The Mystery Tool From Your Childhood: A Roller Skate Key
If you grew up between the 1950s and 1970s, you might recognize this curious little object. At first glance, it looks like a bottle opener or a small woodworking tool. However, its true purpose is far more nostalgic—and fun.
Back then, roller skates weren’t the lightweight plastic versions we know today. Instead, they featured a metal base and leather straps, which had to be fastened securely over your shoes.
So, where does that strange metal tool fit in? It’s actually a roller skate key. Every pair of roller skates from that era came with one. Kids used it to tighten or loosen the skates for the perfect fit. Many wore their key on a string around their neck. Lose it, and you often had no choice but to buy a new pair of skates.