Hi!
So, I used to play hockey at school/uni, mostly on ‘banana’ rockered freestyle inlines.
Now I’m somewhat older - it’s been a while since I’ve been on blades, but I’ve regularly skated on ice, I would say I’m intermediate but more used to ice than tarmac.
My son is getting into in-line skating and I’d like to put on some wheels again so we can knock a puck about.
What would be a good (but not bank breaking) skate for me? I’d like a hockey stance but I’m thinking I might need something I can rocker (or just buy different wheel sizes I guess?).
Any suggestions hugely appreciated.
Right, so:
I spoke with a lot of people and eventually ended up chatting with someone who supplies a serious league.
He gave me loads of advice - I would’ve bought from him if they’d been able to get my size, but instead I got…
A pair of X3.5 Bauers. Bottom of the ‘Vapor’ range but there’s no way I need the top spec.
I could’ve gone with something even cheaper but these were at my budget and skates are something I vaguely recall not wanting to cheap out on.
I haven’t rockered. Just gone with the ‘hi-lo’ of 80-80-76-76.
Feels like flying. So smooth. I’m a bit Bambi still, until I get used to being on tarmac. Still training the lad with me wearing shoes until I feel confident enough to catch a fall like I can on ice.
Will report back with a longer term review if anyone’s interested.
Seems like a decent pair of skates, glad you found something that works well for you!
Can you maybe explain the wheel setup? I guess with 80-80-76-76 you are referring to different sizes; what benefits do you gain from this arrangement compared to a flat setup?
If you like to, please do!
Ah yes, so 80-80-76-76 is wheel diameter in mm. Back 2, to front 2 wheels.
Pitches your weight forward in an aggressive or ‘ready’ stance much as you would in hockey, with a stick etc.
Comes into its own when sprinting too.
I see, that makes sense! Thanks!