Written by Samantha Trayhurn.
If you're reading this, chances are you love skating just as much as we do! But, whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting out, there's a good chance you don't rotate your wheels as much as you should (don't worry, we are guilty too). This may seem like a small detail, but it can actually make a big difference in your skating experience.
First of all, let's talk about what happens to your roller skate wheels when you don't rotate them. Over time, the wheels on your roller skates will start to wear down unevenly. This is because the wheels are constantly being used in different ways - some wheels may be used more for turning, while others may be used more for cruising or doing tricks. This uneven wear can cause your wheels to become flat or misshapen, which can affect your ride in a number of ways.
For one thing, uneven wheels can make your ride less smooth. When your wheels are all the same size and shape, they work together to create a smooth, even ride. But when your wheels are uneven, they can create bumps and wobbles that can make it harder to stay balanced on your skates. This can be especially dangerous if you are trying to do tricks or skate at high speeds.
Uneven wheels can also affect your speed and manoeuvrability. When your wheels are uniform, they provide equal amounts of grip and slide. But when your wheels are uneven, some wheels may provide more grip than others, while others may provide more slide. This can make it harder to control your skates, especially when you are trying to turn or stop quickly.
So, how can you avoid these problems? The answer is simple - rotate your wheels regularly. When you rotate your wheels, you are essentially swapping the position of your wheels so that they wear down evenly. This helps to maintain the shape and size of your wheels, which in turn helps to create a smoother, more consistent ride.
But how often should you rotate your wheels? The answer to this question can vary depending on a number of factors, such as how often you skate, what type of skating you do, and how much wear and tear your wheels are experiencing. As a general rule, however, it's a good idea to rotate your wheels every month or so. Hard wheels will often wear faster, so it's more important to keep an eye on these to avoid flat spots. Softer wheels can be a little more forgiving, but still require regular maintenance.
When you rotate your wheels, you should also be mindful of the position of your wheels on your skates. Ideally, you want your wheels to be positioned so that the wear is distributed evenly across all four wheels. To do this, you can rotate your wheels in a crisscross pattern - for example, moving the front left wheel to the back right position, and the back right wheel to the front left position.
In conclusion, rotating your roller skate wheels is a simple but important step that every skater should take to maintain their skates and improve their skating experience. By keeping your wheels in good shape, you can enjoy a smoother, more consistent ride, and avoid the dangers of uneven wear and tear. So, the next time you hit the skating rink or skate park, be sure to take a few minutes to rotate your wheels first - your skates (and your body) will thank you for it!