Heelys Buying Guide - Sizing, Safety & Wheel Types
Looking to buy Heelys but not sure where to start? Whether you're a parent shopping for your child’s first pair, a teenager ready to upgrade, or just curious about what makes these shoes so popular, this guide has everything you need to know, from how they work to choosing the right size and style.
What Are Heelys?
Heelys are clever shoes with a twist, literally. Each one has a removable wheel built into the heel, so you can walk like normal or glide across flat surfaces just by shifting your weight. Pop the wheels out, and you’ve got a regular pair of trainers.
A Bit of Background
Heelys were invented in 1999 by Roger Adams, who took the concept of inline skating and simplified it into a single-wheeled shoe. The product gained rapid popularity in the early 2000s, especially among children and teens who enjoyed the freedom and fun of rolling through schools, malls, and parks. Since then, Heelys have evolved in design and safety, with a variety of models catering to all ages and skill levels.
Key Benefits:
- Walk or roll with one pair of shoes
- Great for improving balance and coordination
- Available for kids, teens, and adults
- Easy to learn, fun to master
One-Wheel vs Two-Wheel Heelys: Which is Right for You?
Understanding the difference between one-wheel and two-wheel Heelys is crucial to making the right choice, especially for beginners.
One-Wheel Heelys
One-wheel Heelys feature a single wheel in the center of each shoe’s heel. These are the standard model and offer greater manoeuvrability, allowing for tighter turns, faster gliding, and trick potential.
These Heelys are ideal for:
- Riders with a good sense of balance
- Intermediate to advanced users
- Older children, teens, and adults
Because they have only one wheel, they require more core stability and balance to ride. However, once mastered, one-wheel Heelys offer the most freedom and performance.
Two-Wheel Heelys
Two-wheel Heelys are designed with beginner riders in mind. They place two wheels in the heel of each shoe (one in front of the other), providing a broader base for better stability.
These are best for:
- First-time users
- Younger children
- Riders building confidence
Two-wheel Heelys are easier to balance on and require less coordination, making them perfect for learning. Some models allow you to remove the front wheel once the user gains experience, effectively converting them into one-wheel Heelys and supporting skill progression.
Heelys Size Guide
Getting the right size is essential for both comfort and safety. Ill-fitting Heelys can lead to blisters, loss of control, or foot pain, especially during longer sessions.
How Do Heelys Fit?
Heelys now generally fit true to size according to updated sizing guidance. For half sizes, it is recommended to go up by half a size to ensure a comfortable fit.
Sizing Tips:
- Choose your regular UK shoe size.
- If you're a half size, round up to the next available size.
- For growing children, going up one size can allow room to grow when paired with thicker socks or an insole.
Heelys Size Conversion Table (UK Sizing)
|
Usual Shoe Size (UK) |
Recommended Heelys Size |
|
Child 9 |
Child 9 or 10 |
|
Child 11 |
Child 11 or 12 |
|
UK 1 |
UK 1 |
|
UK 2.5 |
UK 3 |
|
UK 5 |
UK 5 |
|
UK 6.5 |
UK 7 |
Always check specific size charts provided by the retailer or manufacturer, as some models may fit slightly differently due to design or materials used.
Try Before You Roll
Whenever possible, have the user try on the shoes with the socks they will be wearing while skating. The fit should be snug around the heel and midfoot, but allow natural toe movement. Too much space can cause instability when rolling.
Safety & Maintenance
Safety First:
Riding Heelys safely is all about preparation and awareness. New users should always wear protective gear until they are confident in their ability to balance and stop.
Recommended Gear:
Make sure to practice in safe, open areas away from traffic, steep hills, or busy pavements.
Maintenance Tips:
- Clean the wheels and outsoles regularly, especially after outdoor use.
- Check that wheels are securely attached before each session.
- Inspect shoes periodically for signs of wear or structural damage.
- Store your Heelys in a cool, dry place to preserve materials and wheel integrity.
- Only use replacement wheels approved by the manufacturer for safety and compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Heelys legal in the UK?
Yes. Heelys are perfectly legal to buy and use in the UK. However, users should be mindful of their environment and avoid skating in areas where it’s restricted.
Are Heelys suitable for adults?
Yes, many models are available up to UK size 12, making them suitable for teens and adults who want to join in the fun or revisit their childhood.
Can the wheels be removed?
Most Heelys are designed with removable wheels, allowing you to convert them into standard walking shoes when needed.
Do I need safety gear to use Heelys?
While not mandatory, safety gear is strongly recommended, especially for children and beginners. It significantly reduces the risk of injury.
How do I clean and maintain my Heelys?
Use a damp cloth to wipe down the uppers and wheels. Check that wheels are securely in place before each use, and avoid submerging the shoes in water.
What surfaces are best for using Heelys?
Stick to smooth, dry surfaces like indoor floors, paved paths, or tennis courts. Avoid gravel, grass, and wet areas to prevent slipping or damage to the wheels.
Summary
Heelys are a fun, versatile option for kids and adults alike, combining the benefits of walking shoes with the thrill of skating. Whether you choose one-wheel for performance or two-wheel for beginner stability, it's easy to find a pair that fits your needs. Thanks to updated sizing guidance, you can now confidently select your normal shoe size, and with safety tips in hand, you’ll be rolling with confidence in no time.
