Changing from roller derby skates to roller blades (also known as inline skates) involves a few different components that you’ll need to consider, including your skating skills, tools, and the steps to switch out the hardware. Roller derby skates typically have a quad configuration (four wheels in a two-by-two arrangement), while roller blades have wheels aligned in a single column along the frame of the skate. Here’s how you can switch from roller derby skates to roller blades.
Step 1: Evaluate Your Skating Skills
First, it’s important to understand that skating on roller blades can feel quite different from roller derby skates. Ensure that you are confident in your ability to balance on a single line of wheels and that you have adequate skills in stopping and turning, as these techniques can vary significantly between the two skate types.
Step 2: Purchase Inline Skates or Inline Skate Frames
You can either buy a complete set of inline skates or, if your roller derby boots are compatible, you can purchase just the inline frames and wheels to attach to your existing boots. Make sure the frames you purchase are the correct size for your boots and provide the stability you need for your skating style.
Step 3: Gather Your Tools
You’ll need some tools to make the conversion, typically including:
- An Allen key or a skate tool appropriate for the bolts on your skates.
- A screwdriver if your boots have screws instead of bolts.
- Wrenches for any nuts that need to be tightened or loosened.
Step 4: Remove the Quad Skate Components
Turn your roller derby skates over and use the tools to remove the trucks and wheels. This usually involves loosening the nuts that secure the trucks to the boot plate and sliding them out. Keep all parts and hardware in case you decide to switch back or need them for replacement parts in the future.
Step 5: Align and Attach the Inline Frames
Place your new inline frames against the bottom of your boots to line up the mounting holes. If your boots have pre-drilled holes that are compatible with the frames, you’re in luck. If not, you may need to drill new holes or utilize an adapter. Once lined up, use the appropriate bolts and nuts to secure the frames to your boots. Make sure they are tight, but avoid over-tightening, which can strip the threads or damage the boots.
Step 6: Install Wheels and Bearings
Insert bearings into your new wheels, if they’re not already pre-installed. Then, place the wheels onto the frames, securing them with the provided axles. Again, tighten them enough to ensure they are secure, but not so much that the wheels cannot rotate freely. Check each wheel to ensure there’s no excessive play and that they spin smoothly.
Step 7: Test Your New Roller Blades
Before going full speed ahead, test your newly assembled roller blades to make sure everything is functioning as it should. Start by skating slowly, testing your balance, stops, and turns. It’s recommended to do this in a controlled environment, like a rink, before taking them to a more unpredictable surface such as a sidewalk or street.
Step 8: Make Adjustments as Needed
After your initial test, you might need to adjust the tightness of the wheels or the frames’ alignment. Pay attention to any wobble or discomfort and adjust accordingly. Sometimes making small incremental adjustments makes a big difference in skate performance.
Tips:
- If you are not comfortable with this process, or if there are compatibility issues between your roller derby boots and the inline frames, it may be better to opt for purchasing a complete new set of roller blades.
- Always wear protective gear, such as a helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads, and knee pads when testing out new skating equipment.
- Remember that each skate system has its learning curve, so give yourself time to adapt to the feel and handling of roller blades.
It’s important to note that while some roller derby skates may accommodate a conversion to inline, many are not designed to do so. Always check with the manufacturer or an expert at a skate shop before attempting any modifications to ensure that your safety isn’t compromised.