I am thinking of getting into this and want to start out by getting a pair skates on which I won't have to worry about wiping out on little cracks and bumps on the street. I'm not planning to do much offroading, though I suppose that could change.

Could you give me some advice on what skates would best on the street, and which would be best for slightly more varied riding? I would particularly appreciate any comments on price/performance (or functionality) comparisons. $300+ for the higher end skates (leaps, trailskates) feels like a lot to drop right out the gate on trying out a sport.

Thanks!