Purchasing Fitness Skates

When searching for fitness inline skates, keep these three key points in mind: Opt for a size that is approximately one European size or half a UK size larger than your usual shoes, take into account the wheel size, and decide whether you prefer a soft-boot or hard-boot.

Watch this video for a quick overview of the essential considerations before purchasing your first pair of recreational or fitness inline skates.

Fitness skates are ideal for both exercising and leisurely activities, offering smooth and enjoyable rides. Renowned for their excellent fit and comfort, they also provide breathability, ensuring a pleasant skating experience. People of all ages, from children to seniors, can use fitness inline skates.

Fitness Inline Skates - Promoting Health and Sociability

Using fitness skates is a fun and effective way to burn calories while enjoying fresh air. Furthermore, it serves as a great activity to share with family, friends, or a partner.

Many doctors advise inline skating as an alternative to running for those with knee problems, as skating involves long, gliding movements that are gentler on the knees compared to the impact from running. Plus, it still allows you to enjoy the outdoors.

There is a wide variety of recreational inline skates available, enabling you to choose a pair that suits your preferences.

Wheels for Fitness Inline Skates

Wheel Size

Your choice of wheel size should depend on the distance you intend to skate.

• For longer distances, such as marathons or regular workouts, larger wheels are recommended. They facilitate maintaining speed with less effort. A wheel size of 90-100 mm in diameter, or even 110 mm, is advised.

• For shorter distances, such as city skating, smaller wheels are preferable. They enhance manoeuvrability, making it easier to stop and turn. A wheel size of 80-84 mm is suggested.

Wheel Durometer

The durometer of the wheel is denoted by an A. For fitness inline skates, a durometer of 78-85A is appropriate.

• A higher A number indicates harder wheels.
• A lower A number indicates softer wheels.

The wheel's durometer influences its lifespan, grip, speed, and shock absorption capabilities.

• Softer wheels offer better grip and shock absorption but have a shorter lifespan and reduced speed.
• Harder wheels provide a longer lifespan and higher speed, but less grip and shock absorption.

Refer to our guide Wheel terms explained to learn more about skate wheels.

Bearings

To achieve the best performance from your skates, it is crucial to look after the bearings properly. This involves:

• Minimising exposure to water and moisture.
• Preventing contact with sand and dirt.

Bearings are essential components within the wheel that impact its spinning capability. At SkatePro, we typically specify bearings using the ABEC scale, which measures the bearing's precision.

• A higher ABEC rating corresponds to greater precision and reduced roll resistance, simplifying speed maintenance and enhancing roll quality.

We recommend purchasing from a reputable brand rather than focusing solely on the ABEC rating, as bearing quality depends on various parameters. For example, an ABEC 5 bearing from one brand might outperform an ABEC 7 bearing from another. To delve deeper into bearings, consult our guide Buying bearings.

Boots and Liners

Soft-boot vs. Hard-boot

Your choice between a soft or hard-boot/shell will rely on personal preference.

• A soft-boot/shell tends to be more comfortable and offers better ventilation.
• A hard-boot/shell generally provides greater stability and control.

Liners

While some skates allow for the purchase of a separate liner (inner boot) to enhance comfort, this is typically unnecessary for fitness inline skates because they are designed with a comfortable liner from the outset, offering a high degree of comfort for which they are well-known.

Inline Skates for Women and Men

Skates are often categorised into women’s and men’s versions, though usually the distinction is simply aesthetic. However, some brands cater specifically to the anatomical differences of men’s and women’s feet. If you are considering purchasing a pair from the opposite gender on our webshop, feel free to contact us for detailed advice.

Size/Fit

• Study the size guide available on the product pages, if provided.
• Select approximately one EU size larger than your normal footwear size, unless otherwise specified in the size guide.
• Try the skates for about 10-15 minutes. If a return is possible, test them only indoors.

Your toes should have some freedom of movement; they should not be pressed against the front of the skate. If there's discomfort from the outset, longer runs will be painful. Keep in mind that boots tend to expand over time, and soft-boots will stretch more than hard-boots.

Individuals with narrow feet often choose models like K2 skates for a snugger feel. Conversely, brands such as Rollerblade and Powerslide are popular with those who have wider feet.

The fit of a skate is highly personal and varies significantly; thus, your first pair might not be perfect. Therefore, it's necessary to try out different models, much like with regular footwear. Size guides are crucial and will greatly assist in finding the right fit.

Closure System - Buckles and Laces

Fitness inline skates commonly feature a closure system with both buckles and laces. Some models offer a unique wire tightening mechanism that adjusts the fit when the knob is turned. Buckles are quicker than laces and provide consistency in fit. However, laces permit varied tightening along the foot.

Your selection of closure system should be based on personal preference. More importantly, ensure the closure system allows for optimal fit and control over your skates.

Brake

Most skates include a pre-installed brake. If preferred, you can swap it to the other skate to brake with your preferred foot. Brakes wear out eventually, so purchasing an extra pair from the start is wise.

This ensures readiness and avoids potential brake discontinuation. Nevertheless, reputable brands typically supply brakes for specific models for extended periods.

Frames

The frame of fitness inline skates is frequently aluminium, which offers greater stiffness and stability, enhancing power transfer compared to nylon/composite frames. If shaving seconds off your lap time is crucial, opt for an aluminium frame. For casual workouts and relaxed rides, either material suffices.

Skate Protection

We advise using certified safety gear. Our range includes equipment accredited by EN 1078 standards, with most items further tested by skaters.

As a minimum, we recommend a skate helmet for enhanced head protection, and wrist guards, which provide hand protection during falls.

Skate protection not only safeguards you but also increases confidence, encouraging risk-taking and accelerated learning. In case of a fall, injuries are significantly reduced with gear.

Explore our extensive collection of fitness skates

Contact us for further assistance if you have any further enquiries. Our customer support team is eager to assist you. :-)