Leisure and Fitness Inline Skating
Technical Terms and Vocabulary
When you dive into the fascinating world of recreational and fitness inline skating, you’ll quickly come across a variety of terms, abbreviations, and technical jargon that can often be confusing, especially for beginners.
But don’t worry—our comprehensive inline skating glossary will help you keep everything straight.
Whether you’re a beginner, an ambitious recreational skater, returning to the sport, or simply curious, our glossary will guide you step by step and equip you with the essential know-how.
Overview
Technical Terms and Vocabulary – Leisure and Fitness Inline Skating
Table of Contents
From trick names and technical terms to setup details, you'll find everything you need here to skate safely and stay informed.
Our alphabetically organized glossary lists explain the most important terms related to inline skating clearly and concisely—practical and ready to use right away.
The best part? We are continuously expanding our glossary.
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Technical terms for hardware in recreational and fitness inline skating (components)
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Basic terms and technical terms for skating techniques and trick descriptions in recreational and fitness inline skating
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The best part? Our glossary is continuously updated and expanded. This way, you'll always stay up to date with the latest in the inline scene and can learn about current trends, new techniques, or popular technical terms.
Vocabulary and Components – Fitness and Recreational Inline Skating
Technical terms for hardware in fitness and recreational inline skating
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3D Adapt Padding
The 3D Adapt Padding in inline skates is a special type of interior padding in the liner that is shaped in three dimensions to optimally adapt to the anatomical shape of the foot and ankle.
Inline skates with this padding promise great comfort. Please note that the overall shell shape of the skate should still be suitable for your foot (e.g., narrow, medium, or wide foot). -
45° Closure (45° Closure)
The 45° closure (also 45° Closure or Mid-Strap) in inline skates is a closure system that runs diagonally across the instep of the foot – i.e., at about a 45° angle between the toes and the shinbone. This closure plays an important role in support, power transfer, and comfort. -
ABEC / Ball Bearing Rating
ABEC stands for Annular Bearing Engineering Committee – it is an industry standard for assessing the precision and tolerance of ball bearings.
The ABEC classification indicates how precisely and exactly a ball bearing was manufactured.
The higher the ABEC value, the lower the manufacturing tolerances, the more efficient the rotation (less energy loss), and the potentially higher the achievable speed.
Warning: A higher ABEC value does not automatically mean that the bearing is "better". Many other factors also come into play, such as what material was used, the material quality, how well the ball bearing is sealed (ball bearing shield), what lubricant it has, etc. -
Axles
By axles, the screws are meant with which the wheels are attached to the frame of the inline skate. -
Ventilation
Ventilation describes the skate's ability to dissipate heat and moisture to the outside. It depends on both the material used and the number and placement of the ventilation openings, which ensure optimal air circulation. -
BOA
The term BOA in inline skates refers to the BOA® Fit System, an innovative closure system that works via a turning mechanism – instead of classic shoelaces, Velcro, or ratchet systems.
You turn a turning knob (often made of plastic or metal), which evenly tightens fine, high-strength cords (usually made of steel or Dyneema®).
To open: Pull or turn the knob (depending on the model), and the tension is released.
This allows a skate to be laced up very quickly. However, there is also a disadvantage: The shoelaces cannot be tightened and adjusted individually, e.g., slightly looser at the instep, tighter at the top and bottom. -
Brake (Brake)
A brake allows you to brake safely with inline skates without having to master special techniques or unnecessarily wear out your wheels. The most common brake variants are:
Heel brake (classic brake): Located at the rear end of a skate and activated by tilting the back foot.
Shaft brake: Triggered over the calf. When leaning back, the calf presses against a mechanism on the shaft, which activates the brake.
