blader

Blader is a term used to describe a person who participates in blading, the practice of inline skating. A blader may perform a range of activities from street and park tricks to speed skating, trail skating, or artistic routines. The term appears most often in North American and European skate communities, and in broader contexts some writers use “rollerblader” or simply “skater.”

Most bladers use inline skates with four or five wheels. Equipment choices vary by discipline: aggressive skates have reinforced shells and grind plates for tricks on rails; speed skates emphasize light weight and longer frames for greater velocity; recreational or artistic skates balance comfort and control. Protective gear such as helmets, wrist guards, knee and elbow pads is common due to the risk of falls.

Blading grew with the wider adoption of inline skating across the late 20th century. Today, blading communities organize in parks, skate centers, and online, sharing techniques, videos, and competitions. The term “blader” highlights the identity of a person who skates on inline equipment, but many people simply call themselves skaters. Regional slang and preferences vary, with some groups using “blading” to refer to specific urban styles and tricks.