Tag inline skates

Rollerblading, or inline skating, is not just a fun, nostalgic throwback to the ‘90s; it can be a full-body workout and a really cool way to show off some skills! After getting down to the basics, you may be looking for some new tricks to add to your belt. Luckily, there are a myriad of tricks ranging from beginner to intermediate that you can learn. Lace up while we roll into five tricks you can pull off in inline skates with some practice (and the occasional bruised ego).

5 Tricks You Can Pull Off in Inline Skates

1. The T-Stop Slide 

Let us start with the T-stop, something as useful as it is impressive. With the word “stop” in its name, you can guess that this move is used to break. When it is done well, it almost looks like a slick move out of a dance routine!

How to do it: As you skate forward, move your weight over to your dominant leg, while dragging your other skate behind you gently. Make sure the other skate is at a perpendicular angle, which should form a “T” shape. Applying enough pressure creates friction and lets you slow down. What brings finesse into this trick is getting control; the goal is to glide into stopping instead of an abrupt stop. 

Pro tip: You can prevent your skates from wearing down and make your balance better if you do this trick on a smooth, dry surface. 

2. Heel-Toe Spin

This next one is a great way to work on your control and foot coordination with a balance of rhythm and flair. 

How to do it: Position one of your feet on its heel and the other foot on its toe. Use your core to rotate your body in a circle while keeping your feet in that stance. You might feel like a figure skater!

Be patient: You need solid core strength as well as balance for this one. Begin with smaller rotations while you build up your confidence. 

3. Bunny Hop

If you have ever jumped over a small object or crack in the sidewalk, you have already done a version of the bunny hop. The trick is to lift all your wheels off the ground in one controlled movement. 

How to do it: As you approach the object or obstacle, crouch slightly. Then, while using your legs, spring up and pull your knees towards your chest. Your skates should lift off together and softly land in parallel. 

Safety tip: Practice on grass or with protective gear before you try it on the pavement. 

4. Slalom Weave

The slalom weave is all about moving your skates in a side-to-side motion as you glide forward. It is a flowy trick that can build ankle strength and make you look like you are fluidly dancing through the cones. 

How to do it: Set up some cones about two feet apart. Begin with a forward glide as you get closer to them, and weave your skates in and out using your hips and ankles to control. Bend your knees slightly and keep your upper body relaxed. 

Why it’s worth it: This trick is the foundation for more complicated tricks and can teach you precise control of your edge work. 

5. The Backward Skate

Skating backward is one of the most impressive and useful inline skills because it can also serve as a gateway to more challenging spins. 

How to do it: Form a V-shape with your skates pointing outward and your knees bent. Alternate your pushes to glide backward while keeping your chest upright and looking over your shoulder. Practice in an open area until you feel you have a good sense of control.

Bonus challenge: Try to make your transitions from forward to backward skating smooth without stopping. 

Get Started Safely 

Before you try any tricks, make sure you are comfortable with basic skating fundamentals like balance, stopping, and turning. Practicing on smooth surfaces will help you feel more confident and stay away from injury. You can even check out some tutorial videos from professional skaters or join a local skating group. These groups are quite welcoming to beginners and can give you real-time feedback. 

Remember that every skater falls a lot. But each time can teach you more about your center of gravity and push you to be resilient. At the end of the day, just make sure you are being safe and having fun. Stock up on protective gear from a skate shop, and check out their cool skates to upgrade to as a reward as well!

Inline skating and ice skating are both fun activities. Many people enjoy the physical, social, and emotional benefits of both. At first glance, they may seem similar, and you may wonder, “Is inline skating like ice skating?” While these types of skating do share common elements, they are different in several ways. We explain more below.

Is Inline Skating Like Ice Skating?

Inline skating and ice skating are similar in several ways. Consider the following parallels between both activities. 

Movement

The most obvious similarity between these types of skating is the movement. Both types of skating require balance, coordination, and strength, as well as improved muscle tone. In both cases, the skater moves by pushing off with one foot while gliding on the other. This repeated action creates a smooth rhythm that allows you to glide forward with ease.

