Tuesday, February 3, 2015

A New Ability Is Available In The Skill Tree

I finally did it! I wrapped my head around crossovers! And it was startlingly easy!


I've been struggling with the transition and realized something from my one-legged drills: I spend 100% of the time on the outer edges of whichever skate I'm on. So I approach each cone constantly on the outer edge on both feet and suddenly it works like magic. I need to polish the movements and master it with my other foot in front, but this looks pretty solid.

Now to master skating backwards... -sigh-

Monday, February 2, 2015

Fresh Kit


So the pre-rockered frames I ordered finally came in, and I'm in love with them. I wasn't convinced when I heard that the difference is only 2mm, but I have the same precision and control as I did with flat frames on 76-80-80-76.

One problem I did notice, which has nothing to do with the frames themselves, is that they sit awkwardly forward on the boots. I compared them to photos of SEBA brand skates and they are indeed placed awkwardly. I'd assume that this might affect forward stability on the back side, but nothing major that can't be compensated for. It also makes tight cornering a lot easier, so it's appreciated even if I'm still skeptical of it.

Nonetheless, I'm sure that it's not an intended effect, so I've decided to rush my investment on new boots ASAP. I always intended to use my Rollerblades for street only use with 76-80-80-80 and my SEBAs for hybrid use.

Another complication is that it's a little more strenuous on my ankles. I'll have to spend time acclimating to the change, but the sooner I swap them onto boots they were intended for the better off I'll be.

Moral of the story: Try to match brands. Sometimes you get lucky and it's perfect. Other times, you get this.

But first: Ice Blades.