Indoor roller skating is kind of having a moment right now with the rising popularity of roller derbies. Roller skating is a great way to have a fun time with your friends and family and also a great way to get some much-needed cardio. But in order to get all the benefits of roller skating, you have to find the right pair of roller skates first. In this article, we’re going to give you a few things you should be looking for when buying your first pair of roller skates.
Pick The Right Wheels
If you’re on the market for quad skates, you’ll have to think about the type of wheels you’ll need first. If this is your first time shopping for wheels and you’re just beginning with roller skating, all you have to worry about is the hardness of the wheels. Hardness is calculated on a scale of 0 to 100a. The higher the number, the harder the wheels.
The hardness of the wheels will make a significant difference to your experience. Harder wheels will last longer on average, but the grip won’t be as good and they’re not great at absorbing shock either. Softer wheels, on the other hand, have great slip protection and shock absorbing properties, but their lifespan is shorter. It’s up to you to decide which one you prefer.
Choosing and Maintaining Bearings
Wheels also have bearings that help prevent friction and provide a smoother wheel and tire rotation. Beginners shouldn’t worry about what their bearings’ grade is since you won’t see a difference until you start reaching higher speeds. However, it’s important that you treat them properly if you want your skates to perform best. Make sure that you keep them free of sand or dirt and avoid water as much as possible.
Picking Between a Hard Boot and a Soft Boot
The softness of the boot will also make a difference, and some boots will be better in certain situations than others. Hard boots will be better for people who want to do some long distances as they provide more support and stability. Soft boots, on the other hand, are better for disco skating and dancing since they’re more maneuverable. They also tend to be lighter and better aerated.
Size
Choosing the right size for the boot might be tricky, but as a rule of thumb, beginners should pick a boot one size larger than what they usually wear in shoes. At the end of the day, the boots should be neither too loose nor tight. You also have to check the manufacturer’s size chart since some models tend to run much smaller to size.
Trucks and Plates
Roller skates have what are called plates and trucks underneath that attach the boot to the wheels. The best roller skates will either have aluminum or composite plates. Good trucks are usually made of aluminum for its resistance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pair of roller skates is all about knowing what to look for and coming prepared. Above all, make sure that you save your money and buy some high-quality skates from a reputable provider if you want your skates to last long, perform well, and be safe.
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