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Best Wheel Shoes – 2024 Buying Guide
The original wheel shoes were designed by Heelys, and they made for an excellent way to get around but also to get children to exercise. Today, they are popular with adults as well, bringing a fun touch to menial everyday tasks.
The list below looks at the best wheel shoes currently available for purchase. Furthermore, you'll find a list of criteria you should consider before shopping in order to make the best possible purchase.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Features
Decide on the wheel size, number and whether or not you need them to be retractable.
Wheels – the defining feature of Heelys – can come in different numbers, sizes, and with different qualities.
All wheels are made of high-density PU (polyurethane), which has a myriad of benefits: this material is abrasion-resistant, oil-resistant, tear-resistant and can withstand a wide range of different weather conditions. PU wheels are strong and resilient, and wear well over time, meaning they will last longer and won’t require replacements very often.
Some brands make shoes with retractable wheels – usually outfitted with a button on the shoe itself that you can press to retract or pop out the wheels. Others, such as the original Heelys brand, don’t offer the option of retracting the wheels inside the sole. Rather, wheels on Heelys are removable, and if your kid gets tired of rolling around, you can take out the wheels manually and fill in the wheel cavity with a specially designed plug.
Wheel sizes depend on the manufacturer. Some offer only one, standard wheel size, but there are companies that make bigger wheels for more stability and smaller wheels for easier turns and manoeuvring.
Lastly, in terms of the number of wheels in the shoe – there are those with one wheel and there are shoes with two wheels.
Two wheels are recommended for beginners. They provide good balance and are a more stable choice for someone who has never used Heelys before. One-wheeled shoes are designed for older children and those with more experience in wheeling around. These enable the rider to turn easily and to speed up as much as they want.
Safety Hazards
Secure closures, good grip, and designs made specifically for performing tricks will keep your young one safe during their ride.
When you know your child will be spending some time gliding around at higher speeds, it is natural that your first concern is their safety. And Heelys manufacturers do recommend wearing protective gear when using this type of footwear.
But when it comes to the safety and security the shoes themselves provide, there are some we can consider when looking to buy a good pair of wheel shoes.
Closures: Keeping the foot snug and secure inside the design is imperative. Most wheelie shoes come with standard lace-up closures which help your child adjust the fit to their liking. The laces should be tight enough for the foot not to slip out of the shoe or slide around inside it, but not so tight as to cut off circulation or cause any kind of discomfort.
Another type of closure is velcro. Velcro straps are convenient for children who have not yet mastered the skill of tying shoelaces since they are quick and easy to use.
Additionally, some shoes have both velcro and lace closures to double up on the security and ensure that their Heelys aren't left behind when your child rolls around the neighbourhood.
Grip: You may think that grip is not that important since your kid will be using wheels and not the actual soles of the shoe, but that is not the case. The grip is crucial in preventing slipping during the ride, and to ensure that your child can properly break when they want to. Sneakers with wheels that have a rubber sole with visible grip designs etched into it have a strong grip that will reduce the risk of stumbling or falling.
This might not fall under the category of safety, but it is vital to keep in mind that not all shoes are suitable for tricks that children sometimes perform.
For example, for sliding along curbs and rails, the shoes with wheels on the bottom should have grind plates in their design to help the child execute the trick without any problems or safety risks. If your kid plans to learn all these neat skateboarding stunts, it is best to buy the footwear that has all the necessary features for that.
Materials
Choose what type of material would suit your child best based on where and how often they will wear these shoes.
You'll find that shoes with wheels come in a huge variety, as you'd expect from regular sneakers. This is a great advantage, not only because you can choose what will work best for you, but also because you can opt for different models you'll be able to wear throughout the year.
Style
Your kid's personal taste will decide what type of style they're most comfortable wearing on a regular basis.
For convenience, and because children rarely require dress shoes, all sneakers with wheels are designed as sneakers.
Sneakers are versatile, go well with any type of outfit, and are comfortable. Depending on the gender of the child, they can be styled either for girls or for boys, in a wide selection of colors, patterns and added decorations, such as tassels, charms, and soles that light up upon impact.
