Rollers: The ultimate buying guide
Have you been excited about the latest trend that dominates the squares? Colorful roller skates and tricks? If you have been swept away by the wave of roller skates, don't hesitate! Come with us to the magical world of rollers!
First, choose the type of rollers that inspire you: quad skates or inline skates?
- Quad skates
Quad skates or roller skates, known to us as "square skates", have 4 wheels and have two axles, one front and one back, on which the wheels with bearings rest (imagine it like a car). This makes them more stable and therefore more popular with beginners. They are the traditional skates and the first ones we wore as children.
- Inline skates
Inline skating (or rollers) is undoubtedly one of the most entertaining ways to take a ride through the city! If you consider the fact that it also satisfies your need for exercise, then you understand that inline skating is an alternative exercise proposal that you should try!
Another difference between inline and quad skates is the position of the brake. In inline rollers, the brake is located on the heel of one boot, which you can remove when you feel ready.
In quad skates, the "toe stop" is attached to the plate located in front and below the toes of both boots.
In this article, we will look together at what you need to pay attention to when buying 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 a sole to the bottom for even greater comfort during use.
2. Roller Skates
There are two factors to consider when choosing the ideal roller skate wheels. The first one is size and it concerns their diameter. Roller skate wheels ranging from 70-76mm generally offer slower speeds and better balance. If you're a speed enthusiast, then you should look for inline skates with wheels larger than 80mm.
The second factor, equally important, is their hardness. As with skateboards, the measurement is recorded with a number and the suffix A. Wheels with a 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 is because the pavement is hot in summer and the wheels tend to soften faster.
3. Brake/Stopper
The brake is not integrated in all inline models. Those that have a brake, have it integrated in the back and it makes 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 will need to practice the T-Stop technique, in which you drag the back of your foot perpendicular to yourself to reduce speed.
4. Bearings
There are 2 bearings in the center of each wheel. Each one is marked with a number indicating its ABEC rating, which indicates the precision and durability of the bearing. The ABEC rating scale starts at ABEC-1 and can go up to ABEC-9. The higher the number, the more durable the bearing. Bearings do not need to be cleaned after every ride, but if they get wet, it is good to clean them with a dry cloth at the end of the ride.
5. Frames
The Frame is the accessory that "holds" all the components of the skate in their proper position. The most popular models incorporate frames made of aluminum alloys and fiberglass. There are also models on the market with metal frames that are more durable, faster, and lighter, but are aimed at a more advanced audience.
These are the most important things to keep in mind when choosing the right rollers for you. Don't think about it anymore, take the first step today!
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