When the sun comes out, getting from point A to point B doesn’t have to be a boring event. Sure, cars and public transit do the job just fine, but what are those compared to gliding through the air on your own two feet? Roller skating has risen in popularity over the last several years, especially as a result of the recent pandemic. It’s easy to see why—it’s something that can be practiced both in a solitary manner, as well as in a group setting while maintaining a safe distance. Now, as we steer towards a post-pandemic world, roller skating has only continued to blossom as a recreational sport that boosts endorphins and brings people together.
One look at any New York City park in the summer will reveal plentiful roller skaters flamboyantly twirling in bright leotards and legwarmers. Roller skates weren’t always so prominent, though. In fact, the first recorded use of roller skates took place in 1743 during a theater production in which actors attached wheels to their shoes to mimic a scene of ice skating. After that, inventor John Joseph Merlin designed the first official pair of roller skates in 1760, albeit neglected to add any brakes to the contraption. While skating through a party playing a violin, he crashed into a mirror, broke his instrument and sustained several injuries. What a champ.
From there, the idea of roller skates was planted into many intrepid inventors’ heads. Quad skates were conceived by French inventor M. Petitbled, who also established the New York Roller Skating Association as a way for people to skate freely while also being part of a community. Today, the activity still exists as a hallmark of counterculture and individualism. Two summers ago, me and my best friend vowed we’d learn how to roller skate, and each bought a pair off eBay intending to go out and teach ourselves. Life has postponed this excursion, but trust that it’s still on the summer bucketlist, along with me learning how to ride a bike (yes, I’m exposing myself here).
Just as tattoos are often symbolic of going against the grain, roller skating is fueled by the same sentiments. In a way, the two sort of go hand-in-hand. That’s our way of saying, check out some of these badass roller skating tattoos that are awaiting you at your next appointment. Not only do they add a funky pop of color to your collection, but they’re a perfect way to connect with others who are just as passionate about the activity. And as much as tattoos hurt, we’re certain that you roller skate enthusiasts are always down to roll with the punches.
