Vandal Rookie Package

The first time I put on rental roller skates, I knew I was hooked. I did a lot of reading and research since I knew next to nothing. As the other reviewer said, I opted to skip the R3's, too, because so many people said they were out of those skates and on to new ones within months. I don't regret it. I ordered a 7.5(usually wear a 8.5 to 9 in women's). The perfect amount of room. As soon as I put these on, it was like I'd been skating for months instead of just a week and like they were made for my feet. I use them almost everyday casually and high intensity training and hardly have any discomfort ever. There were no blisters or bruises the first few weeks of use. I love the wheels as I'm very light and I seem to get a nice bit of grip and slide. The toesavers are great, too! I had read somewhere that they had ripped a hole in a girl's boot and so I check constantly, but not even a scratch on the toes of my boots. All the gear fit great(I measured according to Rollergirlskates suggestions). Also, Rollergirlskates.com was wonderful to work with and very accommodating!

Everyone goes with the R3s as their beginning skate but I knew I would love derby and as a big girl blocker wanted a skate more substantial that was fully upgradable. I love this boot. I have not had any foot problems while those on the R3s are having cramps and fit issues. I wear a 9.5 sometimes 10 women's so opted for a Skate Size 8. Now that I have been skating all out several times a week at maximum velocity, there are other skates I covet more (Antik anyone?) but this as a beginner's package is worth the extra money and blows the R3 package away for comfort and longevity. One of my toe protectors did rip the second time skating (lame) but I am hard on my gear. The helmet Sweatsaver liner is wonderful and a must-have although I do suggest wearing a bandana anyway. The plates are decent, the toe stops serviceable, the 187 pads are thick and sturdy and well put together. The wheels are fine for beginners but the first thing you will upgrade are the wheels once you know what you like. Add the t-shirt (which I didn't get with package btw) and this is a great value for great beginner equipment.