1. Work out what sort of skating you would want to get into. Recreational? Speed? Aggressive? Stunt? Hockey?

 

 

A little time spent on the internet researching the differences and reading around will pay off. If you are still unsure then buy recreational skates since these are the most popular. Get comfortable on them and then try other types if you feel inclined.

2. Research different makes; speak to other skaters - they are the best reviewers around.

3. Set a budget, but don't be inflexible. 'You get what you pay for', 'buy cheap, buy twice' and all the other clichés have truth in them. As a rough guide, budget for at least £100 on the skates, and go for skates that have metal chassis because they are faster and more durable. K2 , Rollerblade, Salomon, Fila, Nike all sell quality skates.

4. Don't forget to allow £15-£30 for a set of pads. Wrist and knee pads are the most important but get a full set to start off. Only with the confidence that comes with pads will you push the boundaries that need to be pushed. Falling down is not a problem, it is essential if you are to learn and improve.

5. Ditto a helmet. All good instructors wear them for they know that even the best can fall over, and when you fall on your head it could be all over.

6. Visit a few shops and get a feel for what is available and at what price. Allow yourself an hour or so and take your time. Go on a rainy weekday. Staff with time tend to be more helpful.

7. Look out for deals. Shops often slash the prices of old stock as new comes in.

8. Never buy without test driving. Try on three, four, five, six, as many as you like! Skates will be a house and a car for your feet, so be choosey.

9. Trust your feet - don't go for the cheapest if the more expensive feel better. Comfort is king. Make sure that you have enough room at the toe and that you have no uncomfortable pinches. You will be spending hundreds of hours in these things, so get it right.

10. Having said that comfort is king, also remember that skating is about looking and feeling good, so aim for comfort, looks and performance. With good skates, the three go hand in hand. My personal recommendation is Salomon - great comfort, looks and performance.

11. Take the socks you'll be wearing when skating to the shop. They should be thick to absorb sweat but not so thick that your feet can't breath and melt in the heat.

12. Try both skates on at the same time, and then, if you like, try a left and right from different pairs for easy comparison.

13. When you find a pair you like, keep them on for a while and let your feet do the talking. Don't feel bad about rolling around the shop for half an hour.

14. Pay before you leave the shop. You may be an excellent thief, but you aren't going to get very far as a beginner skater.