How to Buy Your First Pair of Inline Skates
You Won't Get Far With Unhappy Feet

Yeah, I know: It's hard to find shops that rent inline skates these days. And buying your own may seem like a big investment, especially if you just want to give inline skating a try.

But if you don't start out on a good pair of skates, a pair that FITS RIGHT, you're skating career is likely to be short and bumpy.

Not only will ill-fitting skates give you blisters and sore ankles, but they'll make it more difficult for you to stay on your feet ... and invest you will all the grace of Godzilla.

Your skates should feel like a natural extension of your body. They should be snug enough to respond nimbly to your every command, and at the same time, loose enough so you can maintain happy feet.

In other words, your skates shouldn't wobble nor should they feel like a vice locked onto your feet.

The Rule of Fit

The rule to remember when renting or buying skates is this: When you put on your skates, your toes should lightly touch the front of the boot when you're legs are straight, but should NOT touch when your knees are bent. And of course, at all times your skates should be comfortable. If they are not comfortable in the store, they will likely be ten times less comfortable after an hour of skating.

Where to Find Them

So where are you going to find these nice fitting skates? Check the yellow pages under skates. Some stores still rent skates, although you may have to drive a few miles to pick them up. If there's an inline skate school in your area, sign up. They often provide skates to students. You might also call a skate instructor in your area. You can find one through the International Inline Skating Association . They will know what's available in your area.

If you can't rent skates, buy a good pair of recreational (not speed) skates. Rollerblade, K2, Roces and Salomon all make great skates. A good starter pair will set you back $100 to $200, but your feet will be happy and you'll skate better.

Now get out there and skate! ... But not before reading the other Top 7 Mistakes of Beginning Inline Skaters.

Links:

• The Beginners Guide

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Copyright © 2006 by Robert Burnson