Roller skating was popular in the United States from the 1930s to 1950s, then again in the 1970s when associated with disco music and roller discos. During the 1990s, inline outdoor roller skating became popular. As of 2006, the 1970s roller disco craze has largely discontinued, although many roller discos from that era remain open and successful today.
Roller Skating’s Resurgence
Roller skating saw a spike in popularity during the pandemic. In May 2020, the manufacturer Rollerblade enjoyed its largest shipping month in 20 years as people sought creative ways to exercise outdoors.
Origins and Social Impact
Roller skating’s origins date back to the 18th-century Belgian inventor John Joseph Merlin, although skates were used in stage performances earlier. Groups exploring closed roads and meeting regularly to skate city streets remain popular social activities among skating enthusiasts today.