Bladers

Bladers are individuals who participate in inline skating, a sport and recreation that uses skates with wheels arranged in a single line. Blading encompasses a range of disciplines and styles, including aggressive inline skating (tricks on rails and ledges), speed skating (long-distance or sprint racing on tracks or roads), artistic inline skating (dance and precise figures with music), and slalom skating (weaving through cones). The term blading is widely used within the community to refer to the activity itself and the practitioners.

Historically, inline skating gained mainstream popularity in the late 20th century with the widespread availability of consumer inline skates. The term blading developed as skaters adopted a craft-oriented identity around tricks, speed, and performance. Over time, diverse subcultures emerged, from street-based trick skating to organized speed skating circuits and indoor rink performances. While the sport experienced fluctuations in mainstream visibility, blading remains active through local clubs, skate parks, and international competitions that recognize multiple disciplines.

Equipment and technique vary by discipline but share common elements. Essential gear includes inline skates, protective equipment such as helmets, wrist guards, knee pads, and ankle supports, and appropriate clothing. Techniques range from balance and edge control to precise grinds, pushes, jumps, and slides. Training emphasizes safety, progressive skill development, and awareness of shared public spaces.

Community and culture around blading emphasize accessibility, mentorship, and mutual respect. Skaters commonly organize locally, participate in events, and contribute to the development of standards and safety practices within the sport.