Understanding 72-72-80-80 Wheel Setup in Roller Hockey

Published
Photo of author
Written By Mark

A seasoned inline hockey player with over a decade of experience, Mark has competed at the amateur level and has a wealth of knowledge to share.

Understanding how does a 72-72-80-80 in roller hockey work can be quite the puzzle.

This unique wheel configuration is no stranger to those who play the sport, but for many, it remains an enigma.

When it comes to giving you a leg up on the court, this particular wheel configuration could be your key to success.

So let’s delve into what makes 72-72-80-80 such a crucial aspect of roller hockey and how you can leverage its benefits.

Inline Skating Basics: Understanding Your Equipment

If you’re new to inline skating, it’s crucial to understand your equipment.

The inline skates, a type of roller skate used for inline skating, are typically designed with two to five wheels arranged in a single line. Unlike traditional quad roller skates that have four wheels set up in pairs, the linear arrangement of these wheels is what gives them their name – ‘inline’.

A Closer Look at Inline Skate Components

In addition to the unique wheel arrangement, another distinguishing feature on many models is the rubber “stop” or “brake” block attached at the rear. This brake skate allows users control over slowing down and stopping during their ride – an essential aspect for beginners learning balance and speed management.

While all this might seem like standard information about any kind of wheeled footwear, such as hockey skates or general recreational ones, there is more history behind these popular sports gear than meets the eye.

The Rollerblade Influence

Rollerblade Inc., one company amongst many manufacturers producing inline skates today has had a significant influence on how we perceive this sport. In fact they were so successful in marketing their products back when they first launched that Rollerblading became synonymous with inline skating. 

Today even though ‘rollerblade’ is registered trademark owned by Rollerblade Inc., people often use it generically referring any brand’s product within this category due its widespread popularity.

This brief overview provides just enough insight into understanding your basic gear before diving deeper into advanced topics related to inline skating.

In our next section, let us explore something called rockering, which plays an important role in enhancing performance while using different types of configurations.

Key Takeaway: 

See also  Inline Hockey: Effective Techniques for Blocking Shots

Understanding your inline skating equipment is crucial, especially if you’re new to the sport. Inline skates have a unique wheel arrangement with two to five wheels in a single line, unlike traditional quad roller skates. They also often have a rubber brake block at the rear for beginners learning balance and speed management.

Rollerblade Inc., one of many manufacturers of inline skates, has had a significant influence on the sport. In fact, their success in marketing led to “Rollerblading” becoming synonymous with “inline skating.” This overview provides insight into basic gear before exploring advanced topics like rockering for enhanced performance.

The Art of Rockering in Inline Skating

As you deepen your rollerblading knowledge, understanding the concept of rockering becomes vital.

This technique allows skaters to adjust their wheel arrangement without changing wheel sizes – a crucial aspect when it comes to enhancing performance and maneuverability on inline skates typically used for hockey or other high-speed activities.

Achieving HiLo Rocker Configuration

But how does one achieve this coveted configuration?

You might be familiar with pre-rockered frames like those found in the Salomon FSK EA series.

These types of setups allow you to experiment with different configurations by simply rotating your wheels.

Tips from Experts:

  1. To start off, try placing smaller 72mm wheels at positions one and two (counting from front), while using larger 80mm ones at three and four. This is known as a “Hi-Lo” setup – hence the term ‘rockering’.
  2. If that doesn’t suit your style, don’t fret. You can always opt for full Hi-Lo rocker configurations where all four wheels are not touching flat surfaces simultaneously but instead provide an arc-like feel similar to ice-skate blades.

Wheel Rotation and Maintenance: Prolong Your Skate Life

In addition to improving skate handling through rockering techniques, regular maintenance such as wheel rotation also plays a significant role in prolonging skate life.

Rear wheels often wear out faster than front ones due largely because they bear more weight during skating sessions unlike roller skates which distribute load evenly across all corners. Regularly rotating part-worn rear wheels towards front axle height position helps even out wear rate thereby extending overall lifespan considerably longer compared against leaving them untouched throughout usage period.

Whether beginner or experienced player alike there’s plenty learn improve upon within world inline skating so why wait? Get started today explore various possibilities available right under feet.

Key Takeaway: 

Discover the art of rockering in inline skating and how it can enhance your performance on rollerblades. 

Achieve a Hi-Lo rocker configuration by using smaller 72mm wheels at positions one and two, and larger 80mm wheels at positions three and four. 

Learn about wheel rotation and maintenance to prolong the lifespan of your skates.

Choosing Your Wheel Sizes

In the world of inline skating, selecting appropriate wheel sizes is crucial. It’s not just about speed and agility; it also impacts your control on different surfaces.

The Importance of Correct Wheel Size in Inline Skating

Different types of skating activities require varying wheel sizes for optimal performance. For instance, general recreational skating typically uses 80-90 mm wheels to ensure a smooth ride over various terrains.

See also  Exploring the Fundamental Techniques in Inline Hockey

However, when it comes to hockey skates or other specific forms of inline sports, you may need a unique configuration like 72-72-80-80. This arrangement allows players greater maneuverability while maintaining stability during fast-paced games.

Finding The Right Balance: Axle Height And Diameter

A key factor that influences the choice between larger or smaller wheels is axle height – the distance from ground level to where your foot rests on the skate frame. Larger diameter wheels raise this height but provide more speed due to their longer roll per revolution.