Synchro brake: A slider brake that is also activated over the calf. It brakes all wheels simultaneously and evenly – ideal for a particularly controlled stop. -
Buckle (Buckle)
The term buckle translates to a buckle with which an inline skate is fixed to the foot. The term buckle does not mean a specific buckle, but not a Velcro closure. -
Buckle Head (Buckle Lever)
The buckle head is the buckle head, i.e., the lever with which a buckle is closed. -
Buckle Holder (Buckle Holder)
The buckle holder – also called buckle holder – is used, for example, with Velcro closures or 45° closures. It serves as a mounting and fixation element through which the closure is guided and securely attached to the skate. -
Buckle Receptor (Buckle Receptor)
The buckle receptor (German: buckle receptor) is the counterpart to the buckle in a ratchet closure (buckle) on inline skates. It is the receiving element into which the serrated buckle strap is inserted and where it clicks into place when closed. -
Buckle Strap (Ratchet Strap)
The buckle strap is the serrated plastic strap of a ratchet closure. It is guided through the so-called receptor and fixed there in steps to close the skate securely and individually adjustable. -
Disc Closure
The term "Disc Closure" in inline skates refers to a turning closure system in which a round turning knob (disc) is used to close the skate evenly and precisely. This is often a brand-independent system that is visually and functionally similar to the BOA® system, but does not necessarily come from BOA. -
Dual Point Mounting
"Dual Point Mounting" (German: two-point mounting) is a mounting technique in inline skates where the boot is attached to the rail with two screws – usually at the front and back.
The distance between the front and rear screw is usually either 165 mm or 195 mm, with 165 mm representing the most common standard. However, there are also variants with different distances, which are often used, e.g., in children's inline skates with smaller shoe sizes.
This means: Every frame with a 165-mm hole spacing fits on every skate with the corresponding 165-mm dual-point mounting. Characteristic of this mounting system is that the heel area is slightly raised – in contrast to UFS mounting (Universal Frame System), which is flat and has no elevation in the heel area. Dual Point and UFS Mounting are therefore not compatible with each other. UFS Mounting is usually used in aggressive inline skates. -
Insole
The insole (also called the inner sole) is a removable part inside the inline skate that lies directly under the foot. It is an important element for comfort, cushioning, and fit.
The insole provides additional comfort and improves the fit of the skate. If necessary, it can be replaced with an orthopedic or sports variant. -
EVA
EVA stands for ethylene-vinyl acetate – a lightweight, elastic, and shock-absorbing plastic that is frequently used in inline skates for padding, insoles, and cushioning elements. -
Flat (Setup)
"Flat" (or flat setup) refers to a wheel setup in inline skates where all wheels are the same size and mounted on one level (i.e., "flat") – without height differences -
Flex (Shaft Flexibility)
Flex – specifically shaft flex – refers to the flexibility of the upper shaft area (also called the "cuff") in inline skates, i.e., how much it can be bent forward or to the side while riding.
The shaft of a skate can be stiffer or softer depending on the design. The flex influences how mobile, responsive, and comfortable the skate is. -
Footies
Footies (also "skate footies" or "ankle socks") are thin, padded neoprene or fabric covers that are pulled over the foot and ankle – in addition to normal socks. They serve primarily for comfort, support, and protection while skating. -
Frame
The frame (German: rail) is the load-bearing element under the inline skate, to which the wheels are attached. It connects the boot (boot) with the wheels and has a major influence on riding behavior, stability, maneuverability, and speed. -
Arch Support (Arch Support)
Arch support (English: Arch Support) refers to the targeted support of the arch of the foot – i.e., the slightly arched area on the inside of the foot between the balls of the feet and the heel – in inline skates, as well as in sports shoes.
Many insoles have an elevation exactly at this point, but it does not fit every foot type. If a skate presses uncomfortably in the arch area or if you get cramps or numb feet while riding, it makes sense to remove the insole and check how the skate feels without it. If necessary, it is worth trying another, better-fitting sole. -
Riveted
Riveted refers to a solid connection of two components with rivets – small metal pins that are permanently pressed. In inline skates, riveted connections are frequently found between the rail and the boot, especially in beginner models or fixed-mounted constructions.
Unlike bolted connections, riveted parts cannot easily be disassembled or replaced. This makes the construction stable, but less flexible in adjustment or tuning. -
Hard-Shell Skate
A hard-shell skate (also called a hardboot) is an inline skate where the outer boot consists of robust, hard plastic. In contrast to softboot skates (with textile or soft upper material), the hardboot offers more stability, protection, and support – especially in demanding use.
