Need advice on new skates

[fzs1000]

I am going to replace my K2 Flight 76's that have about a billion miles on them. Since the last time I have shopped for skates it seems that some things have changed and now I am unsure what to get.

Over the years I upgraded the bearings a few times and moved to 80mm harder wheels. I am 6'4" and 250 lbs. My existing skates are size 13.

The type of skating I do is on a long winding paved path that is fairly smooth but it does have some rough spots occasionally. I go fast sometimes but that is not the primary goal because sometimes it gets crowded. I am looking for a smooth ride that is comfortable. I won't play hockey or get agressive in them. I don't want 5 wheels, either, as I have tried them either and I don't like the extra length of the frame.

What about the K2 MOD 8.5? Or the Salomon TR Magnesium?

What about the K2 vs Salomon shorter boot models? I can't remember their model names but they appear to be designed to compete with each other?

Thanks for your advice.

[IW Staff]

Thanks for the post!

I included a link of all size 13.0 skates currently in stock or at worst available.
http://www.inlinewarehouse.com/styleproducts.html?styleref=29870

My recommendation if wanting a quick, but not extended frame skate would be to go with the Salomon Pilot 9. It is a 4 wheel, but on the high-end. The K2 Mod Lt is also a fast skate that is available if wanting to stick with K2. It is a 2003 model that is on clearance, so you can pick it up cheap. One of the quicker 4-wheel skates is the Rollerblade Lightning 05. It has 4 wheels, but an extended chassis that gives you a ton of speed while not giving up too much control like that of a 5-wheel. My choices for your type of skating would the Pilot 9 Pro ($209) or the Pilot 9Ti ($159).

Thanks again.

Stan @ IW

[designerontherun]

Hi,
I'm also thinking about buying some new skates but not sure which ones. My skating skills are probably at the intermediate stage and do mostly recreational skating on footpaths. But I'd like to try more urban skating (no grinding or tricks, just around town stuff) and maybe some hockey. So I guess I'm looking for a crosstrainer skate if that exists :) I've looked at the Salomon FSK range - the Deemax maybe?? on your site and they look great. The problem is there isn't a store locally (perth, australia) where I can try one on in my size (ladies US size 7) is there a skate that's similar that I can try that would be able to give me an idea of fit. Also my foot arches are not great so I usually have an insole for comfort, would the Deemax be ok with that?

I'm just guessing that the Deemax is what I need but is it too advanced for me and I should consider other brands or models?

Please help and thanks!!
cheers
sharon

[fzs1000]

What is the difference in quality between the K2 MOD 8.5 and the Salomon Pilot 9? It seems like these 2 are meant to go head-to-head but the price difference is pretty big.

How about the Salomon TR Mag (size 12.5). That seems like a good skate for the money...what is your opinion?

Thanks!

[IW Staff]

The skate specs will tell you all you need to know. The Mod 8.5 has 84mm wheels which are big and fast. That would be the main difference. Bearings will be the next.

Boot styles are pretty much personal preference, so that is hard to tell someone which will be better for them. The TR Mag is a great skate. It's on clearance so the price is nice as well.


IW Staff

[designerontherun]

Hi,
I'm also thinking about buying some new skates but not sure which ones. My skating skills are probably at the intermediate stage and do mostly recreational skating on footpaths. But I'd like to try more urban skating (no grinding or tricks, just around town stuff) and maybe some hockey. So I guess I'm looking for a crosstrainer skate if that exists I've looked at the Salomon FSK range - the Deemax maybe?? on your site and they look great. The problem is there isn't a store locally (perth, australia) where I can try one on in my size (ladies US size 7) is there a skate that's similar that I can try that would be able to give me an idea of fit. Also my foot arches are not great so I usually have an insole for comfort, would the Deemax be ok with that?

I'm just guessing that the Deemax is what I need but is it too advanced for me and I should consider other brands or models?

Please help and thanks!!
cheers
sharon

[IW Staff]

The Deemax or Crossmax even would be great skates. They'll only go as fast as you make them go so don't worry too much about getting something you can't handle. As an intermediate skater, you'll be able to handle pretty much anything and you'll only get better.

Both these FSK skates are great. They are sized in men's, so you'll need to get size 5.5-6.0US to fit. Unfortunately sizing is preference so it is hard to tell which would be best for you.

I like the Crossmax skate a little better and the prices are way down on both so they are a good pickup right now.

Thanks for the post !!

Stan @ IW

[designerontherun]

Thanks Stan for your advice! you guys are great :D

Are you still able to get Deemax3 in 5.5? (More for budget reasons)
May I ask why you prefer xmax3? is there a big difference?

My other concern is the weight of the skate - is it really noticeable as you skate, coming from softboot skate I guess it seems heavy...or will I just get used to them?

sorry to be a pain asking all these questions!!
:oops:

Much appreciated
sharon

[IW Staff]

Sorry for the delay. Took a small vacation. The Deemax 3 is not available in 5.5 any longer. Sold out. 4.5, then next size is 6.5.

I just like the frames and wheel size on the Xmax3. You can always switch frames and wheels, but that is expensive. So getting them from the get go is always nice.

Thanks again!

Stan

[designerontherun]

Thanks heaps stan!
You'll receive my order very soon :o

Can't wait! and thank you for your fantastic service!

sharon

[designerontherun]

Hi Stan,
Just wanted to thank you for all your help and I received by skates right on time!

They're fab and I've been skating on them practically every day:) Many thanks and have a great festive season!

cheers
sharon