Syaakiirroh KaharFeeling nostalgic? Looking for something to do? Want to stay fit and have fun? It’s time to throw it back to the 90’s because inline skating is back!
GIVEAWAY AT THE END OF THIS ARTICLE
In the 1800s, inline skates were made to work like ice skates during the warm weather. But, in the early 90s, the Olson Brothers revamped and redesigned the skates. This led to the rising popularity of rollerblading. It is a non-traditional way of staying fit and people love that. This sport had no age limit nor gender preference.
This pandemic has brought about different trends, especially from the 90’s. From D.I.Y. tie-dye shirts to inline skating, people all around the world are looking for ways to stay healthy and productive. Inline skating is making a huge comeback, even in Brunei. Walking around Bandar Seri Begawan, you will see different groups of adults and children skating. This is a refreshing sight to see amidst this virus.
If you’re planning on hopping on the trend, here are a few tips on how to choose your skates.
Type of skates
Before purchasing a pair of skates, there are some things to consider:
- Fitness inline skates
It is designed for both fitness and recreational skating, which is why it is the most common skates. They are comfortable, easy to steer and are breathable.
- Aggressive inline skates
Most skaters who enjoy performing tricks use these skates. Aggressive inline skates are easy to control and contain different safety features. They are made to tolerate heavy weight during jumps, grands or slides.
- Speed (racing) inline skates
These skates are the most appropriate for racing and intensive training. They are created for repeated use and higher load.
- Slalom inline skates
These skates have smaller wheels positioned close together. These skates are suitable for intermediate and advanced skaters that intend on skating on quality surfaces.
- Children’s inline skates
Obviously, made for children. Most children’s skates can be adjusted to make sure it is comfortable.
(Source: @k2.skates)
How many wheels? 3 or 4?
Here are some things to take into consideration when choosing the number of wheels.
3 wheels – Easier to steer, constant speed, lighter weight
4 wheels – Balance and stability, accelerates faster, easier to brake
Wheel size and hardness
Wheels are one of the most significant elements influencing the skates’ effectiveness. Bigger wheels are faster and built for bumpy surfaces. Whereas, the smaller wheels are slower and are more appropriate for smoother surfaces.
The hardness of the wheels also plays an impact on the users’ skate performance. Soft wheels are more befitting for skating at rougher ground; they absorb impact. Average hardness wheels are for skating on regular surfaces like roads. Hard wheels, on the other hand, are more suitable for faster skating.
Choose the correct skate size
The shoe has to provide the best stability for the foot and ankle. The sizing is usually between half size or two sizes smaller than a normal shoe size and is usually measured in centimetres. All sizing is also done in male.
Pick the right protective gear
The key to having a fun skating experience is to stay safe. Whether you are an advanced skater, or just getting started, you have to protect yourself. Helmets, wrist guards, knee pads and elbow pads, are essential for a smooth and secure skate.
But, where do I skate though?
Need a place to practise or show off your budding skills? Check out Jerudong Park’s Inline Skating Nights at their Supakart F2 arena every Saturday! If you’re feeling a little more confident skating around people, head on over to JPku Ceria every Sunday from 6am to 10am.
GIVEAWAY ALERT!
Guess what? We’re giving away 15 tickets to three lucky winners because we’re invested in your level-up journey! One lucky reader will get five tickets for Inline Skating at Supakart F2 and another two will each get five tickets to JPku Ceria.
How to win:
Step 1: Head on back to our Instagram page
Step 2: Like the post
Step 3: Tag 4 friends you want to go inline skating with
Step 4: All five of you must follow our Instagram page
Step 5: Sit back and relax. We will announce the winners on 3rd October.
*Disclaimer: Final entry by end of day October 1st 2020