A skate with a hard shell therefore often makes sense for beginners in fitness and recreational skating, as it offers significantly better stability than a softboot. -
Hex (Allen)
Hex (short for hexagon) or Allen refers to a hexagonal tool that is used in inline skates for screws with an internal hexagonal head.
In inline skates, a 4mm hex is usually used. -
Heat Molding (Heat Molding)
Heat molding (English: Heat Molding) is a process in which certain parts of the inline skate – usually the liner (inner boot) or the hard shell (usually made of carbon fiber) – can be adapted to the individual foot shape through targeted heating.
This ensures a better fit, higher comfort, and optimal control. -
ILQ
ILQ stands for In-Line Qualified and is a ball bearing specification that was developed specifically for use in inline skating. It is an alternative to the ABEC scale, which is used in many skates – especially in brands like Twincam or Powerslide.
ILQ was developed specifically for skaters and evaluates not only manufacturing precision but also durability, running behavior, and protection against dirt. -
Liner / Liner
The liner (also called a liner) is the removable, padded interior part of an inline skate that comes directly into contact with the foot. It ensures comfort, support, and cushioning and is crucial for the riding feel and fit of the skate.
A liner is replaceable and not permanently built into or connected to the skate.
A liner is usually used in a hard-shell skate, i.e., a hardboot. Softboot skates usually do not have a separate liner, but a one-piece skeleton with padding, where the interior cannot be replaced. -
Velcro Closure
A Velcro closure (English: Velcro strap) is a mechanical closure system that is often used in inline skates as an additional fixation at the instep (instep) or in the ankle area. It consists of two parts: a hook band (rough) and a loop band (soft), which stick firmly together when pressed together. -
Ball Bearing
Ball bearings are a central component in inline skates – they sit in the wheels and ensure that they turn smoothly and efficiently. Every ball bearing consists of an outer and inner ring, between which several small steel or ceramic balls rotate.
Two ball bearings are used per skate wheel. You therefore always need twice as many ball bearings as wheels. -
Bearing Spacer (Bearing Spacer)
A bearing spacer (English: Bearing Spacer) is a small but very important component that is located between the two ball bearings in a wheel. It ensures that the bearings are correctly aligned and work efficiently – especially under lateral pressure while skating.
The spacers ensure that the wheel does not have too much, nor jams, and can therefore always turn freely. -
Ball Bearing Outer Diameter
The ball bearing outer diameter is the dimension of the outer ring of the bearing – i.e., the part that is inserted into the wheel. This dimension must exactly match the bore (bearing seat) of the wheel so that the ball bearing sits securely and functions optimally.
22 mm is the absolute standard in inline skates → Suitable for all common wheels with a 608 bearing seat (Warning, there are also exceptions). -
Ball Bearing Inner Diameter
The ball bearing inner diameter is the dimension of the inner ring of a ball bearing – i.e., the part that sits directly on the axle. This dimension must fit the axle thickness of the skate so that the bearing can be correctly mounted and run smoothly.
8 mm is the common standard for most inline skates → Fits the usual 8-mm axles.
6 mm axles are used in some children's skates, some K2 skates, or special lightweight frames → Combined with suitable spacers and adapters (6mm spacer) -
Ball Bearing Cage (Labyrinth)
The ball bearing cage (English: Ball Cage or Retainer), also called a labyrinth, is an internal component in the ball bearing that keeps the balls at an even distance from each other and guides them in position during rotation.
The cage prevents contact between the individual balls and thus leads to less friction. In some ball bearings, you can remove the cage to clean the individual balls and re-grease them. -
Ball Bearing Material
The ball bearing material describes what materials the individual components of an inline skate ball bearing are made of. The choice of material has a major influence on the performance, durability, corrosion resistance, weight, and maintenance of the bearings.
The most frequently used materials are:
Steel (e.g., carbon steel)
Standard material for all-round bearings.