Turning

Inline skating and ice skating also use the same techniques when turning. Whether you are on inline skate wheels or ice skate blades, turning requires a specific technique of shifting your weight and angling your skates to guide you in a certain direction while still maintaining a forward motion.

Stopping

The method one uses to stop is another shared aspect of inline skating and ice skating. Both skating methods use friction to slow the skater down to a stop. Ice skaters often use a technique that involves turning the foot at an angle to the direction they are moving and digging the edge of the ice skate blade into the ice to halt movement. Inline skaters can stop similarly by using the T-stop. The T-stop for inline skaters is the same as the topping method for ice skaters, except that inline users will often drag the angled foot to stop rather than shift it in front of them.

Key Differences Between Ice Skating and Inline Skating

Both types of skating have several similarities, but each has many unique qualities. Consider the following differences between the two activities. 

Movement Mechanism

The methods of movement—including forward movement, turning, and stopping—are similar for both inline skating and ice skating. However, inline skates are often used on several different terrains, including a skating rink, outdoor path, or even on the road. Inline skates from a top skates retailer have at least four wheels in a single line from your heel to your toe. However, ice skates have a single blade and are limited to the ice because of it. 

Boots

The boots for inline skates and ice skates are vastly different. Ice skating boots are typically stiffer and provide more ankle support, which is crucial for the safety of the ice skater. Strong support is critical for ice skating maneuvers like jumps and spins. Alternatively, inline skate boots are more flexible and comfortable. This quality is helpful as they are specifically designed for long periods of use.

Which Type of Skating Is Easier?

Ice skaters and inline skaters have both likely wondered if the other sport is easier than their own. Luckily, there are several transferable skills between the two, so if you want to try the other type of skating, you will likely pick it up with ease. 

That being said, neither type of skating is inherently easier than the other. They are just different. Some may suggest that inline skating will be easier to pick up because the wheels provide more stability than the blades of ice skates do. Still, others would believe that ice skating is easier because, if needed, it is easier to take small steps in ice skates than it is in roller skates. At the end of the day, your choice will depend on personal preference and the amount of practice you are willing to put in. Once you dedicate some time to getting the basics down, you will be able to enjoy gliding, whether on ice or a roller rink.

Skates Retailer

If you want to pick up skating, check out the selection of skates and skate gear at Crazy Skates today.

Choosing the right pair of skates can make a huge difference in your skating journey. Inline skates are a popular option for many skaters. They are great for beginners and advanced skaters because of the several different skating styles new and old skaters can engage in. Below, you will find helpful information about inline skates and their different uses.

What Are Inline Skates?

An inline skate is characterized by wheels arranged in a single line on the bottom of the skate. These are unlike traditional quad skates that have wheels arranged in a rectangle on the bottom of the shoe. Inline skates are designed to offer a smooth skating experience where you can hit high speeds. Consider the following most notable features of inline skates for men and women.

Wheels

The wheels on inline skates are in a single line on the bottom of the boot. The wheels can vary in terms of wheel size and hardness. Larger wheels allow you to hit higher speeds. However, smaller wheels are more advantageous for skating tricks. Inline skate wheels are influential when it comes to control and speed. The material also impacts the grip effectiveness. The wheels work in conjunction with the bearings to ensure a smooth ride. 

Boot

On top of the platform that holds the wheels is the boot of the inline skate. The boot holds your foot, keeps it secure, and provides support for your ankles. Your skates can have a hard or soft boot. Each offers different benefits depending on your preference. Soft boots are lightweight and breathable, which makes them a great option for casual skating. Hard boots are better for more aggressive skating because they offer more support and protection than softer boots. The size of your boot is also variable and may change depending on the type of skating you do.

Frame

The frame of inline skates is what holds the wheels in place and connects them to the boot. They can be made from a number of different materials but are most commonly composed of aluminum and plastic. Plastic is better for casual or recreational use because it is less durable than aluminum. Aluminum, in contrast, is durable and lightweight, which makes it ideal for those considering speed skating.

