Need skate advice -- RB10s

[rpger001]

Hi,

I recently started skating again after a long layoff and need new skates as my current skates are quite old and falling apart.

I am leaning towards the RB10s over the Twister 80s but have some questions.

I had been looking at the Twisters before I realized how much shorter they were than my old Rollerblade Macros (circa 1990s). I like the idea of the Twister's increased maneuverability but I am fine with my current skate's maneuverability so think I should keep the frame length I am used to. I presume it helps with stability and maybe handling the bumps of the road.

My current skate is about the same size frame-wise as the RB10. The wheels are a lot smaller at 76mm, 78A.

I have a few of questions. Based on my current skate, do I lose some maneuverability by going up in wheel size? I am guessing that frame length may have more to do with it than the wheel size.

I know the RB10 will be a faster skate than I am used. I am worried it could be too fast. Typically, I prefer lots of turning and slower skating over fast though I hope to do some trails once the weather warms up. I am just an okay skater though I am improving.

Lastly, are you aware if Rollerblade is continuing or changing the RB10 for 2011? I read somewhere that Rollerblade does not roll out its entire new line till Jan/Feb.

Thanks in advance.

– Jon

[IW Staff]

For recreational skating (trails, sharp turns and cruising through town) I would recommend the Twister 80 urban skates. For longer faster skates the RB-10 skates will allow you to have a longer stride and maintain a faster speed much easier.

Twister 80
http://www.inlinewarehouse.com/descpage-T80M.html

Rollerblade RB-10
http://www.inlinewarehouse.com/Rollerblade_RB10_Urban_Inline_Skates_2010/descpage-RB764.html

For a softer boot check out K2's Moto 84:
http://www.inlinewarehouse.com/K2_Moto_84_BOA_Inline_Skates_for_Men_2011/descpage-I11007.html

Welcome back to the wonderful world of inline skating! Let us know if you have any other questions!

[Fraud Lawyer]

My 14 year old son has just developed an interest in in-line skating. How do I know where to start? What's good and what's not? He is still growing so I want to be fair but not extravagant

[IW Staff]

Rollerblade and K2 are great brands. Just starting out and/or growing it makes sense to start out with a recreational skate. Many finish there as an advanced skater can enjoy these skates as well.

How young are we talking? What Size?

The Rollerblade Spitfire Models are great for kids. Any of the adjustables on here are good qualify. Bladerunner being the cheapest but a Rollerblade brand so quality isn't bad. K2 and RB a bit better though.
http://www.inlinewarehouse.com/Adjustable_Inline_Skates_for_Boys/catpage-FITJRSKATEB.html

The Spark 80 or XT for beginning adults.
http://www.inlinewarehouse.com/Rollerblades_Spark_80_Inline_Skates_Mens_2011/descpage-1S80M.html

http://www.inlinewarehouse.com/Rollerblades_SpiritbladeXT_Inline_Skates_Mens_2011/descpage-1XTM.html