Stainless steel (e.g., chrome steel)
Rust-free or significantly less rust-prone bearings, ideal in wet or humid climates.
Ceramic
High-end bearings: very fast, extremely smooth-running, and not rust-prone (ceramic itself does not rust).
Refinement:
Some ball bearings are additionally coated with titanium nitride. This coating ensures an even smoother surface, lower friction, and additional corrosion protection.
Important to know: Ball bearings usually consist of different materials.
For example:
Rings made of stainless steel, shields made of steel, labyrinth (seal) made of nylon, and balls made of ceramic.
Therefore, a high-quality stainless steel ball bearing can perform better in practical use than a supposed ceramic bearing, where only the balls are made of ceramic, while the rings are made of rust-prone steel.
Tip: Pay close attention when buying what materials the individual components of a ball bearing consist of!
On our website, you will find this information transparently in the product specifications on the respective product page. -
Ball Bearing Standard (Ball Bearing Standard)
The ball bearing standard (also ball bearing standard) refers to the technical dimensions and properties according to which a ball bearing is manufactured. In inline skating, type 608 is above all the decisive standard – almost all commercially available wheels and skates are designed for it (but there are also other types such as the 688 bearings (mini bearings).
Type 608 = Outer diameter: 22 mm, Inner diameter: 8 mm, Width 7 mm -
Ball Bearing Rings
Ball bearing rings are the two concentric components of a ball bearing, between which the balls roll. They form the basic framework of the ball bearing and ensure the necessary structure and guidance of the movement.
Inner ring: Lies on the axle, turns with the wheel, and transfers the movement to the balls.
Outer ring: Sits firmly in the wheel, usually remains stationary, and holds the bearing in the wheel. -
Ball Bearing Shield
The ball bearing shield (English: Shield or Sealing) is a cover on the outer or inner side of the ball bearing. It protects the internal components – especially the balls and the cage – from dirt, dust, water, and moisture.
The shield protects against dirt, extends the life of the bearing, and influences the running smoothness and maintainability.
Typical designations of different, but common ball bearing shields:
ZZ (double metal protected): 2 metal shields (outer & inner) = Long-lasting, but not waterproof.
RS or 2RS (rubber seal): 1 or 2 rubber shields = Better sealing, slightly higher resistance.
RZ or 2RZ (low-friction rubber seal): 1 or 2 rubber shields = Solid sealing, lower resistance. -
Ball Bearing Lubrication
The ball bearing lubrication is a crucial factor for the performance, lifespan, and maintenance of ball bearings in inline skates. It reduces friction between the balls and the rings, protects against wear, and can even have a corrosion-inhibiting effect.
Grease (Grease) is, for example, thicker, adheres well, is low-maintenance, protects better against water and dirt, and is usually used in urban, recreational, or all-round skating.
Oil (Oil) is, for example, smooth-running, ensures fast turning, has a high maintenance requirement, protects only slightly against water and dirt, and is usually used in speed skating or racing. -
Ball Bearing Special Treatment
The ball bearing special treatment refers to additional refinements or surface treatments that give ball bearings in inline skating special properties. The goal is to improve the longevity, running smoothness, corrosion resistance, or speed.
Ceramic coating or ceramic balls
Properties: Less friction, extremely light, corrosion-free, very long-lasting, Ideal for speed skating or very demanding skaters
Titanium nitride coating (TiN)
Properties: Gold-colored protective layer, increases hardness and lifespan, lower friction, and better corrosion resistance
Stainless steel version
Rust-free, ideal in humidity or wetness, slightly heavier than standard steel, perfect for all-weather skates
Ball bearings that have been refined, e.g., with ceramic balls and titanium nitride coating, have extremely low rolling resistance, highest precision, and maximum longevity. -
Memory Foam
Memory Foam (German: memory foam) is a special viscoelastic foam used in inline skates mainly in the boot liner or at pressure points. It adapts individually to the shape of the foot through body heat and pressure, thereby ensuring maximum comfort and a perfect fit. -
Mounting Standard
The mounting standard for inline skates describes the hole pattern and fastening method used to attach the frame (the rail) to the skate boot. It is crucial for determining whether and how different boots and frames are compatible.
