trouble with new roller skates

Question
i brought a brand new pair of roller skates(quads)they have abec 1 bearings,the wheels are fattish & a bit soft when squeezed.the problem is that they go so slow.i use to use the skates at roller skating rings,& they are so fast
i dont know if i should get different wheels or bearings or both.could you please help
thankyou

Answer
Julie,
It is definitely your bearings. ABEC 1 bearings are for people who need to go very slow - children or someone who has a high fear quotient & is very hesitant about skating etc.
If you want to replace your bearings you must determine if they are  7mm or 8mm. Any skate shop should be able to make that determination for you, or if you are in the NYC area I carry wneels & bearings & would be glad to check out your skates & change the bearings for you. I would guess that they are 8mm.
Look for ABEC 3 or 5. It is not necessary to go higher than that with the wheels you have. Another good choice would be  China Bones bearings, a good moderately priced bearing used by many dance skaters I deal with, that are on a budget.
Soft wheels are comfortable for skating outdoors & are forgiving on the knees & shins. I don't particularly favor a fat wheel = they can be cumbersome depending on the kind of skating you are doing. I skate on a soft wheel, 78A durometer (hardness), but with Swiss Bones bearings (an excellent, high end bearing), they really move.
If you want to contact me, my number is 212 777-3232 & my email is [email protected].
I hope this helps you to get the most out of your skating.
Roll on!!!..........................Lezly (Lezly Skate School - estab. 1979) www.SkateGuru.com