Roller blade brakes
Question
Hi, I am a very amateur skater, and I have an old pair of roller blades that I
loved because of the braking system, where I just had to apply pressure
forward into the toes and could slow down. I haven't been able to master
braking by lifting up the skate and dragging the heel. My old pair of roller
blades finally fell apart last year, but I can't find a new pair with a similar
braking system. Is there a name for my old kind of brake system? What
should I be asking for?
Thanks
Answer
Hi Bob,
I found an article that explain the various types of braking systems. It's easier for me to direct you to the web site rather than type it all here. This way you can learn about the different types and can best see which one was most like your old skates.
Just copy and paste this web address to your browser. If you have a problem, just let me know.
http://www.inlineonline.co.uk/brakes.htm
We all get use to certain things but if you have to get a skate with the other brake system, it's not very hard to get use to.
Here's what you have to do:
1) Stop pushing
2) Put the weight and the skate without the brake
3) Bend your knees
4) Slide the skate with the brake forward while gradually lifting the toe.
5) Apply increasing pressure to the heel until you stop.
I think the key to stopping with that type of brake is to keep your feet together then make sure you bend both knees before applying the brake. It keeps you from tipping backwards.
Good Luck with the new skates.
Pat
left ankle rolls inward while skating
bearing cover