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FR UFR Street AP 65mm Black

FR1 84

Powerslide Next Charcoal 90

Slope Killer 5X90 downhill frame

Powerslide Imperial Black Red 110

Seba High Light

FR - SKATES BACKPACK 30L - BLACK

FR speed/race frame for 125 mm wheels

Wizard wheel pack 100/80mm 85A

Powerslide Doop Yellow Sunrise 100

Custom skates! The best doesn't exist (but there always is better)

If you are new to skating, this might not be for you, but for everyone who has had a few pairs of skates before: Do you know that feeling of not finding exactly what you want? Well, I have good news! There is a solution for this problem.
It isn't the cheapest option - which is why I don't recommend it to new skaters - but there is a lot of room to play around here, which gives you the option to really dial in on what you want and get the best equipment for your money.

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Custom skates: A quick breakdown

Custom skates offer one of the best ways to familiarise yourself with all the components and their strengths. However, it can also be time-consuming and require effort to achieve the right setup. To assist you along the way, here's a guide that might prove helpful.

• Boot

  Let's begin with the part you'll likely use the most. Even if you decide to change the frame later, you'll probably stick with the boot you already have. Therefore, we recommend visiting a physical store to try out a few boots. I suggest opting for a hardshell boot with a replaceable cuff. This allows for more customisation, and you can swap out the cuff if it breaks, enhancing its longevity. Another advantage of hardshells is the ability to replace the liner, improving the overall fit.

• Liners

  Selecting the right liner can be tricky since each liner fits differently in every shell (the hard outer part of your boot). This makes customisation more challenging but equally enjoyable. Pay attention to the size and thickness of the liners. For instance, the FR1 liner may feel uncomfortable in the powerslide NEXT shell due to its thickness. On the other hand, a thinner FR intuition liner in your normal size might enhance the feeling of the NEXT boot. Many aggressive skates can benefit from a MyFit liner, known for being heat-mouldable and providing a great feel for aggressive skating.

Frame

Your frame is, next to your boot, the most important part in determining the feel of your ride. Check the Sliding Tiger blog for more detailed guides, but here's a quick overview: ensure it's compatible with the mounting standard used on your boot (normally 165mm with a raised heel for freeride and freestyle, UFS for aggressive and trinity for Powerslide's patented system). The wheelbase (length) of the frame, along with whether it's flat or rockered, influences manoeuvrability. Popular aftermarket frames include Endless, Wizard, NN, and Oysi.

• Bearings

  Now, let's discuss bearings. They determine how smoothly you can ride and can be chosen based on different goals. For rain or wet conditions, go with rustproof bearings or ceramics. In dry conditions, consider ABEC 7 or 9 for a good balance of price to performance. Wicked, a Powerslide daughter brand, is the standard for bearings, but others prefer twincam for its two metal shields and its MW standard (comparable to ABEC). According to some team members, twincam bearings also provide a smoother ride.

• Wheels

  Finally, let's talk about wheels. Choosing the right wheels can be challenging since everyone has different preferences. It's mainly about trial and error to find what suits your style. Some team members prefer FR speed and UnderCover team wheels for their balance between sliding ability and grip. Others enjoy adding a unique look to their skates with LED or firestone wheels.

I hope this guide excites you to explore and find what fits you personally. While I can't provide a guide that is clearer or easier to follow, remember that skating is a highly personal adventure, and no two people have the same feet, making it even more challenging to create a comprehensive guide. If you have specific questions, I recommend making some friends in the skating scene and asking them about their experiences. read more

Custom skates: An example

Ever thought about upgrading your skates or putting together a custom set that's totally you? Well, I recently got my hands on the NN dragon+ frame and, of course, I went for the best in the market with such an amazing frame.

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Navigating the Chill

As the weather starts becoming rainier and the roads more often wet, inline skaters need to adapt their approach to glide gracefully through the changing seasons. While the allure of brisk air and the crunch of leaves under your wheels may be tempting, it's crucial to recognize the unique challenges that autumn and winter bring to the world of inline skating. In this blog post, we'll explore the potential dangers and offer some valuable tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable skating experience.

• Quick and Short Pushes for Slippery Roads

  The first rule of autumn and winter inline skating: adjust your push. The roads can be treacherously slippery, so those long and powerful pushes you're used to might not be your best friend during these seasons. Opt for quick, short pushes to maintain better control over your movements. This adjustment will help prevent unexpected slips and slides, keeping you on your feet and out of harm's way.

• Watch Out for Leaves and Wet Metal Surfaces

  Leaves are some of the most dangerous things you regularly encounter during autumn skating adventures. Unlike on a bike, they will absolutely mess you up while skating. They turn any road into an absolute nightmare to ride on since they take away any grip you would have had on the road.
  Textured metal plates like manhole covers on the other hand are difficult terrain because of a combination of a lack of grip and your wheels getting caught easily in the textured surface, forcing your foot in a different direction.

• Rain Trousers: A Must-Have for Dry and Warm Legs

  Rain is a frequent companion during the autumn months, and winter often brings its fair share of slush and (hopefully) snow. To protect both your pants and keep your legs warm, invest in a good pair of rain trousers. These will shield you from the elements, allowing you to enjoy your skating sessions without worrying about damp clothes or the biting chill.

• It: Keeping Rain at Bay

  Picture this: you're cruising along, raindrops tapping a rhythmic melody on your helmet. While the sensation can be poetic, it's not always practical. Invest in a snug cap to keep rain out of your face. Not only does this small addition help maintain visibility, but it also adds an extra layer of protection against the cold. Opt for a water-resistant material to maximize the effectiveness of your cap in wet conditions.

• Distances: A Crucial Consideration

  Autumn leaves and winter precipitation can significantly extend your braking distance. Keep this in mind and adjust your speed accordingly. Take a more conservative approach when approaching intersections or downhill stretches, giving yourself ample time to brake safely. Being mindful of your braking distance can prevent accidents and ensure a smooth, controlled ride.

• Guarding Against the Winter Wind

  As the temperatures drop, so does the risk of wind chill. Don't forget to protect your neck from the biting winter winds. A scarf, neck gaiter, or a specialized windproof neck guard can make all the difference, keeping you warm and shielded from the harsh elements.
 
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