Like most sneakers, the ones with wheels also come in low top and high top versions. Low tops are comfortable and offer better mobility, while the high tops are more secure, providing support for the ankle and reducing the risk of sprains or serious injury.
The uppers of these sneakers can be constructed out of canvas or leather, or even suede. Companies usually aim for materials that are breathable, flexible, and durable enough to withstand hours of rolling around, and maybe even a few kicks and tricks children like to perform. The price of the shoe largely depends on the choice of materials.
Comfort
Padding on all sides and thick soles increase the comfort levels of a design.
To accommodate both regular use and rolling around on wheels, it is natural that wheeled shoes are constructed a bit differently and that they offer a level of comfort normal shoes perhaps don’t.
In order to ensure that the wearer doesn’t feel the wheels during the ride, the soles of wheeled shoes are thicker and padded, to provide comfort over longer periods of time.
In fact, wheel shoes are usually padded on all sides. The added cushioning provides protection against injury in case the wearer falls, and also offers a higher level of stability as well. The padding is particularly useful when kids have to press down on their heels to break.
When it comes to comfort, it is important to mention that wheeled shoes which are made out of canvas materials and with little padding can get uncomfortable pretty quickly. They are better suited for more experienced riders.
10 Best Shoes With Wheels in 2020
1. Heelys Bolt Plus X2
The moment the Bolt Plus X2 sneakers were released, they became an instant bestseller. With its low top silhouette, wide skate body, and show-stopping colorway, it looks like a sneaker from another dimension. It comes with a vulcanized outsole for durability, an elastic lace closure and a power strap across the instep for double security. It also has a light-up feature that is activated by motion.
The Bolt Plus X2 is unlike any of the other designs on this list. It has everything you’d expect a design with wheels to have - a sturdy closure system, a tough outsole, an interesting style, and not only one, but two wheels, lined up one after another! The double closure is especially handy, as the laces help adjust the fit of the sneaker, and the strap across the top locks the foot down even more inside the design. Vulcanized rubber which the outsole is made of means that these shoes with pop out wheels are resistant to slipping, to wear and tear, as well as to chemicals and oils!
This pair of shoes is one that is perfect for beginner skaters - it has the security, it has the ability to withstand the abuse, and the double wheels provide stability which one-wheel options lack. The Heelys Bolt Plus X2 is widely sought-after for a reason, and you definitely won’t regret investing your money into this solid choice.
2. Heelys Voyager
Bearing the same name like a Star Trek spaceship, the Heelys Voyager is a little cosmic, a little futuristic in its design. This isn’t only due to its large, bulky silhouette, but also thanks to the fact that it has reflective parts on its upper, ones that glow in the dark shoes and make it look positively alienesque! This is a unisex choice, meaning that you can get it both for a boy or a girl, and they will be equally thrilled with the surprise!
The Voyager is, as all other Heelys designs, made from synthetic materials. It bears a large logo on the side and eye-catching reflective parts and has a full lace-up closure to ensure your young one’s security inside the sneaker. We appreciate the round-toe classic skater silhouette which provides ample space for the toes and the simple and straightforward smooth finish. This pair of wheel shoes comes with faster, low-profile wheels that require some getting used to, as well as ABEC 5 bearings for a smooth ride.
The Heelys Voyager mimics the style of Vans, in that it is a design that would definitely find its place in a skate park. However, seeing as the Voyager comes with wheels of its own, you can be sure that your kid will love every second of speeding through the neighbourhood in these cool retractable roller shoes!
3. Heelys Propel 2.0
The Heelys Propel 2.0 is an all-time customer favorite when it comes to shoes with wheels. This is a fashionable, smooth toe classic silhouette with one wheel at the back. It has a lightweight outsole and its upper is made out of synthetic nubuck. Regardless of the color combination, all Heelys Propel 2.0 has an oversized logo with an embroidered outline on the side. The wheel is low profile, and they boast ABEC 5 bearings for the smoothest of rides.