The Impact Of Different Configurations On Performance

  1. Larger Wheels (100mm+): These are ideal for marathon runners who aim at achieving high speeds with less effort over long distances.
  2. Middle Range (84 – 90mm): Perfectly suited for fitness enthusiasts seeking moderate speeds without compromising too much manoeuvrability.
  3. Smaller Wheels (>): These are commonly used for aggressive skating or tricks, as they offer enhanced maneuverability and control.

In essence, understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions regarding which type of inline skates, including size configurations, best suits your personal style.

As we move forward into our next section, let us explore some reliable sources both online and offline where beginners can buy their first pair of inline skates and experienced players can upgrade their gear.

Key Takeaway: 

Choosing the right wheel sizes is crucial in inline skating. It’s not just about speed and agility, but also control on different surfaces.

Different types of skating activities require varying wheel sizes. 

For hockey skates or other specific forms of inline sports, a unique configuration like 72-72-80-80 may be needed for greater maneuverability and stability during fast-paced games.

Axle height, which influences the choice between larger or smaller wheels, is an important factor to consider. 

Larger diameter wheels provide more speed due to their longer roll per revolution.

Understanding these factors helps make informed decisions regarding which type of inline skates and size configurations best suit personal style.

Where to Buy Your Inline Skating Gear

Finding the right inline skates can be a game-changer for your roller hockey experience.

The type of skate you choose, whether it’s pre-rockered or flat configurations like 72-72-80-80, greatly influences how you maneuver on the rink.

Purchasing at Local Skate Shops

Your local well-stocked skate shop is an excellent place to start looking for quality gear.

A physical store allows you to try different sizes and styles before making a purchase decision.

This will assist those new to the sport in understanding what they should be mindful of when selecting their initial set of skates.

Online Shopping: A Convenient Alternative

If visiting a brick-and-mortar store isn’t feasible, online shopping offers convenience without compromising variety.

They also provide comprehensive sizing guides so you can find the perfect fit from home.

See also  Perfecting Your Moves: How to Skate in Roller Hockey

Tips For Online Purchases:

  1. To ensure proper fitting while purchasing inline skates online, measure your foot length accurately as per instructions provided by sellers.
  2. Different brands might have varying size charts; always check specific brand guidelines before placing an order.
  3. In case of any doubts regarding brake skate configuration or rear wheels’ setup etc., don’t hesitate reaching out customer support teams who are usually very helpful in such scenarios.

Remember that investing time in finding suitable equipment today pays off with improved performance tomorrow. Whether choosing between part-worn wheels or new ones – make sure they suit your skating style perfectly.

Tips for Improving Your Inline Skating Skills

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rollerblader, refining your abilities is critical.

The journey to becoming proficient in inline skating involves mastering the basics and advancing to more complex techniques like rockering.

Basics of Inline Skating: Building A Solid Foundation

Before attempting advanced maneuvers on your hockey skates, it’s essential to grasp basic rollerblading knowledge first.

Moving Beyond The Basics: Rockering Knowledge And Wheel Rotation Techniques

To enhance their performance, many seasoned players apply rockering techniques on their inline skate.

In addition, maintaining optimal wheel arrangement requires regular wheel rotation which not only extends the lifespan of your wheels but also improves ride quality significantly.

Finding Reliable Resources For Learning Advanced Techniques In Roller Hockey:

If you are looking for expert advice and resources on how to improve in roller hockey, USA Hockey offers various programs designed specifically for this purpose.

Purchasing Appropriate Gear From Well-Stocked Skate Shops:

Selecting appropriate gear from well-stocked skate shops plays a significant role in improving one’s performance as different activities require specific types of equipment such as varying wheel sizes ranging from 72-72-80-80 depending upon individual needs and preferences.

Remember – practice makes perfect. Keep honing those skills until they become second nature.

FAQs in Relation to How Does a 72-72-80-80 in Roller Hockey Work

Why do my rollerblades have 2 different size wheels?

This is likely a HiLo setup, often used in hockey skates for agility and speed. The smaller front wheels offer maneuverability while the larger rear ones provide propulsion.

What is the banana rocker setup?

The banana rocker setup has both ends of your inline skates raised slightly off the ground. This configuration enhances maneuverability and control during tricks or slalom skating.

What is a balanced rocker?

A balanced rocker uses four same-sized wheels with two middle ones touching the ground. It provides an ideal balance between stability and agility, suitable for freestyle skating.

How many periods are there in roller hockey?

In traditional roller hockey games, there are three periods each lasting about 15 minutes with intermissions between them.

Conclusion

Inline skating is more than just strapping on a pair of skates and gliding away.

The equipment matters, from the type of inline skate to its wheel configuration.

Rocking isn’t some fancy move but an essential adjustment technique for your wheels.

How does a 72-72-80-80 in roller hockey work? It’s not as complex as it sounds, once you’ve mastered the art of rockering and wheel rotation.

Your choice in wheel sizes can make or break your performance. And remember, maintaining them well extends their lifespan too!

You don’t have to go far for quality gear; local shops and online stores are aplenty. But knowing what suits you best comes with understanding your needs first.

No matter how advanced or basic your skills may be, there’s always room for improvement – practice makes perfect after all!

Our project dedicated to helping both beginners learn the basics and experienced players level up their skills in inline hockey awaits you.

Now that you have discovered how does a 12-12-80-80 in roller hockey work at World Inline Hockey, why not explore more resources on our site?