- Helmet + pads option
Blue Quad Skates
KSh5,499KSh 6,299
Inline vs Quad Skates: Which Should Your Child Start On?
Both types of skates are fun and both are good exercise. The difference is how much balance they ask for. So the right choice depends less on the skates and more on your child.
Are inline or quad skates better for kids?
Quad skates are better for most young children and complete beginners, because two rows of wheels are steadier at low speed. Inline skates are better for children with good balance who want speed and smooth turns. In our shop, both start at KSh 5,499.
Updated by The Skates for Kids Kenya team
Popular picks in each style
Two quad sets for first-timers and two inline sets for confident skaters.
Inline and quad skates side by side
| Quad skates | Inline skates | |
|---|---|---|
| Wheels | 4 wheels in 2 rows | 4 wheels in 1 row |
| Standing still | Very stable | Wobbly at first |
| Speed | Slower, steady | Faster, longer glide |
| Turning | Shorter, sharper turns | Smooth, flowing turns |
| Stopping | Plough stop, easy at low speed | Plough stop or T-stop |
| Best starting age | About 4 and up | About 5 or 6 and up |
| Best for | Beginners and young children | Children with good balance |
| Our price | KSh 5,499, or KSh 5,899 with gear | KSh 5,499 to 8,499 |
When quad skates are the better choice
Choose quad skates for kids if any of these describe your child:
- They have never been on skates or a skateboard.
- They are under about 6 years old.
- They get frustrated or scared quickly when they wobble.
- They have small feet. Our quads start at EU 26, while our inline skates start at EU 31.
Quad skates let a nervous child stand still, look around and feel safe. That confidence is what gets them gliding.
When inline skates are the better choice
Choose inline skates for kids if your child:
- Rides a bicycle without stabilisers.
- Has skated on quads and wants to go faster.
- Plays a sport that builds balance, such as football or dance.
- Will skate on longer paved paths where a smooth glide helps.
If your child is in between, start on quad skates. Once they glide, stop and turn with confidence, the move to inline is quick.
Can a child switch later?
Yes, and many do. Skills like bending the knees, pushing to the side and looking ahead carry over from one type to the other. A child who learns on quads usually needs only a few sessions to feel at home on inline skates.
Because all our skates adjust, the first pair can also pass down to a younger brother or sister. So starting on quads costs you nothing in the long run.
Frequently asked questions
Is it easier to learn on quad skates or inline skates?
It is easier to learn on quad skates for most children, because the wide base keeps them steady while they stand and take their first glides.
Are inline skates faster than quad skates?
Inline skates are faster than quad skates for most children, because the single row of wheels rolls further with each push and carries speed better.
Which is safer for kids, inline or quad skates?
Quad skates are usually safer for beginners, since they wobble less at low speed. For any type, a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads and wrist guards matter far more than the wheels.
Do quad skates or inline skates cost more?
Quad skates and inline skates cost the same to start in our shop, at KSh 5,499. The highest-priced skates are the LED inline sets at KSh 8,499.
Which type is better for skating on rough surfaces?
Neither type is good on rough surfaces like murram or gravel. On slightly uneven concrete, inline skates with larger wheels roll over small bumps more easily, while quads feel steadier.
Can my child use quad skates at a skating rink?
Your child can use quad skates at a skating rink, and many rinks see plenty of quads. Inline skates work at rinks too.
What age should a child switch from quad to inline skates?
A child can switch from quad to inline skates when they glide, turn and stop with confidence, often from about age 6 or 7. Skill matters more than age.
Which do you recommend for a 6-year-old beginner?
For a 6-year-old beginner, we recommend quad skates with the helmet and pads option, such as the Pink Princess or blue quads. They cost KSh 5,899 with the gear and start at EU 26.
Related guides
Still deciding?
Tell us your child's age, shoe size and whether they have skated before. We will recommend quad or inline skates on WhatsApp.