Choosing the Right Inline Skates

Choosing which inline skates are right for you depends on several factors. Consider your skill level and the type of skating you want to do. Additionally, you should consider the wheel size, wheel hardness, and boot type. Make sure to specify your skate components based on the style of skating you want to do. Additionally, carefully consider your budget, as skates can vary widely in price. Below, you will find the various types of inline skates to choose from.

Fitness Inline Skates

If you are looking to get fit for the summer, fitness skates are a great option. You can get a great workout with them as they are perfect for long-distance skating. Look for wheels that support speed and a lightweight frame. 

Recreational Inline Skates

If you are a beginner and just getting started on your skating journey, consider recreational skates. These skates are great for casual use as you start your skating journey. They are often made with soft boots and medium wheels. They also have heel brakes to help with control.

Speed Inline Skates

Adrenaline seekers love speed skates because they can reach high speeds for long distances. Speed skates often have large wheels and low boots. Large wheels accommodate high speeds. Low boots help provide more flexibility and a wider range of ankle movement. They are a great option if you want to elevate your skating experience to the next level.

Inline Skates for Men and Women

If you need a new pair of skates, check out the selection at Crazy Skates today.

Roller skating is an excellent activity for people of all athletic levels. When you grab your skates, you have a range of options, from taking a casual glide through town to competing in a more intensive derby session. Everyone can find a version of skating that fits their interests. Because there are so many different types of skating, it is very important to make sure you are using skates that suit your needs. Today, we outline one of the most used types of skates and explain what inline skates are.

What Are Inline Skates?

Inline skates are a great option if you already have some skating experience. Inline skates are better for more advanced skaters because their wheels are arranged in a straight line on the bottom of the boot. This configuration differs from quad skates, the other most popular type of skate, which have wheels arranged in a rectangle on the bottom of the boot.

Due to the arrangement of the wheels on these skates, quad skates are typically better than inline skates for beginners because they provide better balance. That said, the design of inline skates allows for faster speed than quad skates do. For this reason, inline skates are preferred for a number of advanced skating options.

Different Uses of Inline Skates

Several types of skating styles cater to inline skates. Some of the more popular are outlined below.

Speed Skating

The ultimate goal of speed skating is to go as fast as you are able on open roads or indoor tracks. Inline skates are built for speed and, therefore, are the perfect shoe for speed skating. It is a competitive style of skating that involves precision, endurance, and technique. Speed skating is only recommended for advanced skaters because of the increased risk of injury at high speeds.

Freestyle Skating

Freestyle skating often takes place in large cities because one requires industrial terrain to participate fully. This version of the sport involves dodging obstacles, taking sharp turns, and weaving in, out, and over various areas. The roller skating that one would see at a skate park would fall under the category of freestyle skating.

The presence of obstacles and jumps in freestyle skating means that you should only engage with caution and safety equipment. Still, if you freestyle skate, inline skates are the best option for you because they allow the most agile and unrestricted movement.

Recreational Skating

We have already determined that inline skates are excellent for those looking for speed. They are also great for those who want to skate casually. Recreational skating can be done indoors at a rink or outdoors on flat ground and is doable by people of all fitness levels. Despite the slower nature of recreational skating, it is still a great form of exercise.

Fitness Skating

For those who want to level up their workout game, fitness skating is a great form of exercise. It is more intense than recreational skating but still has all of the fun benefits. Skating for an hour at higher speeds can torch more than 600 calories an hour, though the exact number will depend on your weight. In any case, this number is often greater than it would be if you chose to run or cycle instead.

Off Road Skating

For those who really want to get their heart rate up, off-road skating is a rush of adrenaline. Off-road skating is done on rugged terrains, such as dirt or gravel paths. Off-road skating comes with the additional risk of hitting a bump incorrectly and ending up on the ground, so you should always have safety and other roller skating equipment on hand when you engage. It is a great form of inline skating for those who like to explore things off the beaten path. 

Roller Skating Equipment

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned skater, check out the selection of skate gear at Crazy Skates today! 

