It’s official—Montreal’s streets are alive with the rhythmic glide of wheels. From neighbourhood rinks to alleyway meetups, roller skating has made a vibrant comeback. Whether you're drawn to the nostalgic charm of retro skates or the dynamic energy of roller dance, the city offers a plethora of spots to roll, learn, and connect. Here's your guide to embracing the summer on quad wheels.

​

Where to Buy Your Skates

​

Nestled at the corner of Beaubien and Molson, Low Life Skateshop is a haven for roller enthusiasts. The spacious two-level store boasts an impressive selection, from entry-level to high-end skates, and every accessory you could dream of. Expect to be greeted at the door by the tail-wagging Store Manager Robert, a Very Good Boy.

​

For beginners, Audrey, the ever-patient clerk, stresses that comfort must come first. The sizing for roller skates is unconventional, and it’s important to try them on in-store to find the perfect fit, as opposed to the temptingly cheap options from Dollskill.com.

​

Her go-to starter recommendations? The Impala or Moxi Beach Bunny—comfortable, budget-friendly ($135–$200), and cute as hell.

​

“Be sure to get a tool, too,” she adds. “You need to know your gear.” This handy item allows you to adjust your trucks and bearings to your liking or make minor repairs when you're miles from the shop and knee-deep in your new obsession.

​

Protective gear is a must—and yes, we mean the full dorky trifecta: knee, elbow, and wrist guards, plus a helmet. The full getup is often required for beginner classes because not only is falling inevitable, but you will be taught how to fall—more on that later.

​

Low Life also offers one-, three-, and seven-day rentals ($25, $40, $65, respectively)—perfect for out-of-towners or the commitment-shy. Group rates are available for birthdays, bachelorettes, or that very quirky team-building activity your office HR keeps dreaming about.

​

Beginner Starter Kit Breakdown

Skates: Impala, $135
Protective Pads: Saver Series 3-Pack, $60
Helmet: Triple 8 Certified Sweatsaver, $90
Adjustable Tool: Impala Rollerskate Y Tool, $18
Total Investment: $303 plus tax

​

Where to Learn

​

Founded by Chloé “Kozmic Skater” Seyrès, four-time world champion of Freestyle and Speed Slalom, Skatespace is an inclusive, joy-fueled space offering a range of classes at the Centre Communautaire de Loisirs Sainte-Catherine d’Alexandrie in the Village.

​

From the foundational Roller Skills 1 to advanced Roller Dance 3—and even a cheeky hybrid of striptease and skating called Skatelesque—the programming is welcoming, bilingual, and rooted in community. Instructors like KT Kaboom (a member of the Team Canada Roller Derby Squad), Joy Rider (an award-winning international burlesque dancer who teaches Skatelesque), and Kozmic herself guide students through techniques, building agility and confidence—all to a soundtrack that keeps wheels turning and spirits high.

​

Course Offerings

Roller Skills 1–3: Ideal for first-timers, focusing on basic skating techniques.
Roller Dance 1–3: Progressive dance classes building from foundational moves to advanced choreography.
Skatelesque: A fusion of burlesque and skating, exploring self-expression and confidence.

Slalom: An advanced, trick-based practice involving speed and agility through an obstacle course of cones.
Open Jams: Weekly sessions for skaters of all levels to practice and connect.
Outdoor Workshops: Seasonal 90-minute sessions covering urban skating, slalom, and more.

​

Having just wrapped up Roller Skills 1, I can confidently say: it works. I came in wobbly and unsure, and six sessions later, I can now skate forward, backward, and stop, turn with confidence, do a little dance, and—most importantly—fall without breaking my neck. Émilie, my instructor, was the kind of teacher you hope for: clear, encouraging, and always ready to break down complex movements or answer questions about gear, technique, or the subtle imbalance of a left glute.

​

A six-session course runs $140 plus tax, but the best value is the Tuesday Circuit—a mix of Skills or Dance 1 and a half-jam—for just $160 plus tax.

​

Where to Skate

​

Montreal’s urban sprawl offers a handful of hidden gems for those looking to practice their skills outdoors. Smooth pavement is a must, and while dedicated roller rinks are rare, here are three local favourites vetted by the city’s quad crowd:

​

1. Arbre Soleil by Parc Frédéric-Back

Tucked away, far from the city core, this shaded concrete pad is a skater’s oasis. It’s quiet, surrounded by greenery, and blessed with a water fountain and power outlets—perfect for solo sessions or a full-day hang.

​

2. Willibrord Bleu Blanc, behind Verdun Metro

This community space is a known meetup point, and there’s usually music playing, someone practicing tricks, and always a friendly face on wheels. Beware of pre-scheduled activities, and check the community calendar before heading over.

​

3. Parc des Vétérans, by the Jacques-Cartier on-ramp

It might sound unlikely, but this under-the-radar spot is often empty, with a smooth surface and no one around to see you fall—a secret skate utopia.

 

Explore More

For a comprehensive list of skating spots, check out this custom Google Map curated by local skaters.
Note: Not all locations are officially designated for roller skating. Be sure to check the notes for everything from best surfaces to which corners stay sunny all afternoon.