Protecting Yourself

Skating is a versatile sport for all age groups and abilities, especially as a family pastime. There are several types of skating and some people will specialise in one type, such as ice skating, whereas other people will try all types of skating. Whichever type you try it can result in falls, with bruises and possibly breaks occurring, especially if you are fairly new to this pastime. Some skating activities, such as using inline skates, are much faster and can result in injury. Children in particular can suffer injuries so areas such as the head should be protected.

For anyone wearing the correct protective gear, injuries won’t be too bad and any vulnerable areas such as the head, elbows and knees will be cushioned. Statistics show that eighty two per cent of elbow injuries and eighty seven per cent of wrist injuries could have been prevented by wearing recommended protective wear.

Elbow and knee pads are relatively inexpensive and will prevent many grazed and cut knees and elbows. Even a small bruise as a result of a fall can result in long term muscle damage and protective wear is essential in the prevention of muscle damage. When you purchase your kids skates or inline skates, whichever you are buying, you should purchase protective gear at the same time. If you are new to skating and you are using rental skates you should purchase protective wear before going skating, especially as the first few times of skating are the times when you are most likely to fall.

Here at Skates.co.uk we are able to advise on the correct type of protective gear and provide a guide for the fitting of helmets. Our helmets all comply with the correct safety standards, as well as being good value for money. Your safety helmet should be checked regularly for any cracks or dents as this may make the helmet less effective in the event of a fall.