My New K2 Power Rollerblades
I just bought a new pair of K2 Power Rollerblades today. The customer service at SportChek was just amazing. The pair I bought took me a very long time to choose. I tried on and tested various sizes and models of K2 for the right feel and fit.
Also, I only buy K2 rollerblades because I think they are simply the best and I would recommend them to anyone!
What I was looking for were a pair of rollerblades that were very durable so that they could withstand all the bumps of the roads. They had to offer a lot of stability and manoeuvrablity, especially when you need to turn or stop quickly. They have to be fairly fast. It’s nice to have speed when you need it. They also have to fit comfortably, look nice and be reasonably priced. In my opinion, I no longer think it’s worth buying a very expensive pair due to the quality of the roads and subsequent wear and tear on the blades. I think it’s better to buy a reasonably priced quality pair of rollerblades and then just replace them more often rather than an expensive pair and have to repair them frequently for the long-term. Also, I try to match the type of rollerblading I will do with the type of rollerblades I wish to buy.
How much did I pay? Well, they were on sale for $109.99. They only have ABEC 5 bearings and 80mm wheels, but I tested a pair with ILQ 7 bearings and 84mm wheels and I really didn’t notice a difference in the blading or comfort-level. I actually think that the ones I purchased are manufactured better and offer better stablility and a comfortable, smooth ride which I would not trade in for the extra speed of ILQ 7 bearings! Sure it was a tough choice for me to make: more speed or stick to the type of blades I am used to!
Anyway, for the majority of people, rollerblades with ABEC 5 bearings are more than sufficient. Unless you are really into speed and racing, these blades are perfect for the grind of city streets and pathways.
Also, these rollerblades are basically the same as my old pair for which I paid $179.99 or $199.99 about six years ago. I’m surprised they have lasted this long because I average about 1,200 kilometers annually. Actually, it’s because I’ve spent a lot of time maintaining and repairing them every year but it’s come to a point where all the patchwork may now comprise my safety, so it’s time to give-in and replace the old pair.
So basically I have discussed what I look for in a new pair of rollerblades. When you choose a make or brand of rollerblades consider what you are looking for in a pair of rollerblades based on the type of rollerblading you plan to do and and how much you wish to pay! Take the time to try on various makes to find the ones that offer you the best fit.
