Heelys are a really fun way for kids, teens and young adults to get around and get a bit of exercise, too. The versatility of these sneakers means that you don’t need to buy a pair of roller skates in addition to your shoes.
There are a wide range of colors and styles to choose from, so there’s something to satisfy most tastes. If you like your sneakers to be vibrant, the Heelys Propel 2.0 Skate Shoe is an excellent choice. The bright laces and logo stand out in contrast to the black of the shoes.
What to know before you buy Heelys
What are Heelys?
Heelys is the brand name and also the term used to refer to skate shoes in general. Heelys are a cross between regular sneakers and rollerblades. They have one or two wheels at the heel of each shoe. Users can roll on the wheels to glide effortlessly down the sidewalk. They’re popular for recreational use and as a way to get from place to place.
Why choose Heelys shoes?
Heelys was established in 1999 and they were the first brand to create wheeled shoes. As such, they’re the most popular and well-respected brand in this industry. While other companies now produce sneakers with wheels, you might not get the same high quality or features that you do with the Heelys brand.
Using Heelys safely
Heelys are skate shoes. Therefore, it’s important to wear the same protective equipment as you would when using rollerblades or a skateboard — don’t forget to don a helmet, wrist guards, knee pads and elbow pads before you glide.
Heelys features
One wheel vs. two wheels
Heelys are sold with either one or two wheels in each shoe. While one-wheel sneakers tend to be faster and easier to turn, two-wheel options provide far more stability. If you’re new to skating, it’s best to get a pair of two-wheel shoes to begin with. This will help you to balance when you’re starting out. Once you’ve honed your skills, you can simply remove one of the wheels and enjoy better maneuverability.
Removable wheels
All Heelys’ products have removable wheels, so you can take them out and wear them as normal sneakers, too. The wheels are very straightforward to put in and remove. To take them out, simply use your thumbs to apply pressure to one side of the wheel until the axle pops out of the bracket. To insert the wheel, just align the axle and the bracket and give it a gentle tap into position. Always check that the wheel is properly inserted and spins freely before starting to skate.
Heelys plugs
All Heelys shoes come with heel plugs. These are small inserts that you can put into the wheel well when not using the skating feature. They also come with a small tool to help you take the heel plug out when you want to put the wheels back in.
Sizes
Heelys are sold in a range of sizes to suit adults, teenagers and kids. Their official website states that sizes run slightly small. If you’re between sizes, it’s a good idea to size up.
Replacement wheels
Heelys sells replacement wheels without the need to buy new sneakers. This is convenient if one of your wheels becomes damaged, or if you just fancy a change of color or style. You can find the size of the wheels you need by looking in the wheel well of your Heelys. Wheels are sold in small, medium and large sizes.
Lights
Some kids’ Heelys feature lights in the logo or around the base of the shoe. Lighted shoes are a popular choice for younger children. There’s usually an on/off button in the tongue.
Heelys cost
Heelys typically retail at around $50-$80, depending on the style and size that you choose. Replacement wheels are usually $15 per pair.
Heelys FAQ
Can you walk in Heelys?
A. While you can certainly take a few steps in Heelys when the wheels are in, it’s not recommended to try and walk for extended periods of time. Firstly, it’s rather uncomfortable. Secondly, it could negatively affect your gait. The wheels are very simple to take out, so it’s best to do that if you plan on walking.
How do you stop in Heelys?
A. Stopping safely is a very important skill to learn. When you’re rolling along, simply lean back so that the heel of your shoes, the part behind the wheel, touches the ground. This friction will cause you to slow down and come to a controlled stop.
Which Heelys should I get?
Best of the best Heelys
Heelys Propel 2.0 Skate Shoe: available at Amazon
Our take: These classic shoes work well for both big kids and little kids.
What we like: These black sneakers come in a variety of styles with vibrant laces to add a pop of color. They’re very comfortable to wear, with or without the wheels.
What we dislike: The sizes tend to run a bit small.
Best bang for your buck Heelys
Heelys Men’s Voyager Tennis Shoe: available at Amazon
Our take: An excellent choice for adults who like to skate.
What we like: Sold in men’s sizes nine to 13, these low-top sneakers come in at a very reasonable price. The wide bootstraps look stylish and make it easier to pull the sneakers on, especially if you don’t like to undo the laces.
What we dislike: Unfortunately, they aren’t available in a wide range of colors.
Honorable mention Heelys
Heelys Kids’ Dual Up X2 Sneaker: available at Amazon
Our take: These are a good first pair of wheeled shoes for beginners.
What we like: These sneakers are easier to balance on due to their two-wheel design. They feature laces and a front strap to provide a snug fit. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors and designs.
What we dislike: They’re somewhat expensive compared to similar products.
Catherine Bushen is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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