Choosing inline skates for kids can be very difficult. You want to buy the right size so that your child will enjoy the sport. Yet, you know that it's only a matter of time before they'll out grow them, so you do not want to spend too much buying inline skates. Then, there is the cost of buying safety equipment such as helmets, wrist and elbow guards, and knee pads. What are the options for kids' inline skates?

Adjustable inline skates for kids have a lined boot (no shoes required) and can adjust between multiple sizes with a push of a button or a simple lever adjustment. The advantage of these skates is that you can buy them and they will fit for 3-5 shoe sizes. You can buy the inexpensive brands found at WalMart or Target. The name brand companies also offer inline skates for kids and are offered online and in sporting stores. It is important to have children try on the skates to make sure they feel comfortable, because uncomfortable skates may go unused after a week or so.

Fisher Price offers a line of over-the-shoe skates for preschoolers and elementary kids called “Grow-With-Me.” These skates might remind you of the metal adjustable quad skates you had when you were little. Your child will put the skates over shoes. The skates are adjustable between 6 full shoe sizes. They also have 3 different stages. The first stage allows children to walk in their skates. Stage 2 is set up so that the skater can go forward and the wheels are locked to prevent the child from going backward. Stage 3 is set up so that kids can skate normally.

Convertible inline skates offer the skater the choice between having the wheels set up like trikes or inline. Parents can help the kids switch between the two configurations. Convertible skates come in over-the-shoe and adjustable options, making this style a win-win situation as long as they are comfortable.

My kids have each of these skate types. We used the over-the-shoe skates for our kids when they were preschool age and early elementary. As they grew, we bought convertible inline skates with lined boots. Most of my kids liked to have them in the trike formation for the entire time they used them. Then, we went with an adjustable inline skate that allows them to go forward or backward.

Which would I recommend? They are each excellent for the different stages that children go through. I think it is important to get skates that are appropriate for their skill levels so that they aren't hindered by skates meant for younger kids, or injured by skates that are too advanced.