The following mounting standards are most commonly used: 165 mm Standard (Dual Point Mounting), 195 mm Standard (Dual Point Mounting), Trinity 3-Point Mounting, UFS (Universal Frame System) -
Natural Rocker (Setup)
A pre-rocker or natural rocker refers to an inline skate or frame with a permanently integrated, pre-rockered wheel setup in which the wheel heights cannot be adjusted. -
Rivet Mounting
Rivet mounting (English: Rivet Mounting) refers to a non-removable connection between the boot and the frame – the components are permanently riveted together instead of bolted. -
Top Buckle
The top buckle is the fastener at the upper end of the cuff of an inline skate. It provides stability in the ankle area and is crucial for support, control, and safety while skating. -
Eyelets
Eyelets (English: Eyelets) are the small holes or metal rings in the upper area of the inline skate through which the shoelaces are threaded. They are usually located in the front part of the boot (i.e., the "vamp" or instep area) and allow for precise lacing of the skate. -
Fit
Fit describes how well an inline skate adapts to the skater's foot – i.e., how snug, comfortable, and stable the boot fits. A good fit is crucial for comfort, control, safety, and performance.
On our website, you will find information about the fit in the respective product specifications. For example, it will state whether a skate is cut very narrow, narrow, medium, wide, or very wide. -
Powerknit
Powerknit is a modern upper material used in inline skates – especially in soft boots or fitness skates. It is a knitted, breathable textile fabric that gives the skate a sock-like fit while also providing good support. -
Frame
The frame (English: Frame) is the rail under the inline skate to which the wheels are attached. It connects the skate boot to the wheels and has a major impact on handling, stability, agility, power transfer, and speed. -
Frame Spacer
A frame spacer (English: Frame Spacer) is a small but crucial component located between the ball bearing and the frame (the rail) of an inline skate. It ensures that the wheel sits centered and securely in the frame and can rotate freely and smoothly. -
Frame Mounting System
The frame mounting system (English: Frame Mounting System) describes the type and position of the connection between the skate boot (boot) and the frame (rail) of an inline skate. It is crucial for the compatibility, stability, and riding characteristics of the skate.
The following mounting standards are most commonly used: 165 mm Standard (Dual Point Mounting), 195 mm Standard (Dual Point Mounting), Trinity 3-Point Mounting, UFS (Universal Frame System) -
Frame Length
The length of the rail or frame (Frame), from the first to the last wheel; measured from the center of the wheels or axles. -
Receptor
The receptor (English: Receptor) is the receiving element for a buckle strap on inline skates – e.g., for a ratchet buckle (Buckle Strap). It is usually made of plastic or metal and is located opposite the buckle on the skate.
The receptor guides and secures the end of the strap (e.g., the serrated buckle strap). -
Strap
A strap refers to the band of a buckle. It does not matter whether it is the band of a classic buckle, a ratchet buckle, or a Velcro fastener – in all cases, the term refers to the part that is threaded through the buckle and used for fastening or adjustment. -
Rockered (Setup)
A rockered setup is a wheel setup in which at least one wheel (front or back) is higher than the middle wheel(s).
This setup is the standard in freestyle slalom skating and ensures high agility and precise maneuvers. -
Wheels
Wheels are one of the most important components of inline skates – they significantly determine handling, speed, agility, comfort, and the intended use. They are usually made of polyurethane (PU) and are available in various sizes, hardness levels, and shapes.
The most important properties of wheels are: wheel size, wheel hardness, wheel profile, and wheel compound. -
Wheel Compound
The wheel compound (English: Wheel Compound) describes the chemical composition of the polyurethane (PU) from which the tread surface of an inline skate wheel is made. It has a major impact on handling, especially on:
Grip (traction), wheel wear, damping, rebound, and handling on different surfaces. -
Wheel Width
Wheel width (English: Wheel Width) refers to the lateral diameter of an inline skate wheel – i.e., how "thick" the wheel is, measured from one side edge to the other. It influences stability, agility, grip, and compatibility with the frame. -
Wheel Size
Wheel size (English: Wheel Size) refers to the diameter of the inline skate wheel, measured in millimeters (mm). It is one of the most important factors for the handling, speed, agility, and comfort of a skate.
Typical wheel sizes and their properties:
55–60 mm = Very small, extremely agile, flat; applications: Aggressive Inline Skating
72–76 mm = Agile, stable, good control; applications: Inline Freestyle Slalom Skating, Urban Inline Skating, Wizard Skating, Inline Hockey, etc.
80–84 mm = All-purpose size, good balance of speed & control; applications: Fitness Inline Skating, Urban Inline Skating, Inline Freestyle Slalom Skating, Wizard Skating, Everyday Skating, Inline Hockey, etc.
90–100 mm = Higher top speed, less agile; applications: Fitness Inline Skating, Urban Inline Skating, Inline Freestyle Slalom Skating, etc.
110–125 mm = Very fast, easy-rolling, little damping needed; applications: Speedskating, Marathon, Long-Distance, Urban Inline Skating, etc. -
Wheel Hardness (A)
The hardness of a wheel is given in A values (e.g., 85A) and significantly influences handling.
It affects, among other things, rolling resistance, speed, and the grip of the wheel:
On smooth surfaces, a softer wheel is recommended, as it offers better grip and absorbs bumps more effectively.
On rough asphalt, however, harder wheels are the better choice, as they are more durable and roll more easily over the surface.
The Shore A hardness scale is an industry standard for measuring the hardness of rubber and plastic (A = Albert Ferdinand Shore, named after the inventor).
The higher the number, the harder the material:
78A–82A = Soft, lots of grip and good damping, but more abrasion.
83A–86A = Medium-Hard, the golden mean between grip and durability.
87A–90A+ = Hard, little damping, very abrasion-resistant, and very fast. -
Wheel Core
The wheel core (English: Wheel Core) is the inner, stable part of an inline skate wheel in which the ball bearings are seated. It is usually made of hard plastic and serves as the connection between the soft PU tread material and the ball bearings or axle. The core influences rolling behavior, weight, damping, and power transfer.
A plastic core leads to a more comfortable rolling experience. A metal core, such as an aluminum core, leads to higher speed and more direct power transfer. -
Wheel Profile
The wheel profile describes the shape of the tread surface of a wheel – i.e., how rounded it is and how large the contact area is with which it touches the ground.
In freestyle slalom skating, a round profile is generally preferred. This ensures even ground contact at all angles of movement and thus supports fluid changes of direction, controlled turns, and precise edge control. -
Wheel Setup
The wheel setup (English: Wheel Setup or Wheel Configuration) describes the arrangement and position of the wheels on the frame of an inline skate – i.e., how the wheels are positioned relative to each other (same height, staggered, mixed) and what sizes they are. The wheel setup directly influences the handling, agility, stability, and control of the skate.
A larger wheel setup provides greater stability, while a shorter wheel setup provides greater agility. -
Cuff
The cuff (English: Cuff) is the upper, ankle-reaching part of an inline skate. It is part of the outer shell of the skate (usually in hard boots) or is a reinforced area in soft boots. The cuff is crucial for stability, control, and lateral support in the skate.
The cuff, for example, supports the ankle, prevents rolling, and enables controlled sideways movements. -
Cuff Screw (Cuff Screw / Hinge Screw)
The cuff screw – also called a cuff screw or hinge screw – is the hinge screw that connects the cuff (Cuff) to the lower boot (Shell) of an inline skate. It is located on the side in the ankle area and forms the pivot point around which the cuff moves when flexing forward and backward. -
Frame
The frame in inline skates – also called a frame (English: Frame) – is the load-bearing component under the skate to which the wheels are attached. It connects the skate boot to the ground and significantly determines handling, control, and intended use. -
Lubricant
Lubricant (English: Lubricant or simply Lube) is used in inline skates mainly for the ball bearings. It reduces friction between the balls and the bearing rings, ensures smooth and easy rolling, and protects the bearings from wear, moisture, and corrosion.
