Heelys are roller shoes, which means they have one or more wheels embedded in the heel of an otherwise normal-looking shoe. The wheels are inset, making it possible for you to walk normally by shifting your weight to the front of your foot. To coast, you shift your weight backward, which allows the wheel to spin. Proper safety gear, such as helmets, knee pads, elbow pads and wrist guards, helps protect you from injuries due to falls.
Function
To begin, find a smooth, flat surface to skate on. Stand still and practice shifting your body weight to the wheeled portion of your heels. Try walking a few steps, then coast on one foot. Move slowly to avoid falling. To brake, angle your foot forward. Over time, you'll get comfortable with the necessary foot movements, but don't get so comfortable that you forget the wheels are there.
Advanced Tricks
Once you can coast and brake well, try some more advanced techniques and tricks. For example, try coasting on just one wheel for as long as you can. Learn to skate backward. After you master that, perform a 180-degree turn by spinning around while you coast. Heelys offers a full list of tricks on its corporate website, Heelys.com, including detailed instructions for how to perform them and video examples.
Safety
The Heelys company also offers a list of safety guidelines that you should follow to minimize the risk of serious injury. Examine the shoes regularly to ensure the wheels are free of obstructions and that the equipment is in good working order. For example, wheels should not have dents, cracks or worn areas. Wear a snug helmet at all times. Watch the ground in front of you to make sure there are no cracks, rocks or rough patches that could trip you. Study and follow all the safety guidelines to maximize your safety.
Expert Insight
The Heelys company mainly markets its roller shoes to children, so some researchers have concerns about the hazards the products pose to children. A study released in a 2007 issue of the journal "Pediatrics" analyzed the use of Heelys and similar products during a 10-week period in Dublin, Ireland. The researchers documented 67 injury cases, most of which were upper-limb injuries, such as fractures and dislocations. None of the children studied were wearing protective gear while using their roller shoes. The study concluded that "these new types of injuries have a serious impact on child health and constitute a burden for the pediatric orthopedic service."
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