I am new to Roller Derby and recently purchased Riedell Dart Rollerskates.

I am interested in getting some outdoor wheels to practice. What would you recommend?

You know we wheely love answering your questions, so here's what we wrote back to Sarah:

Thanks for reaching out!

Are you looking for wheels to practice roller derby specific skills, or general recreational/cardio skating outdoors?

For derby-type practice on smooth asphalt or concrete, you want a wheel with a nicely defined lip, like the Atom Poison Savants. 

If you are wanting to get extra skating time in, building up your endurance and general skating skills, there are lots of options. Generally, the rougher the terrain the softer and larger you want the wheel - the 65mm Radar Energy wheels and the SureGrip Boardwalks are my top recommendations for a 'roll over almost anything' wheel - they'll roll over manhole covers and twigs and things. Wheels with a lower number durometer (starting at 78A) are softer, with a higher number durometer (up to 101+), harder. The big soft wheels are going to feel squishier and slower - I, personally, love the extra workout, but if you are looking for faster outdoor wheels, go a little harder in durometer, like those Savants I mentioned above, or the SureGrip Aerobics (also available in single colours, but the rainbow set are a Seaside exclusive you won't find anywhere else).

Our most economical wheels for outdoors are the SureGrip Oasis, followed by the FOMO light up wheels (actually the best deal, as they come with bearings). 

Of course, there are always specialty wheels available - wheels that are more specific for the skate park, or for dance on outdoor surfaces (those cute little Radar Crushes are perfect for a little kanikani on the waterfront, but would be a bit of a pain for cruising longer distances).

What did our customer decide on??

Sarah went with a set of SureGrip Aerobics - she's looking for a little speed with her roll, and doesn't need those wheels for practicing derby-specific skills. 

Happy rolling, Sarah!!