How to Choose Derby Skate Wheels
- 1). Determine where you will be practicing and competing and how much traction you want while skating. Choose rough wheels for skating outside, slick for indoor if you're a confident skater, non-coated for sport courts and coated/grippy for indoor if you want more control. Mix different wheel finishes on one skate if desired.
- 2). Weigh yourself. Identify which weight category you are in: featherweight (under 110 pounds), lightweight (111 to 129 pounds), middleweight (130 to 159 pounds) or heavyweight (more than 160 pounds).
- 3). Choose softer wheels if you're in a lighter weight class and harder wheels if you're in a heavier weight class. Select wheels with the desired surface finish and necessary wheel density.
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