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Introduction to the game
Looking for a sport with high intensity, physical contact, tactics, and a strong, diverse community? Then roller derby might be the perfect fit for you.
Roller derby is a contact sport performed on roller skates on an oval track. It’s played by two teams of five members each. Derby is a versatile sport with many rules. We’ve created an infographic to cover the most basic rules.
Watch the most important/basic rules here.
Roller derby is a fast-growing sport played by women and men of all ages and sizes worldwide.
“Derby has room for everyone. We need small, fast players, as well as big bulky ones. It’s the perfect mix of raw power, technique, speed, and strategy. But it’s not all about physics. Derby is a social sport, and we’re part of a strong international community,” says Nelle Kjer, player at Aarhus Derby Danes and the Danish national team.
How to get started
Interested in roller derby? To prepare for your first game, you basically need a pair of derby quad skates and some all-round protection gear. Check our great selection of derby skates here.
The Skate Boot
Get agile. Derby has very intense gameplay, and being nimble is key. That’s why most players use a low-cut boot, which provides great flexibility and allows quick responses.
Go light and easy. If you are a beginner, you don't need to choose high-end leather boots. Opt for lightweight synthetic materials. They will fit you right out of the box.
The Wheels
Control is everything. If you are new to derby, we recommend wheels with a hardness around 92A, but it's a personal preference and depends on your weight. Read more about choosing wheels for derby skates here.
Safety First
Protect your body. Roller derby is a contact sport, and you are going to crash and get tackled. Ensure you have maximum cushioning from your protective gear. We recommend sturdy knee pads, high-end elbow pads, and wrist guards. Check out our great selection here.
Watch out for your head. You’ll also need a skate or hockey helmet to protect both the front and the back of your head. Find the helmet that fits you here.
Don't forget your teeth. A small but essential piece of safety gear is a mouthguard to keep your teeth protected—you won’t be allowed to participate in practice or games without it. You’ll find one here.
More
Want to explore further details? There are many aspects to consider when putting a pair of derby skates together, such as which plates and toe stops to use, what cushions to get, and much more. Check out our complete guide to buying roller derby skates.
