Quality Criteria for Inline Skates
Inline skates consist of 3 main components:
- the soft boot
- the frame
- the wheel
The Soft Boot
Soft boots usually have laces and ankle straps. When choosing inline skates it is definitely important to pay attention to getting a comfortable fit. Inline skating is only fun if the shoe is comfortable to wear. You should therefore not make any compromises when it comes to choosing the right size. Bear in mind that your feet expand during the day. Therefore you should buy the skates in the afternoon or in the evening. The inline skates should not feel tight even with thin socks.
The Frame
The materials used on the frames influence the weight and the skating quality of the inline skate. The more stable the frame, the smoother and quieter the inline skates.
Synthetic frames are not as warp-resistant and robust as aluminium, magnesium or carbon frames.
The Wheels
The size of the wheels and the degree of hardness are important.
Wheels with a diameter between 78 and 82mm are usually used for fitness purposes. Small wheels (50-60 mm) are used by professionals for jumping and halfpipe skating.
The hardness of the wheel is measured by a durometer. Medium hardness of the wheel is 78-82 A and is most often used. Softer wheels with a rating under 78 have better road grip and shock absorption but they do not roll as quickly and they wear out a lot faster.
The precision of the wheel bearing is given in ABEC. The higher the number (1, 3, 5 or 7) the more precise the manufacture of the wheel bearings.
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