What Makes a Better Roller Derby Boot?
All of the boots we recommend for derby are either leather or vinyl. Generally speaking, high-end leather skates are superior in most ways, besides the ethical ones for those that prefer cows still mooing. But in the lower price ranges, that’s not so much the case – in many ways, vinyl boots are superior to similarly priced leather – especially for rookie derby skaters. Of course, not all vinyl boot-wearers are rookies. We’re often asked to help skaters find vegan (non-leather) skates that are appropriate for what we do. And actually, vinyl skates do have some features that make them an attractive choice. FIT Vinyl is flexible and forgiving – especially compared to leather skates in the same price range. If you’re not absolutely sure about what size you wear, vinyl can be a good compromise. Vinyl skates don’t break in – they are not going to mold to your feet like leather will. The truth is that by the time your feet start changing the fit of those skates, the vinyl is breaking down. D
