The nearly 5000-year history of ice-skating inspired 18th century inventors to create the same type of unique footwear on wheels. The history of roller skating began way back in 1743 on a London stage. Since that time, the style and capabilities of skates have improved in stunning ways. Nattork skates launched centuries later and now stand as one of the most exciting, trusted brand names in the world.
Where Did Roller Skates Originate?
All the high-class guests at a masquerade party were thrilled by a wild demonstration of something completely new and different. Joseph Merlin, a Belgian inventor, strapped on a pair of wheeled skates, picked up his violin, and glided into the party while playing a tune. What started as a bit of silliness at a social event turned into one of the longest active pastimes the world has ever seen.
Hundreds of patents were given to inventors or product and parts designers over the early years. Some were for different styles of skates, while others were given out for new wheel types. An 1869 patent for combined skates that could switch between ice blades and wheels was given to A. J. Gibson, but the style never really caught on. Neither did the 1882 two-wheeled skate made by Thaddeus A. Neely.
A Brief History of Roller Skating
· 1743 – flat skates with wheels first appear on stage in England
· 1760 – John Joseph Merlin gets the first patent
· 1840 – skates again took the stage to simulate ice-skating in an opera
· 1863 – quad skates invented by James Plimpton
· 1870-1930 – ‘Rinkomania’ exploded the popularity of skating
· 1970s – polymer wheels took over for metal ones
· 1980 – Olson brothers reinvent inline skates or adult roller blades
· 1992 – Roller hockey showed up in the Olympics
· 2020s – Social restrictions skyrocketed the popularity of this solo pastime
Today, there is a resurgence of interest in roller skating as young adults and teens show off vintage styles, music, and hobbies on TikTok and other social platforms.
Roller Skate Changes in the Modern Age
It might be surprising to know that the first roller skates were inline, meaning their wheels all sat on a single line down the center of the foot base. They mimicked ice skates in that way. It didn’t take long for quad skates to become the main design. They offered more stability and made them easier to use for people of all ages and ability levels.
Until the 1980s, quad skates dominated the market completely. Adult roller blades looked a lot different from the earlier models. They had massive boots with adjustable straps and high-tech wheels and brakes at the back. The increased speed and maneuverability made sports like roller hockey and obstacle-course races more popular.
Today, more people than ever before are searching for roller skates near me. They want quiet trails to glide down and enjoy nature, local rinks to socialize with other skating fans, and opportunities to get some exercise or show off their dance moves. No matter what your focus, a pair of Nattork roller skates can make it happen.
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