Inline skating has become increasingly popular over the last few years. It is a great form of physical activity that offers several benefits. It can boost your mood, improve your cardiovascular health, and get you in shape before summer. Inline skating can be done indoors or outdoors. You may wonder, how long will inline skates last? Below you will find information on the lifespan of inline skates.

How Long Will Inline Skates Last?

Inline skates can last you a long time if you take care of them. However, there are several factors that determine how long your skates will last.

Type of Skates

The type and quality of adjustable inline skates that you have has an impact on how long they will last. Skates that are lower quality do not last as long as high-quality skates. Low-quality skates may last only one year whereas high-quality skates can last up to three years or more. 

The type of skate is also a factor, as there are several options. Aggressive skates used for stunts and other tricks may last just a few years. However, high-performance professional skates can last as long as a decade with proper care.

Maintenance and Care

The longevity of your skates depends on how well you care for them. Regular cleaning and maintenance is necessary to keep them in good shape. It’s necessary to clean up your skates after every use. This includes removing dirt and debris. You should also remove any moisture from them, and a deep clean is beneficial as well. Depending on how often you skate, you should do a deep clean between weekly and monthly. Rotate your wheels as needed to ensure they do not wear down unnecessarily. 

When cleaning your inline skates in Westminster, be sure to check all of the parts. This includes the bearings, wheels, and brake pads. Replacing worn-out parts is necessary. This can ensure the longevity of your skates, in addition to your safety. Failing to do so can reduce the lifespan of your inline skates. 

Frequency of Use

The amount of time you spend inline skating can impact the lifespan of your skates. For those who regularly maintain their skates, you may get more time out of them. Casual skaters can expect their skates to last longer. However, those who spend several days a week skating may need to replace their skates more often. 

Consider your frequency of use when looking for new skates. Those who skate frequently should opt for high-quality skates. Inline skates made from quality materials are a great investment for those who skate multiple times each week. This should be combined with a regular maintenance routine to ensure they last.

Skate Environment and Activity

The environment where you skate has an impact on the lifespan of your inline skates. People who skate outdoors and in wet environments may need to replace their skates more often. Common skate activities that accelerate the wear and tear on your skates include aggressive skating and skating at outdoor skate parks. The ground is often much harsher on your wheels than indoor rinks.

Consider the environment you skate in and the activity you do while skating when choosing inline skates. It’s important to find skates meant specifically for your desired activity. This is necessary to prolong the life of your skates. Be sure to take good care of the skates you choose, including regular maintenance and cleaning. 

Inline Skates in Westminster

If you are considering new skates, check out the selection at Crazy Skates. They have a wide variety of inline skates made from high-quality materials. Check out their selection online today! 

Skating is a great activity that can level up your fitness game. Inline skates are great for intermediate to advanced skaters. However, inline skates are also a great form of exercise for those just starting out who want a challenge. The learning curve can be passed through fairly easily with time and practice. There are several different kinds of inline skates. The type that is right for you depends on what you want to do. What are the different types of inline skates? Below, you will find the various types and what they are specifically used for.

What Are the Different Types of Inline Skates?

There are several different types of inline skates. Consider the following before you decide which ones are right for you.

Fitness Skates

Fitness skates are great for advanced skaters who want to increase their speeds. These are great for skaters who want to skate longer distances and high speeds. If you are considering using inline roller skates to improve your physical health, fitness skates are a top choice.

Recreational Skates

Recreational inline skates are geared more toward beginners. For those who skate on occasion or are just starting out, recreational skates offer comfort and stability. They can be used on most surfaces with ease, including both indoors and outdoors.

Freestyle Skates 

Adventurous skaters who partake in precision skating styles should choose freestyle skates. They are great for activities such as skate dancing and free jumping. They have small wheels and a hard shell. This makes them a safe and effective inline skate option for those who do more adventurous activities while skating.

Speed Skates

Speed inline skates are an excellent option for fitness skaters who want to take their skating to a whole new level. Also, speed skates are highly beneficial for both distance and speed. They have features that complement their use as they are light and flexible. Speed skates often do not have a brake, so they should be used by advanced skaters.

