Did you know? Raleigh is home to roller-skate brand Angels Skates, which launched this past May after orders from the company's Etsy store started surging.

At the beginning of pandemic-related lockdowns, Google Trends saw an influx in roller-skating related searches, and by the end of summer, growing demand created a widespread roller-skate shortage. For many, roller-skating has remained a beloved pastime since its peak in the 1970s and 1980s — but the sport has also recently found its way into the mainstream once again.

Bonus: Raleigh is a great city to live in if you want to take up skating. Here’s what you need to know to hit the ground rolling in no time:

History

Roller-skating and roller rinks have a long history in the US, often attributed to

Cash's Roller Rink, c. 1950 | Photo via Durham Public Library

the development of hip-hop + the progression of the Civil Rights Movement. Before you lace up, we recommend you check out some resources that will provide crucial historical and cultural context to the sport.

Getting your skates and equipment

Experienced skaters agree that picking the right pair of skates and protective equipment is critical. Get yours from local maker Angels Skates — or shop other popular brands such as Impala Rollerskates, Moxi Skates, and Riedell.

How to skate

Modern roller-skating isn’t just about cruising around a rink anymore. Skaters of Chicks in Bowls (CIB) Raleigh are using skate parks to grind rails, go down ramps, and do tricks. Competitive teams like the Carolina Roller Derby are taking things to the extreme as well, but no matter your level of interest, we found some tutorials so you can start practicing.

Where to skate

Rinks have recently reopened at reduced capacity, but many people are

Cloud White skates with custom yellow laces | Photo via @angels.skates

choosing to skate outside. ProTip: If you’re a beginner, hills may be a challenge so we recommend scouting any outdoor areas before skating there.

Indoor rinks
📍Jellybeans Super Skate Center | 1120 Buck Jones Road
📍United Skates of Raleigh | 2901 Trawick Road

Skate parks
📍Marsh Creek Skate Park | 3050 N. New Hope Road
📍Rodgers Family Skate Plaza | 1290 Ambergate Station, Apex
📍Chapel Hill Skate Park | 100 Northern Park Drive, Chapel Hill

Paved trails
📍Lake Raleigh Trail | NC State Centennial Campus
📍American Tobacco Trail | 1305 White Oak Church Road, Apex
📍Baileywick Trail | 9501 Baileywick Road
📍Beaver Creek Greenway | 1704 Patterson Grove Road, Apex

Poll

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Contributed by Xenna Smith.