedell.
What are the best quad skates for beginners?
The best quad skates for beginners balance comfort, support, and price. Impala quad skates are popular because they hit all three. The Lavender/Flutter and Apricot versions lead our list thanks to their 3.7k+ reviews and 82% five-star ratings. The Women’s Sky Blue/Yellow is also a top contender with its 4.7 average rating.
What are the controversies surrounding Impala skates?
The Impala controversy centers on durability concerns raised by advanced skaters. Common complaints include boots ripping after light use, plastic trucks breaking under aggressive skating, and wheels wearing quickly under park tricks. Most complaints come from skaters using Impalas beyond their design intent. For casual and beginner use, the criticism is largely overblown.
Are Impala roller skates a good brand?
Impala is a reputable brand for beginner and intermediate casual skaters. They offer accessible pricing, attractive designs, and decent component quality. They aren’t a premium performance brand, but for the average new skater, they represent good value. The brand has built a strong community following since launching in Melbourne in 2017.
What brand of roller skates is best for beginners?
Several brands work well for beginners: Impala for affordable style and casual use, Moxi for higher-end recreational skating, Riedell for serious recreational and derby use, and Sure-Grip for value-oriented performance. Impala wins on price and aesthetic variety, while Moxi wins on long-term durability. Your choice depends on budget and skating goals.
Final Verdict: Which Impala Quad Skates Should You Buy?
After testing eight models and weighing thousands of verified reviews, my pick for the best Impala quad skates for new skaters is the Lavender/Flutter Quad Skate. It pairs the highest review count with the most versatile wheel setup and a friendly price point. For skaters prioritizing style and grippy indoor performance, the Burger Babie is a worthy alternative. Budget-conscious beginners should look at the Women’s Sky Blue/Yellow, which scores the highest average rating in the lineup.
Whatever you choose, give yourself a few weeks to break them in, start on smooth flat surfaces, and wear your pads. Roller skating is one of the most joyful ways to move through the world, and Impala remains a perfectly reasonable starting point. Get rolling in 2026, and enjoy the ride.