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If you're debating whether to buy new inline skates or simply replace your wheels, you’ve come to the right place.
Are your current skates too worn to warrant an upgrade, or are your current skates perfectly broken in, while the wheels have gotten too worn? Below, we’ll help you make an informed decision by highlighting key factors to consider when choosing between new inline skates or replacement wheels.
Overview
When to Replace Inline Skate Wheels
Replacing just the wheels can extend the lifespan of your skates and enhance their performance significantly. Consider getting new wheels if your current wheels are worn down, while the skates are in otherwise good condition. With new wheels, you can also tweak the riding characteristics of your skates.
Reasons to Buy New Inline Skate Wheels
You Are Happy With Your Current Inline Skates
Breaking in new skates takes time. If you’re already comfortable with the fit and feel of your current pair, and if there’s still life left in the boots and frames, replacing the wheels is a great option.
Your Inline Skate Wheels Are Worn or Damaged
Over time, wheels wear down, crack, or lose their grip, affecting your speed and control. Replacing your wheels will make your inline skates roll smoothly again and improve the overall performance of your skates.
You Want To Improve Speed and Maneuverability
The quality and size of your wheels greatly impact your speed and turning ability. Opting for high-quality replacement wheels will give you the sensation of skating on a brand-new pair and allow you to go faster.
You Want the Most Cost-Effective Upgrade
Wheels account for up to 80% of the value of a pair of inline skates. Some manufacturers may use lower-quality inline wheels to reduce costs, which may impact performance. Investing in high-quality replacement wheels can make your skates feel like a more premium model without the need for completely new inline skates.
Do your wheels still have plenty of rubber left? If so, you might only need to rotate them. If you haven’t done this before, you’re about to discover the secret to extending the life of your inline skate wheels. Don’t hesitate:
When to Buy New Inline Skates
Ultimately, the decision to buy a new pair of inline skates is yours. However, if you're looking for some compelling reasons to invest in a fresh pair instead of upgrading your current setup, we’ve compiled a few below.
Reasons to Buy New Inline Skates
Your Current Skates Are Poor Quality or Worn Out
If your existing skates are low-quality or badly worn, it might be better to upgrade to a new pair. New models often come with features that might lead to better performance and a completely improved and transformed experience on inline skates.
Many of Your Parts Need Replacement
When the boots, bearings, or other components are worn out simultaneously, it might be worth investing in a completely new pair of skates rather than upgrading with after-market parts. If this is the case, you will save time and won’t have to worry about compatibility issues.
Improved Skill Level
If your skating skills have advanced, a higher-quality pair of skates will help you perform better. New skates are designed with improved technology and materials, tailored to different skill levels.
Great Deals (An Offer You Can’t Refuse)
If a shop offers a significant discount on new inline skates, you can take advantage of the deal. In some instances, the cost of new skates might be comparable to premium wheels alone. You can even use the wheels from the new skates to upgrade your existing pair.
Conclusion and Further Reading
Deciding between new inline skates and replacing your wheels comes down to the overall condition of your skates and your skating needs. If your boots, bearings, and other parts are in good shape, replacing the wheels is a cost-effective solution to improve performance. However, if your skates are worn so much that it impedes your performance, it’s probably time to consider a new pair.
When choosing new wheels, look for options that match your skating style and desired speed. With the right set of replacement wheels, you can enjoy a smoother ride, better grip, and increased durability, making your old skates feel like new again.
Need help finding the right replacement wheels for your inline skates? Check this guide:
Unsure if you could do with a bit of maintenance and wheel rotation? Here’s help:
