Just a couple of months ago, skis, sleds and figure skatesskates were attributes of merry walks, and lovers of fit forms and excellent health often visited gyms. But now, when sunny weather beckons to skip a workout, the number of clients in various fitness centers will clearly decrease. And what about the slimness of the body - you ask. Don't our muscles require certain loads in the summer? Of course, they do! But you can do it in the fresh air! So, let's buy roller skates!
Famous manufacturers
The first thing to understand is thathow to choose roller skates. It is not as easy as it may seem at first glance. Remember that roller skates are still sports and technological equipment, in which every detail is important. There is a wide range of such products on the market. Let's take a brief overview of the companies that are relevant today.
- MICHELIN
A well-known manufacturer of not only tires, but also roller skates. Only unsold stock is available, as the product was discontinued in 2010.
- SALOMON
Another discontinued model. The quality is amazing, so if you happen to come across an unsold pair, feel free to try them on.
- K2
The merit of this company is in the development of a completely new technology "Soft Boot". The innovation became the basis for all types of roller skates.
- FILA
The product has appeared on the market not so long ago, but has already managed to establish itself and win sympathy.
- ROLLER BLADE
The creator of inline skates. These are models with wheels arranged in a line. A good option for purchase.
- POWERSLIDE
German quality is always worthy of respect. In Russia, the company entered the market in 2004, and has since been considered one of the leaders.
- ROCES
At one time, the manufacturer held on to it for a long timepalm of primacy, but has lost its positions today. Although, if you asked yourself the question: how to choose good rollers, then having come across the products of this company and having chosen the size, buy it - you will not regret it.
- SEBA
The founder of the company is Sebastian Lafargue- a famous slalom skier. The quality is excellent, but the price is steep. And it is not always possible to choose a skate that fits your foot. Also keep in mind that this is not a suitable choice for beginners. Having decided on the manufacturer, we proceed to choosing the boot itself. What should you pay attention to so that the purchase does not turn out to be useless?
Wheels
You've probably noticed that some models havebig wheels, others - small. How to choose the right roller skates if both options are available? A low frame and small wheels are suitable for those who are into extreme sports. They are perfect for jumping on parapets, sliding on railings and everything else. The lack of ventilation in the boot can be called a disadvantage. It will be uncomfortable to skate on uneven surfaces due to the low height of the wheels. You should not choose them if you do not yet know how to ride properly. How to make a choice based on the number of wheels? What are five-wheeled options for? These are sports models for speed skaters who are quite good at high-speed riding. They have low maneuverability due to the frame design, and the boots do not have lateral support for the legs. Since we are beginners, we can forget about the "five-wheel". Which roller skates to choose from all the variety is not an easy question. There are even models for summer hockey on sale. They are designed for athletes with well-trained ankles. Ah, again not for beginners! But the fitness family models are definitely our "size"! Here are some recommendations regarding the choice of wheels. There is a marking: numbers and letters. This is how the diameter and hardness are indicated, respectively. The larger the wheel, the higher the speed can be developed, but in this case the unevenness of the road is felt less. The largest diameters are typical for running models. The higher the hardness, the worse the grip on the surface, especially on turns. Experienced roller skaters choose high hardness values. How to choose roller skates for a child or a beginner adult based on the hardness and diameter of the wheels? For those who are doing their first "rollers", the best choice is a diameter of 76-80 mm, and a hardness of 78A-80A. Keep in mind that soft wheels wear out quickly. With intensive and daily skating, this can happen in as little as two months.
Bearings
When choosing good rollers, do not overlook such a small detail as bearings. They are not visible to the buyer, but they play an important role.
- The speed and ease of riding depends on the quality of the "balls";
- Accuracy class - 3, 5, 7 (in the common people) - the quality of polishing parts. The higher the number, the easier it will be for you to move. The most common are -5 and 7;
- The brands of parts are Nautilus, Black Hole, SKF, Twin Cam;
- Cheap rollers - bad bearings;
- New ILQ standard, where 6 parts are used, not 7;
- Skates for beginners are equipped (almost all) with ABEC-5;
- When choosing rollers, remember that bearings are consumables. At the end of their service life, they can be replaced, just like the wheels themselves.
Frame
Roller skate frames can be made of metal orplastic. Metal ones - made of magnesium or aluminum alloys - require additional cushioning of the boot, as they vibrate when riding on uneven surfaces. They are more often used for models designed for high-speed riding. But if the metal is of poor quality, then you can bend the part even by hand. Deformation is the most common cause of frame failure. Plastic frames (composite) are made of fiberglass, nylon, carbon. Under heavy loads, they can crack. In addition, frames can be removable and non-removable. The first option is convenient because you can clean the boots, but its disadvantage is the self-loosening of the screws. This should be monitored. By the way, this option is suitable for beginner athletes and children.
We choose a shoe
What types of boots are available for sale? Let's take a closer look at them.
- Hard shoe
Until recently, such a design was the mostcommon - a soft boot inserted into a plastic shell. The so-called classic version. Good ventilation, high-quality lateral foot support, impact resistance of the outer part of the skate, the ability to clean the soft insert. All this is inherent in roller skates with a hard boot. Disadvantages: bulkiness and a certain heaviness, possible pressure of the plastic on the foot.
- Soft boot - SOFT-BOOT
This is a non-removable structure with lateral support inin the form of internal stiffening elements made of plastic. They are light, comfortable and well ventilated. But due to the individual structure of the legs, the lateral support may be insufficient, and cleaning the boot fabric will be quite problematic. But for beginners, this is an ideal option.
Fitting
Finally, we come to the question of how to choose the right size roller skates. Well, let's try them on.
- Our legs have the ability to steam out in the heat. This should be taken into account when choosing the size of roller skates;
- Fingers in no case should rest against the toe of a boot;
- Lace the shoe tightly, but without excessive pressure on the foot;
- Putting on your shoes, stand on one leg and the wholebody weight try to fill the roller on its side. The greater the resistance, the better maneuverability. If the "blockage" is deep enough, remove the skates and select other models;
- The roller skate must not be small or large, everything should be at the time;
- Do not hurry! Minutes 15 resemble, bend your legs, bend over, sit down, and it is better (if there is such an opportunity) to go shopping;
- Measure different models and brands to choose a shoe that will be convenient for your feet.
Symptoms that indicate that the selected sizeroller skates are too small: pressure on the legs, numbness of the feet, cramps. If the freedom of the foot and heel is very noticeable, and you cannot lace them up more tightly, the skates are too big. In both cases, continue looking for your pair. Enjoy your skating! We recommend reading:
