Back in the 1950s, roller skating was known primarily as a hobby or socializing activity. Nowadays, kids roller skate for sport and are active in what is known as X games or alternative sports. As a matter of fact, roller skate designers have revolutionized the general look and feel of the skates. Some designs for kids roller skates are more streamlined for use in competitions and races.
The otherwise laid back reputation of the roller skate has now turned edgy and cool. Tricks and stunts have been tried and perfected. Roller derbies have given way to roller parks complete with platforms and tunnels. Parks are brimming with roller skating enthusiasts, hell bent on perfecting their skills. Sports shops and hobby stores come out with advertising campaigns aimed towards kids and young adults, promoting roller skating as the newest, hippest alternative sports craze after skateboarding.