I just started derby and I have the Reidell R3s. They're fine for beginning skates but I'm a month in and can already tell the difference between them and higher-end skates. I'm hoping that nicer wheels will make them work for longer.
These toe caps are rubber instead of leather. I've only used them for a night. They slipped a lot, but I think I just didn't have them on tightly enough.
Supposedly
Derby Vixen on etsy makes vegan toe guards if you ask and she has great reviews:
