PURCHASING INLINE SKATES

In-line
skates are used for hockey, racing, fitness training, recreation,
freestyle skating, and cross training for other sports.
There are models designed for each of these activities. So
your interests are pertinent in getting the right skates. In
addition, your skills and activity level will also determine the
right skate for you.
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Recreational
skates are designed for leisure. Comfort and durability are
priorities and these skates are usually equipped with 4 wheels.
Aggressive
skates are designed for stunts, jumps, riding rails and half pipes. This
type of skate is designed to be sturdy and provide maneuverability.
Hockey
skates are similar in style to traditional ice skates. Designed
for durability. Usually have lace-up closures and no braking system.
Speed skates
are designed to be light weight for fast skating. They will have a
fifth wheel for stability and longer strides and larger wheels to help
with acceleration.
Women's
skates are designed to accommodate a woman's calf and foot.
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Once
you have determined your needs you must decide on your budget. You will
find that skates come in all prices. You should plan on spending
at a minimum $50 for good pair and approximately $100 for the advanced,
serious skater.
You will
find that there are many different types and brands of in-line skates.
Spend some time researching different skates. Pay particular
attention to the different types of wheels, brakes and boots.
Wheels
come with two numbers. The first tells you the size of the wheel. The
second focuses on the hardness of the wheel. The bigger the wheel, the
faster you go and the longer it lasts. A softer wheel the smoother the
ride, but it won't last as long. Beginners should purchase skates with
softer wheels because they will help
them to slow down and remain stable. Softer wheels are typically known as 72 durometer wheels. The most common wheel choice is 78 durometers. An 82
durometer wheel is good for varied terrains and racers or experienced
skaters use harder wheels which are 85 durometers.
Check the
brakes to be sure they are proper for you. It should be on the right
skate for a right-handed person and on the left skate for those that are
left-handed
You can
purchase in-line skates at inline specialty stores or large sporting
goods stores. Go to the store and try on different brands to see
how they feel. You should take the socks that you will wear when you
will be skating. Make
sure you stand while wearing each pair, they may feel like they fit
great while sitting down and can put pressure on your ankles and toes
when you stand. Try both skates on at the same time and skate around the
store, on carpet of course to avoid injury, to make sure they feel
comfortable.
The right
skates should feel sturdy, secure and fit much like a shoe around your
foot. While the Internet provides retailers with great deals on
skates, don't even consider it unless you know exactly what you want and
the size that properly fits you.
For
very young children Fisher Price has a beginner model that they will
love and that is very popular. As they get older and advance it is
smart to purchase adjustable size skates. This way you can adjust
the skate as your child's foot grows. This is what I purchased for
my children and it proved to be a great selection. They are a
little more expensive but you will save in the long run.

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