The Heelys Propel 2.0 has a trendy silhouette that is always in style. It carries that relaxed, laid-back vibe that all kids love, and its multicolor designs are sure to wow everyone. ABEC is a special rating system from the Annular Bearing Engineering Council. The higher the rating, the more precise and smooth the ride is. Since the ratings are 1, 3, 5 and 7, you can tell that the Heelys Propel 2.0 wheel shoes promise a nice and easy glide.
The Heelys Propel 2.0 is popular because of its simple and yet stylish design, and because it offers a steady ride, no muss, no fuss. For the price it comes at it is definitely worth it, especially if you’re not looking for any special features and are just interested in a solid, standard pair of wheelie shoes.
4. Heelys Launch
Now here is something a little more subdued. The Heelys Launch does come with its fair share of leopard prints and fun patterns, but for the most part, this sneaker is somewhat serious in design. Simple, minimalistic, and absolutely school appropriate (without the wheels, of course). The Heelys Launch has a cushioned collar, a lacing system with durable plastic eyelets and a midsole stripe for a pop of color. It also boasts a mesh lining and a wear-and-tear-resistant brake pad. The rubber outsole is constructed with Heelys Ninja Grip Tread for a superior grip.
The design of these sneakers with wheels is specifically meant for children who love spending their time on the skateboard. They can go from walking, running, skateboarding to rolling without changing their footwear. Regardless of what your kid is doing, the Heelys Launch will ensure that they are safe. If they’re doing skateboarding tricks, the insoles and striped midsoles are there to absorb high impacts, and if they are rolling downtown, the abrasion-resistant brake pads provide protection and safety.
Sure, the Heelys Launch doesn’t come with the glitter and shine of most other models, but it is a comfortable, secure pair of wheeled shoes for a kid who loves skateboarding. Even some adults have tried these on and had an absolute blast rolling around the grocery stores and markets.
5. Heelys Player
One of the two knit designs in this guide, the Player from Heelys is everything your young one will ever need when it comes to sleek, stylish, sporty footwear. One of the brand’s absolute bestsellers, it is easy to see why everyone is so infatuation with this option. It looks like a cute, everyday sneaker and it comes with a wheel in the back, as well as comfort and safety features to keep your kid rolling for hours on end!
The Player has an upper constructed of engineered knit, which moves along with the child’s foot. It is flexible and comfy, and it also provides ample breathability to reduce the risk of sweating. The lace closure allows for complete fit adjustment, while the outsole is made from EVA for shock-absorption and even more cushioned comfort. The wheel on the Player is low profile and this design comes with ABEC 5 bearings for a safe ride.
This clean, athletic look is really what all children - and most adults - prefer for their casual wear. It is easy to take the player to a birthday party, to grandma’s house, and even to school if you decide to take off the wheel at any point. Enjoy all the cute sporty goodness from this modern design of shoes with wheels for adults!
6. Heelys Hustle
If you’re a fan of the Converse Chuck Taylor look, you’ll definitely want to get these shoes. Not only do they utilize one of the most iconic silhouettes in footwear, but they also come with an upper that’s blue, white and red, and will appeal to any patriot out there. It can be purchased in both children’s and adult sizes, so you can pick up a pair for the whole family.
The canvas upper of the Hustle is one of the more breathable options when it comes to wheel shoes. Not only is canvas naturally breathable, but the mesh lining promotes airflow and moisture management, so you won’t have to worry about bad odours or sweaty feet, even when you’ve been practising tricks all day. Added comfort is provided by padding in the collar and tongue, as well as the adjustable lacing system.
This model features the Heelys Ninja Grip Tread which combines a herringbone pattern in the front and back with a hexagonal grip pattern in the midfoot section. Additionally, the brake pad is abrasion resistant, so you can count on these being a safe option on all types of floors (though you probably shouldn’t go crazy in them in school hallways).
The ABEC 1 bearings work great with the flat wheel type. These shoes do cost slightly more than other models listed in this article, but the great design more than makes up for it.
