Rollers: The Ultimate Buying Guide

Rollers: The Ultimate Buying Guide

Have you been excited by the latest trend taking over the squares? Colorful skates and tricks? If you, too, have been swept up in the roller skate craze, don’t wait! Join us in the magical world of roller skating!

First, choose the type of skates that inspire you: quad skates or inline skates?

Quad skates

Quad skates, also known as roller skates, have 4 wheels and two axles, one at the front and one at the back, on which the wheels and bearings sit (picture it like a car). 

This makes them more stable, which is why beginners tend to choose them. 

They’re the traditional skates and the first ones we wore as children.

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Inline skates

Inline skating (or rollerblading) is undoubtedly one of the most fun ways to get around the city! 

And when you consider that it also meets your need for exercise, you’ll see that inline skating is an alternative form of exercise you should try!

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Another difference between inline and quad skates is the position of the brake. On inline rollers, the brake is located on the heel of one boot, which you have the option to remove when you feel ready.

On quad skates, the "toe stop" is attached to the plate located in front and below the toes on both boots.

In this article, we will look together at what you need to pay attention to when purchasing your new equipment.

1. Size

Initially, the size of inline skates varies slightly from company to company. The size you should choose should be one number larger than your shoe size. This way, it will fit better and you will have the comfort to add an insole at the bottom for even greater comfort during use. 

Rollers: The Ultimate Buying Guide

2. Wheels

In wheels, there are two factors for choosing the ideal ones. The first is the size and refers to their diameter. Wheels ranging between 70-76mm generally offer lower speeds and better balance. If you are a fan of speed, then you should look for inline skates with wheels larger than 80mm.

The second—equally important—factor is their hardness. As in skateboard, here too, the measurement is recorded with a number and the ending A. Wheels with hardness between 78A and 82A are the most popular on the market. Softer wheels are designed for winter, while harder ones are for summer. This happens because in summer the road surface is warm and the wheels tend to soften faster.

Rollers: The Ultimate Buying Guide

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3. Brake/Stopper

The brake is not integrated into all inline models. Those that “wear” a brake have it built into the back and make braking or reducing speed easier. It is considered a must-have accessory for new riders.

If you do not want a brake or you are a more advanced rider, then you should practice the T-Stop technique, in which you drag the back part of the foot perpendicular to you to reduce speed.

Rollers: The Ultimate Buying Guide

4. Bearings

At the center of each wheel there are 2 bearings. Each one is marked with a number using the ABEC rating, which indicates the precision and durability of the bearing in question. The ABEC Rating scale starts at ABEC-1 and can go up to ABEC-9. The higher this number is, the more durable the bearing is. Bearings do not need to be cleaned after every ride, but if they get wet, it is a good idea to clean them with a dry cloth at the end of the ride.

Rollers: The Ultimate Buying Guide

5. Frames

The Frame, or axle, is the accessory that “holds” all the skate components in their proper place. The most popular models incorporate frames made of aluminum alloys and fiberglass. There are also models on the market with metal frames, which are more durable, faster, and lighter; however, they are intended for a more advanced audience.

Rollers: The Ultimate Buying Guide

These are the most important things you should keep in mind to choose the right rollers for you. 

But don’t forget safety! A helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads, and knee pads are essential accessories that protect you from injuries and give you the confidence to enjoy every ride or trick with peace of mind. Invest in your protection and make skating not only fun but also safe!

Protective Covers for Rollers

Features

  • Light-Up Wheels: They feature built-in LED lights that turn on automatically as you move (using a magnetic mechanism, with no batteries required). They create an impressive effect and improve visibility and safety in low-light conditions.
  • Adjustable Size: The boot length adjusts at the touch of a button, typically covering 3 to 4 shoe sizes (e.g. 31–34 or 35–38). This way, the skate “grows” with the child’s foot, so it does not need to be replaced straight away.
  • Wheel Configuration: Allows you to change the position of the wheels according to the skater’s skill level. With children’s models, you can start with a more stable setup for learning (e.g. two wheels parallel at the back and one at the front in a triangular configuration) and later position them all in a straight line (inline).
  • Combo Set: Includes the skates along with the necessary protective gear (helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards) and usually a carrying bag, so you can get started right away without any additional purchases.

Don't think about it any longer, take the first step today!

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