Another Skate Recommendation

[Jordan137]

Hello,
After a 12 year lull, I am finally buying a new set of skates and need some help deciding which ones to buy. The last time I skated I had a pair of RB Macroblades. My purpose is primarily fitness (want to shed some 30 lbs.), although I love to move at higher speeds. However, I don't think a race skate is up my alley because I also want decent maneuverability--I won't be jumping curbs and dodging cars, but I would like to be able to crossover. I am considering the K2 Moto 90s, the new Moto 100 customs with moldable boot, and Bont's Alphas. I'm also concerned about size. My foot measures about 275 mm, but it's a little wide--not too much, just a little. The Rollerblades I had were always a little too tight. I really want comfortable skates above all, which is why I'm thinking K2's softboot or Bont's moldable Alphas. I hear K2 is a little wide, but I'm not sure if the stock Alphas can accomodate me after heating. Any thoughts? I'd love to hear as much feedback as possible, as I can't even look at any of these guys in person and am forced to buy online. IW's return policy is amazing, but I'd like to prevent ordering and returning 3 pairs of skates if necessary. Thanks for any advise you can offer.

Jordan

[IW Staff]

The Alpha skates will mold considerably so a wide foot isn't an issue there. If just getting back into it, the low cut at the cuff may deter you from skating as it works best for this with developed skating muscles that would not longer need that kind of support up top.

The RB's actualy fit a little wider than K2 these days. Hasn't always been the case. If a big person, the Fusion X7 is a good one as it is strong and sturdy. Still has 90mm wheels so the speed is nice. A little heavier than a soft boot skate, but great for all types of skating other than doing marathons.

If wanting something more ventillated, then possibly the Crossfire XT?

I hope this helps. If anything else, just hit me back and I can be more specific to any questions you may have.

Thank you!

[Jordan137]

Thanks for your reply. The Crossfire XT look pretty nice. Can I remove the brake if I want to? Oh man, but you guys won't have them for over a month!

What are your thoughts on the Platiunum RB 8s? The Speedmachine 90s?

I've heard that the Alphas don't have a steep learning curve and I really want to get a quality skate. Do you think I could get used to them in a week or two? I can still skate well, I just haven't on a regular basis for about a decade.

If my feet measure a maximum of 275 mm and I generally wear a size 10.5 shoe, would you suggest I get a 10.5 in Rollerblade skates? If I do go with the Alphas, what size do you suggest...9? 9.5?

Thanks for all your help. I want to order a pair over the next couple of days, so your advice has been very helpful. (By the way, I'm not a big person, just gained some pounds after marriage a few years ago and want to get rid of it!)

[IW Staff]

Bont would recommed a 9 to 9.5 for that measurement. They mold quite a bit.

As for the XT, and any skate for that matter, sizing is a preference. So only you can decide which fit is best for you.

The XT in 10.5 is not availble at RB. That's the reason for the prolonged arrival date. They very well may come in earlier, but understand we do not make the skates, but just sell them. We must on RB to get them here.

It's not uncommon for folks to order 1/2 size larger, but it is just as common to order true to size. A snugger fit will give you the best response, but if like myself, I like to have a little room for my toes at the end.

I'm sure you could get used to the Alpha skates after a while, sure. I've skated for a while and I prefer to keep some support up around my ankles. On longer skates I get lazy and that tends to help me out a bit. The Speedmachine 90 might be another to look at.

Depending on the size Alpha, it could be 3 weeks as well. Those come all the way from China.

Thanks

[Jordan137]

Thanks for your help. I have narrowed it down to the Crossfire XT and the Speedmachine 90/ 6.0. Are there any differences between the Speedmachine 6.0 of 2008 and the Speedmachine 90's of this year? Do they have the same liner, or are the 90s new? I tried on a pair of XTs this weekend and liked them a lot. Very comfortable, easy skating (and I prefer size 11). I'm just wondering if I should make the jump to the speedmachines now, or wait a year or so. How will the Speedmachine's do in a suburban neighborhood? I'm very tempted by the 6.0's because of the price you offer and am wondering what advantages I might notice between them and the Crossfires.

[IW Staff]

Not much. Some subtle boot differences, but basically the same. If able to still find your size in the 6.0, that would be the way to go in my opinion. 6.0 is an 08, the 90 a 2009 skate.

The XT's will give you a little bit more control with it's boot and cuff, but the Speedmachine nothing you can't handle in a suburban setting. Wheel size is the same, the speedmachines a bit faster which may not be what you need or want in the suburbs.

Thanks again!

[Jordan137]

Great! You gave me the exact info I was looking for. I took your advice and ordered the Speedmachine 6.0 skates. Thanks for all of your help in choosing these.

[IW Staff]

it's great to talk with skaters that are enjoying the sport.

Take care,
SC