Aggressive Skates

If you enjoy spending time at the skate park doing off jumps and sliding on rails, aggressive skates are the top choice among skaters. Aggressive skates can bring your skating to the next level. However, just like speed skates, they should be used by advanced skaters. Their features are meant to ensure you can reach all of your skate goals with ease.

Benefits of Inline Skating

Inline skating is a great form of exercise. It is also a fun way to spend your time. Experts agree that inline skating is a great way to get in shape. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. The organization also recommends two days of muscle-strengthening activity. Inline skating can help you easily achieve this goal.

Inline skating offers several benefits that can transform your body. It improves lower body strength, strengthens your stabilizer muscles, and is good for your heart. Nearly half of Americans over 20 have some form of cardiovascular disease. Inline skating is a great way to reduce your risk for chronic conditions. In addition to improving your heart health, inline skating is beneficial for balance and coordination. This can activate and strengthen your core muscles.

Inline Skate Shop

Both beginner and advanced skaters can find everything they need at the top inline skate shop. The selection at Crazy Skates is unparalleled, as they have something for everyone. From kids and adults to occasional and advanced skaters, you can find inline skates, quad skates, and all the related gear. Check out their selection online today to get started on your skating journey!

Inline skating is a great form of exercise and fun physical activity. People of all ages and physical activity levels can participate. Skating has become increasingly popular recently due to the nostalgic nature of skating. It’s also an activity that comes with a number of benefits. Inline skates are reasonably priced and long-lasting if you take care of them. You may wonder, how long do inline skates last? Below, you will find more information about how to care for your skates.

How Long Do Inline Skates Last?

Inline skates can last anywhere from 1 to 20 years. There are several factors that impact their longevity. Consider the top factors that impact the lifespan of your inline skates.

Type of Skate: 

The type of inline skate you purchase is a key factor in how long your skates will last. Choose an inline skate from a reputable online roller skate store. This ensures that the materials are high-quality. Quality materials can withstand the natural wear and tear that comes with inline skating.

Type of Activity: 

The type of activity you are doing while you skate has an impact on how long they last. If you are playing roller hockey, your skates may wear out sooner than if you are skating the beach boardwalk. Consider the activity you are doing and purchase skates that meet the demands of your activities.

Frequency of Use: 

Those who use their skates every day may notice wear and tear faster than those who skate weekly. The frequency of use makes a huge impact on how long your skates will last. If you use them often, be sure to check all of the parts regularly to determine if you need to replace anything. Oftentimes, you can replace certain parts of your skates without having to replace the entire pair.

Where You Skate: 

Where you skate can impact how long your skates last. If you are indoors and outside of the elements, they may last longer. This is because water, debris, and other things can cause excess wear and tear on your skates. Consider where you are skating and address the needs of your skates based on that to ensure they last.

Regular Maintenance: 

If you maintain your skates, they can last decades no matter what you are doing. Regularly assess the quality of your skates. Many times, you just need to replace certain parts. Whether it’s the wheels, laces, or any other part of your skate, they can be easily replaced and your skates are brand new.

Inline Skate Maintenance Tips

To ensure your skates last, consider the following inline skate maintenance tips.

• Regular Cleanings: Remove debris and moisture from your skates after each time you use them to prevent damage
• Regular Maintenance: Inspect and replace the wheels and bearings as needed on your inline skates
• Store Indoors: Keep your skates inside in a cool and dry area to prevent the elements from damaging your inline skates
• Rotate Your Wheels: Regularly rotating your wheels can evenly distribute wear, which ultimately improves the lifespan of your skates
• Avoid Water: Skating in water can be dangerous and can cause excess wear and tear on your inline skates

Online Skate Store

If your skates need to be replaced, check out the selection of skates and skate gear at Crazy Skates. They offer a wide selection of high-quality products made from the very best materials. Even if you don’t skate and are just looking for a new hobby, Crazy Skates has skates for everyone in the whole family no matter what your needs are. Check out their selection today to get started and buy kid’s inline online!