Abstract: Mono-wheel roller skates having a single large main wheel which supports the skater and a pivotally mounted smaller brake actuation wheel which contacts the ground when the skates are tipped backward and which is operatively connected to caliper brakes which grip the main wheel to slow or stop the skater. The main wheel is treaded and spring-mounted on a cantilevered arm to absorb shocks for off-road skating. A removable rock guard works in conjunction with a built-in rail guard to deflect debris and prevent it from accumulating in front of the main wheel. An arcuate toe push-off piece or a unidirectionally rolling toe push-off wheel allows pushing off from the toe of the skate such that a skater can use an in-line skating stroke wherein the skates remain pointed in the direction of travel rather than angled outward thereto as is usually required for skating.