What To Look For
Freestyle slalom skating is very popular in Europe and Asia and is increasing in popularity in the United States. Tricks performed in slalom are characterized by tight turns at slow speeds. Things to look for in slalom skates are a rigid, tight-fitting boot, short frame length, and 76-to-80mm wheels, depending on foot size. These skates are designed for turns in small spaces, so frame length should be the same as foot size. Slalom skate models include the Seba High and Seba Deluxe from France, the Powerslide Metro FSK, Powerslide S3 FSK, and the Rollerblade Twister 243.
Common Pitfalls
For beginning freestylers, it is fine to start out on inline hockey skates or other recreational skates. Women or men with small feet may find hockey skates to be a better fit. However, as skill level and trick difficulty increase, specialized slalom skates are in order. Make sure the skate is not too big, and snug enough to allow maximum control and turning ability. The boot and frame need to be rugged enough to withstand the punishment of freestyle skating. The foot brake is usually not worn in slalom skating as it interferes with turning and trick performance.
Where To Buy
In the U.S., Seba skates are only available through one distributor, Skatecrazy.net. The Powerslide and Rollerblade skates may be found in local sporting goods stores or local skate shops. However, since slalom skates are fairly specialized, online retailers are usually the easiest place to find a particular model. InlineWarehouse.com carries both the Metro FSK and the S3 FSK models. The Rollerblade Twister 243s are a bit easier to find. Skates.com is one online retailer that offers this model.
Cost
Seba skates are designed with the professional slalom skater in mind and their price reflects it. The Seba High retails for $379 and the Seba Deluxe for $435 at Skatecrazy.net. InlineWarehouse.com lists the sale price of the Powerslide Metro FSK at $159 and the S3 FSK at $249. The Rollerblade Twister 243 has a sale price of $169 on Skates.com.
Comparison Shopping
Comparison shopping is somewhat difficult with slalom skates due to the specialized nature of the sport and the fact that true slalom skates are difficult to find in retail outlets. However, if a local skate shop does have any of these models available, it is a good idea to demo as many skates as possible. Finding a comfortable fit in a short frame is the key to selecting a quality slalom skate. If skates are to be purchased sight unseen, check with the retailer on their refund or exchange policy before making a final purchase. This will ensure a smooth return if the skates don't fit right the first time.
Accessories
The most important accessories for slalom skating are the small cones used for turns and tricks while doing freestyle slalom skating. Big cones are harder to use, so typical slalom cones have a three-to-four-inch base and are about three inches high. Wheels used for slalom skating are fairly hard, about 82A, for outdoor use and for doing turns, stops and slides.
Insider Tips
Seba skates are the high-end makes that the pros use. The main difference between the Seba High and the Seba Deluxe is that the Deluxe has the Deluxe frame. This frame is stronger and will take more punishment than the 6000 frame on the Seba High. Many skaters rocker their skates where different wheel sizes are used to allow for tighter turns. The most common setup is the banana rocker where smaller wheels are used on the front and back. A typical setup would be 76-80-80-76 for the wheels.
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