Inline skating has become quite popular in the last couple of years. It combines traditional roller skating with ice skating by putting the wheels in the center, located directly behind each other in one line, hence the name "inline skates". Be it recreationally or professionally, inline skating is a fantastic way to relax while moving freely on wheels. All you need is a pair to strap on your feet and some fresh air to get going. There’s a wide range of inline skates built for varying types of skating and it’s only up to you to pick one, depending on how you intend to use them.
When shopping for inline skates, you will notice they are going to be available for men, women, girls, and boys. Men’s skates are usually referred to as adult. Some of them specialize to be a certain type, while others are more versatile for use across different styles. And with so many options out there, it can be difficult to find the skate that is best suited for you. Therefore, we will guide you through the most important things you need to know before you buy your first pair of inline skates.
What to Look For in Men's Inline Skates
There are different factors to consider when choosing which skate is the right one for you. No matter how you think of inline skating - a hobby, form of transportation, or just a form of exercise - comfort is the most important factor. Therefore, look for pair of men's inline skates that comfortably fit and provide maximum stability for the foot and ankle. When picking out inline skates, you should consider the size, type of skates, wheel size and hardness, overall price-quality ratio, frame length, material, and other parameters.
Inline Skate Size/Fit
Inline skates sizing can vary slightly from brand to brand, therefore, it's important to always read the size guide offered to you. The fit of a skate is a personal matter and no feet are alike, however, skate boots should feel so comfortable as soon as you put your foot into them. So, it’s strongly recommended to measure your foot prior to purchasing inline skates. Unless specifically mentioned in the product description, consider getting a size above your usual shoe size, that is, about one European or a half UK size bigger than your normal shoes. Additionally, you can consider purchasing a pair of insoles to improve the fit.
Wheels Size and Hardness
Wheels are one of the most important factors to be considered since they influence skates’ effectiveness. They are typically made of polyurethane (PU) or plastic (PVC) and come in a variety of sizes. The wheel size is determined by its diameter and hardness, typically marked in mm on the side of the wheel. Small wheels are more suitable for beginners as they are slower while big wheels are faster. The wheel hardness is measured in durometers and is marked with “A” at the end. A lower number indicates a softer wheel while higher numbers indicate a harder wheel. When choosing wheel size, consider the environment and the distance you would like to run. For rough roads and longer distances, consider getting pairs that feature larger, harder wheels to stay balanced on uneven surfaces. Conversely, consider a pair of inline skates with smaller, softer wheels for smooth streets or an indoor rink. They are also easier to control.
Material, Frame Length, and Bearing Setup
Another thing to consider when choosing inline skates is the frame as it can influence your skating style. The frame can be plastic, metal, or aluminum. The material, in fact, determines the frame quality, its longevity, and its ability to absorb surface unevenness. Aluminum frames, for example, are more durable than plastic frames and hence can sustain a bigger impact. When it comes to frame length, a longer frame is suitable for endurance rides while a shorter one will allow you to better control the skates. The bearing setup is also important as it can influence both the speed and quality of your skating. Bearings are typically marked with an odd number on the ABEC Scale which denotes the precision of their manufacture. A higher number means the bearings are made more precisely and have low dimensional tolerance.
Men’s Inline Skate Designs
When shopping for inline skate, you will find so many options presented out there. From recreational, fitness, roller hockey, racing, and urban/street skates, there is a wide range of men’s inline skates so you can enjoy this sport with all your friends or family. What type of inline skates to choose mainly depends on whether you are a beginner or an experienced skater with a defined skating style. Consider your skating abilities and the way you intend to use your new skates and you will be able to determine the most appropriate skate type for you.
Recreational Inline Skates
Recreational inline skates are the most popular type of inline skates. Designed for regular skating, anyone can use them for a quick skate around the neighborhood or the local bike trail and enjoy all that inline skating offers. This type of skate comes in a variety of models, from a number of manufacturers, and for all level skaters. They typically have soft boot construction that allows for a more comfortable skate while also being lighter and more breathable. Recreational inline skates are going to be the most likely choice for you unless you need a specific skate type.
Fitness Inline Skates
Fitness inline skates, in fact, are high-performance recreational skates designed specifically for those who skate longer distances. Their design is similar to recreational skates in practically every aspect, except these are for individuals who seek to use their skates for getting in shape via long, fast skating adventures, or skating very frequently. Of course, there are variances between the two types of skates in regards to the bearings, wheel size, and overall weight. Fitness skates typically feature faster bearings and larger wheels that generate speed for lengthy skates.
Racing Inline Skates
Racing inline skates are the best option for skaters who look for both competition and fitness. Thanks to the advanced inline skating technology, racing skates are the fastest skates available on the market. This means these skates are not appropriate for a simple stroll around the neighborhood. Racing inline skates are very lightweight and have bearings ranked highly on the ABEC rating scale. They feature very large wheels in diameter to give the racing skater more speed and better acceleration.
