An in-line skate is a type of roller skate where the wheels are arranged in a single straight line down the middle of the boot, rather than in a square pattern like traditional roller skates. Because all the wheels line up one behind the other (usually three to five wheels per skate), in-line skates roll faster and turn more smoothly than old-fashioned roller skates.

In-line skating became hugely popular in the 1990s, when people called it rollerblading after the Rollerblade brand that made it famous. You'll see in-line skaters gliding through parks, racing down bike paths, or practicing tricks at skate parks. The straight-line wheel design mimics the feel of ice skating, which is why hockey players often use in-line skates to practice during summer months when ice rinks aren't available.

Learning to in-line skate takes practice and balance, and beginners usually wear helmets and pads until they feel confident. Once you get the hang of it, in-line skating becomes an excellent way to exercise, explore your neighborhood, or just enjoy the sensation of rolling smoothly along the pavement.