Rollerblade is both the name of the company that pioneered inline skates and a word that has come to refer to any and all models of inline skates. Once a fitness craze, inline skating has settled into an enjoyable form of outdoor recreation and fitness, not to mention a viable commuting option if you’re lucky enough to live near smooth, paved trails.
Appearance
The look for all Rollerblades and other inline skate is fairly standard. A semirigid upper boot is mounted on top of four wheels, supported by a frame made of aluminum alloy or nylon and fiberglass. Older models came with a fully rigid plastic upper. Inline skate wheels typically range between 70 and 80 mm in diameter. Most recreational skates have a single rubber stopper that acts as a brake, mounted behind the wheels on the right skate only, although it can usually be switched to the left side if you prefer braking with your left foot.
Types
A few significant variations exist among inline skates intended for various pursuits. Speed and hockey skates have no braking system. Speed skates also feature a fifth wheel, substantially lengthening the frame and allowing longer strides. “Aggressive” or stunt skates have very small wheels, as small as 44 mm in diameter, to facilitate stunts like grinds, jumps and spins.
Bearings
Your inline skate wheels rotate on seven or eight bearings per wheel. Serviceable bearings, which you can clean, lubricate or replace as necessary yourself, are covered by a removable plastic or rubber shield. Nonserviceable bearings are protected by a metal shield and should be wiped off periodically with a clean, dry cloth.
Cost
As of May 2010, ultra-high-end inline speed skates can cost as much as $1,000. Have no fear: Many quality inline skates can be purchased for less than $200, with a number of low-price models available for less than $100.
Warning
Rollerblading can be a high-speed sport, especially when you find yourself unexpectedly pointed downhill, rapidly accelerating out of control. Beginners are well-advised to avoid even slight hills until they have learned to control their skates, and even advanced skaters should consider wearing a helmet plus knee, elbow and wrist pads to offer some protection against unintentional crashes.
Expert Insight
Try the Inline Planet’s tip to find inline skates with the perfect fit: Put the skates on and bend your knees. Your toes shouldn’t touch the front of your boot when your knees are bent, but when you straighten your legs, your toes should lightly contact the front of the boot.
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