Skate rentals at Kelowna's Stuart Park have been a hit, and now Kevin Laflamme is rolling out more skating for the summer.
Laflamme opted for the more retro-style four-wheel roller skates instead of the more contemporary rollerblades.
He admits they may look like something new to some younger people.
"I imagine there's some that haven't experienced it," he said, "but have probably seen it somewhere along the line."
He believes the return of roller derby events has piqued interest in the old-school roller skates, and they've always been a favourite for Laflamme.
"I used to teach back in the Boardwalk Days in the late 70s," he said, referencing the once popular roller skating venue.
Skates rent for $20/hr.
Tuesday nights will be special.
A group will be coming out with a D.J. and a disco ball.
"They have the lights and the music blaring, and they provide free lessons for everybody," said Laflamme.
Things were pretty slow on day one of the roller skating at Stuart Park, but Laflamme isn't worried.
"Tourism starts in mid-June, later-June," he said. "It should slowly pick up once people get familiar and hear about it."
The advantage of the roller skates to the ice skates rented in winter is that they're not confined to the rink area.
People are invited to take them for a spin along the waterfront.
"I'm pretty confident it's going to be just as strong as the skating," said Laflamme.
It's not required, but he recommends people rent helmets and pads along with the skates.
"They do come in handy if you fall," he said. "I'd strongly recommend it."
The safety gear is very reasonable.
Helmets are just $2, and the rest of the gear rents for $3.
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