Overview
The Riedell R3 Skate is a perfect combination of performance and value for juniors and beginners to skating and has subsequently entrenched itself as one of the most popular skates for those two groups. The R3 boot is made from tough, durable vinyl that holds its shape well and can take the beatings beginners will throw its way. The Thrust Plate is lightweight but lacks the rigidity needed for better performance - often times this is the primary reason R3 skaters want to upgrade after a year or so. Cayman Wheels are an entry-level speed wheel that will be fine for rink skates and your first derby practices but like the plate, higher quality should be sought as you advance your skating level.
| Discipline | Derby |
|---|---|
| Level of Play | Beginner, Casual |
| Customization | Not Available |
Specifications
| Boot | Riedell R3 |
| Boot Material | Vinyl |
| Outsole Material | Plastic |
| Liner Material | Cloth |
| Closures | Laces, Velcro Strap |
| Vegan | Yes |
| Heat Moldable | No |
| Customizable | No |
| Plate | PowerDyne Thrust |
| Plate Material | Nylon |
| Truck Material | Die Cast Aluminum |
| Kingpin Angle | 15° |
| Cushions | 14mm Barrels (x2) |
| Wheels | Radar Cayman |
| Wheel Size | 62x43mm |
| Wheel Hardness | 95A |
| Bearings | ABEC-5 |
| Bearing Size | 608 Standard |
| Toe Stop | PowerDyne Adjustable Black |
| Toe Stop Type | Adjustable |
| Stem Size | 5/8" |
| Lock Type | Nut & Washer |
Videos
Sizing Chart
| GENERAL SIZING GUIDELINES | |
|---|---|
| Skate sizing can differ from skate to skate and it is generally very different from shoe sizing. We strongly recommend using foot length to determine your skate size. Detailed instructions on how to measure your feet can be found in our Learning Center by Clicking Here. | |
| Riedell R3 Skates fit similar to a sneaker. They are heavily padded and narrow at the toes. |
| Skate Size | Inches | Millimeters | EU Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 7-13/16 | 198 | 31-32 |
| 2 | 8-1/8 | 206 | 33-34 |
| 3 | 8-1/2 | 216 | 35-36 |
| 4 | 8-13/16 | 224 | 36-37 |
| 5 | 9-1/8 | 232 | 37-38 |
| 6 | 9-1/2 | 241 | 38-39 |
| 7 | 9-13/16 | 249 | 39-40 |
| 8 | 10-1/8 | 257 | 40-41 |
| 9 | 10-1/2 | 267 | 41-42 |
| 10 | 10-13/16 | 275 | 42-43 |
| 11 | 11-1/8 | 283 | 44-45 |
| 12 | 11-1/2 | 292 | 46 |
| 13 | 11-13/16 | 300 | 47 |
| 14 | 12-1/8 | 308 | 48 |
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Customer Reviews
Boots are great, wheels are notThese boots are great introductory skates, which we knew going in because these are the same skates my daughter had before she outgrew them. Unfortunately, I didn't pay close enough attention to what kind of wheels they came with and those did not do well on the floor she skates on, so I had to go buy new wheels in addition to buying new skates, so that was kind of annoying
Good skate for casual skatingIf you are dipping a toe into roller derby this skate is inexpensive and a good skate to learn how to skate in. Once you graduate into competitive skating it has many issues. The boot is glued not stitched. The sole and plate are plastic, and the flex in both will reduce the power delivered from your stride. If you are a competitive skater or plan to be, choose something with leather or nicer composite boot stitched to leather or higher quality sole. Plates are a can of worms not suitable for a review but something that doesn't flex. Do the research and ask a vet before buying.
Great starter skateThis same skate was my first ever skate back when I first started Roller Derby more than 10 years ago. I've had a different skate in between but I ordered this model again because I've found it to be the comfiest. Perfect for starting out skating.
First derby skatesThese are my first pair of derby skates. Overall they've been pretty good so far. My only issue has been the tongues occasionally sliding to the side while skating which is a bit annoying. But otherwise, they are very comfortable and of good quality.
Comfy, basic, economical, do-it-all skatesPROS:
-VERY well-padded.
-Fits like a sneaker (I wear a women's size 8 and ordered the Reidell size 7. I have fairly wide feet and these fit well).
-Hard-wearing/durable.
-Easy care. Just wipe with a damp cloth.
-Not the cheapest, not the most expensive.
-Truly multipurpose. I've used these for Roller Derby, trail skating, AND rink skating.
-Shipped FAST.
-Riedell was very cooperative in getting me the skates I needed. Just ask the reps for help.
CONS:
-Won't mold to feet like leather will.
-Fairly heavy
Overall super pleased. This is my second pair. My first pair lasted almost 10 years, even with super strenuous derby use!! I tried 6 pairs of other skates before ordering these again.
Derby fresh meatThis is my first pair of quad skates ever, they are SO comfortable. Ideal for our outdoor derby rink in the Fresh Meat program where I'm training. Comfortable boot. Ordered a size down from a typical shoe size. The toe stops are small and I'll be upgrading soon, but the hard wheels and secure laces have been great to learn on.
Previous Feedback
Comments: Very comfy and a great beginner skate! I'm not necessarily a beginner and I've worked them pretty hard. One thing is the toe stop that I use mostly with my dominant foot tends to unscrew no matter how tight I tighten it, but I was already planning to change out toe stops, wheels, bearings,etc. Riedell is the best in the biz, hands down!
From:Anonymous, 12/26/20
Comments:I love these skates!!!! I am a junior and I have been playing for West Coast Derby Knockouts for 5 months now and I love these skates. They are amazing when jamming AND blocking they are also amazing when jumping. I did (and would highly recommend) upgrading the wheels and toe stop. The wheels I upgraded to were Radar Halo wheels with 99A hardness (thats what works for the floor my team and I are skating on). The toe stops for me were to small so I got gumball toe stops and I love them. There is no slide when stopping and its great for running on. But overall the skate is amazing I couldn't ask for a better skate (in my opinion) I would highly recommend getting these skates!!! (The bearings come very dry so when you get them I would add a lubricant)
From:"Honey Badger" - Ventura, California
Comments:I decided to buy this for my first pair of skates and I have to admit I'm impressed, these might not be the best skates out there, I know that, but I'm really happy that I bought these ones, it is worth what I spent for.
From:Rosario - Mexico City, Mexico
Comments: R3's are probably one of the best skates out there, can't go wrong with these, own and use them several times a week
From: Anonymous, 12/4/20
Comments: Amazing Indoor Rink Skates, I Love The Entire Silhouette From The Velcro Straps, Inside Wheel Art & Fit. I Would Recommend These Skates To Anyone Because When I'm Skating I Feel Like I'm Floating/Gliding.
From: Anonymous, 12/15/20
Comments: These skates are strong and easy to ride
From: Mitzine, 12/1/21