How to Select Men's Quad Skates
Quad skates are roller skates with four wheels arranged in groups of two at the front and rear of the skate. Skaters use quad skates for a variety of activities, including recreation and fitness, artistic figure skating, hockey or extreme stunts and tricks. To properly perform these activities, you must take the time to find the best skates for your needs. When choosing men's quad skates, consider factors such as size, style, appearance and function before making your final purchase decision.
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Instructions
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Compare color and style options. Men's quad skates typically come in black or brown, but many custom colors are available. Those looking to participate in artistic figure skating can choose black suede or leather, while recreational skaters can select from a wide variety of styles. Choose a design that is appropriate for your skating goals, but also represents your personality.
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Decide what type of wheels you need. Those skating on indoor surfaces should look for very hard, fairly small wheels for speed and stability on slippery surfaces. Skaters who primarily skate outdoors should choose larger, softer wheels that can better accommodate rougher terrain.
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Consider whether to buy low- or high-top skates. High-top boots cover the ankle and offer more support for novice skaters. They also provide the support necessary for the jumps and spins involved in figure skating. Low-top boots tend to be more comfortable, and allow skaters to move more quickly and easily.
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Choose the right size. Men's quad skates should be fit for both length and width. Your shoe size typically is not the same as your skate size, so you'll need to carefully measure your foot to determine the correct size.
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Think about your skating goals. For recreational skating, consider sneaker-type skates for comfort and versatility. For hockey or freestyle skating, choose low-top boots with heavy-duty wheels and bearings. If you plan to figure skate, look for stiff high-top boots with built-in jump bars for extra support. If you will skate over aggressive outdoor terrains, choose skates with big, soft wheels and strong bearings to withstand these obstacles.
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Review plate options. Steel plates fasten to the base of the skate boot and hold the wheels in place. Single plates put the skater closer to the ground, and offer more stability for men new to the sport. Double plate models place the skater slightly higher and offer more versatility.
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Select the best toe stop. Large, bell-shaped toe stops are best for all purpose use, while small gripper units are used for speed skating. Figure skaters often use small, rounded stops to help with jumps, while some skaters prefer to replace the stop with a plug when performing figures or footwork.
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- Photo Credit Rollerskating image by Dawn from Fotolia.com