7. Heelys Split
The Heelys Split is nothing short of stunning with its extreme-shine metallic color. Whether silver, gold, or blue, it is designed to gleam and impress and we admit that we are a little in love with it. These gorgeous wheelie shoes come with a dual-density lightweight outsole, a smooth classic toe silhouette and a split pattern upper. They have one wheel in the heel, and their chrome or metallic uppers are made of synthetic leather. If your child loves shiny footwear and shoes like Heelys, these are a perfect choice!
Heelys has a special formulation for their outsole, which consists of dual-density rubber - a material which is twice as durable and twice as sturdy, but which doesn’t lose any of its lightweight qualities and is still perfect for rolling around. The Heelys Split is not for the faint of heart. These shoes with wheels reflect light and demand attention, and you can be sure that your kid will get a ton of compliments on them as they glide through the neighborhood in their new kicks.
The Heelys Split is a great option, one which is comfortable and long-lasting, and which will take your child’s breath away with its polished chrome design.
8. Heelys Force
At first glance, you’d think that this is a pair of shoes from Nike or Adidas or any other world-famous sportswear brand. However, it comes as a pleasant surprise to learn that this sporty, modern option comes with wheels in the outsole, and is, in fact, a Heelys model! The Force is a sneaker similar to any other, one that comes in a variety of color and pattern combinations - even metallic chrome ones! - but with the added benefit of being constructed for ultimate zooming down the streets!
The upper of the Force is made from synthetic leather and mesh. The mesh is there to help with breathability and to provide the necessary airflow so that your kid’s feet don’t sweat as they take on the sidewalks. The lace-up closure on the front is fully adjustable, which means that you or your child can tighten or loosen the design for perfect security and lockdown. The wheels on the Force are low profile, for faster turns and speedy flybys, and the design is equipped with ABEC 5 bearings.
The Heelys Force is a stylish choice of shoes with wheels that every kid wants to have. It is laid-back and athletic, and yet fashionable enough to be worn with both skirts and jeans, shorts and leggings. We’re in love with its countless color options, and we know that your young one will fall in love with it, too!
9. Heelys Dual Up X2
Aside from being so cute we can barely contain our squeals, the Heelys Dual Up X2 is also a great design for a rolling beginner. It comes with two wheels at the back for added stability and features not only a lace-up closure but also a velcro strap across the top. This lovely pair of wheelie shoes have a durable rubber outsole, a lightweight EVA midsole, and a 3D logo on the side. If your child is new to this world and is maybe a bit hesitant to try, these retractable wheel shoes are a perfect choice.
The reason two wheels are useful is that rolling with only one in the back can be a bit tricky to master. The Heelys Dual Up X2 offers more support and stability and reduces the risk of falling, while at the same time encouraging your kid to have confidence in their rolling. There can never be enough support for someone who is just starting out in their skating. The Dual Up X2 comes not only with a lace-up closure but also with a power strap at the top that ensures a snug, secure fit.
The Heelys Dual Up X2 is an option with outstanding comfort and security, perfectly designed for a beginner, and we feel like its cost is absolutely worth it for that extra dose of safety when you’re just starting to get the hang of using wheelie shoes.
10. Heelys Navigator
Another new design that parts ways from the bulky, skater-like silhouettes Heelys used to be all about, the Navigator is a fine representative of urban style, sporty chic, a cool sneaker that your kid will love to take out for a ride. It has a knit upper, a jogger type outsole and is, believe it or not, a slip-on construction! Your young one just has to slide their feet inside a pair of these Heelys with retractable wheels and they’ll be ready to go!
The Navigator is comfortable to wear and gentle on the skin thanks to its knit materials. It won’t constrict the foot or limit its motions so that your kid can perform all kinds of tricks on wheels if they so desire. The outsole is a jogger-type, meaning it has as much cushioning and shock-absorption as would a regular running type sneaker. This slip-on design comes with one low profile wheel and it has ABEC 5 bearings, like most Heelys, for an easy glide.
The smooth toe Navigator is a great option to choose for your little fashionista who is following the latest trends. The cable detailing in the front, as well as its eye-catching color combos, will make the Navigator the talk of any occasion, not least because your young one will wow everyone with their rolling skills!
Sources
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