If you want to skate faster, further and more efficiently, sooner or later you will come across two terms: speed skates and speed fitness skates. Both have large wheels and long frames, but they differ considerably in the boot, the support and the target group. In this guide you will find out what the differences are and which skate suits you.
Speed skates: for training, racing and marathons
Speed skates are designed for maximum power transfer. A low boot (low-cut) that ends just below the ankle is typical. The shell is usually made of carbon or a carbon composite and is very stiff, so that every push-off acts directly on the wheels. Padding is kept to the bare minimum.
- Wheels: usually 3 × 125 mm, 3 × 110 mm or 4 × 110 mm, for smaller feet also 4 × 100 mm or 4 × 90 mm
- Frame: long and light, usually made of aluminium, with a standardised mounting distance
- Fit: very tight and direct; many shells can be heat-moulded to the foot
- Brake: usually none – braking is done with technique
Speed skates are available as a complete skate or as a boot without a frame. If you buy the boot separately, you combine it with a suitable frame and the wheels of your choice. It is important that the mounting distance of the boot and the frame match (e.g. 195 mm or 165 mm or the Trinity system from Powerslide).
Speed fitness skates: fast and still comfortable
Speed fitness skates combine the large wheels of a speed skate with the comfort of a fitness skate. The boot has a higher cuff that supports the ankle, and a padded liner. It is closed with laces, a buckle or a dial closure.
- Wheels: often 3 × 110 mm, 3 × 100 mm, 4 × 100 mm or 4 × 90 mm
- Support: more lateral stability, which makes getting started easier
- Comfort: for long tours and fitness training without competitive ambitions
- Brake: fitted on many models or can be retrofitted
You will find a selection in our Speed fitness skates category.
Three or four wheels?
For the same frame length: three large wheels roll better over uneven tarmac, hold their speed longer and make the skate more manoeuvrable. Four smaller wheels feel somewhat steadier and sit lower, which gives beginners in particular a sense of security. You can read more about how diameter and hardness affect the feel of the ride in our guide Choosing the right inline skate wheels.
Which skate suits you?
| You … | Our recommendation |
|---|---|
| race regularly, skate marathons or train with a club | Speed skate with a low-cut boot |
| want to skate sportily and fast, but without competing | Speed fitness skate |
| are switching from a recreational skate to large wheels | Speed fitness skate with 3 × 100 mm or 4 × 90 mm |
| have narrow, wide or sensitive feet | Advice on fit, possibly Custom-Made Boots |
Fit matters more than any data sheet
A speed skate fits much more tightly than a recreational skate. The heel must not lift during push-off, and the toes should lightly touch the front without being cramped. It is best to measure your feet in the late afternoon or evening, when they are slightly swollen, and compare the measurements with our size chart. If you are prone to pressure points, you will find tips in our article Avoiding blisters and pressure points.
Personal advice
Not sure which skate suits your foot and your goals? We will be happy to advise you by phone on +49 (0) 77 20 / 34 70 6 or in person in our shop in Villingen-Schwenningen. You are also welcome to write to us using the contact form.