Generally, two ball bearings are required for each wheel of an inline skate. Around 99% of all ball bearings used in inline skates correspond to the standard type 608 – an industry standard for bearings with an outer diameter of 22 mm, an inner diameter of 8 mm, and a width of 7 mm. -
Quick Release
A quick release (English: Quick Release or also Quick Lock) is a fastening system on inline skates that allows for quick and easy putting on and taking off of the skate – without long lacing or fiddling with classic straps. It is frequently used on fitness and children's skates, but also in modern performance models. -
Lacing
Lacing is a classic fastening system for inline skates, in which the skate is adjusted to the foot with shoelaces. It is located in the front area of the boot (over the instep) and is often used in combination with other fastening systems such as Top Buckle, 45° Strap, or BOA. -
Shock Absorber
A shock absorber (English: Shock Absorber) is a damping element in the inline skate that absorbs impacts and vibrations while skating, thereby protecting the joints.
Good shock absorbers are particularly recommended when landing from high jumps, skating on rough surfaces, or during hard impacts.
The shock absorber or damper is usually located in the heel area between the insole and the shell, between the boot liner and the shell, or between the frame and the boot. -
Protective Gear / Pads
Protective gear (also pads, English: Protective Gear) is special protective equipment worn while inline skating to prevent injuries in the event of falls or collisions. It primarily protects joints and sensitive body parts that are particularly vulnerable when falling.
By wearing protective gear, you not only feel safer, but you also are safer, allowing you to attempt more difficult moves, tricks, and techniques, thereby learning much faster and making more targeted progress. -
Threadlocker (Loctite / Liqui Moly)
A threadlocker (English: Threadlocker – e.g., known under brands such as Loctite or Liqui Moly) is a special liquid adhesive used when mounting screws in inline skates. It prevents screws from loosening on their own due to vibrations or movements during skating.
For the screws and axles of inline skates, roller skates, and other trend sports equipment, SkaMiDan recommends using a medium-strength threadlocker, which can be identified by its typical blue color (labeling: medium-strength = blue).
The threadlocker is applied drop by drop to the thread of the screw during mounting. After curing, the screw connection remains securely fixed, but can still be loosened if necessary. -
Boot Stiffness
Boot stiffness (English: Boot Stiffness) describes how firm or flexible the skate boot is – i.e., how much it deforms or gives during skating, especially in the area of the shell, cuff, and upper material. It is a key factor for support, power transfer, control, and also riding comfort.
Higher stiffness gives you more control and better power transfer, while lower stiffness gives you greater flexibility and mobility. -
Boot Support
Boot support (English: Boot Support) describes how well the inline skate boot stabilizes and guides the foot, especially the ankle. Good support is crucial for control, safety, and efficient skating, especially during demanding movements, higher speeds, or on uneven surfaces. -
Boot Type
The boot type of inline skates describes the construction and design of the skate boot. It significantly influences comfort, support, stability, weight, and intended use. Basically, there is a distinction between hard boots, soft boots, and hybrid boots – each with its own specific advantages and disadvantages.
Hard boot (Hard Shell): Maximum protection & support, durable, and better power transfer and control. A hard boot may require a longer break-in period.
Soft boot: Flexible boot made of textile, mesh, or Powerknit with integrated padding, which is usually lighter and often more comfortable. However, it offers less support and stability.
Hybrid boot: A combination of hard boot stability and soft boot comfort, offering a good compromise between support and wearing comfort. -
Shell
The shell (German: outer shell) is the rigid outer structure of the inline skate boot (in hard boots or hybrid skates), which gives the skate its shape, stability, and protective function. Together with the cuff, it forms the housing of the skate, which encloses the boot liner. -
Skate Helmet
A skate helmet is a protective helmet specially developed for inline and roller sports that protects the head in the event of falls or collisions. Unlike pure bicycle helmets, a skate helmet is designed to absorb multiple impacts well – especially in the back of the head, which is more frequently endangered while skating. -
Skeleton
The term skeleton refers to the hard basic frame or bodywork of an inline skate, which holds together and stabilizes the remaining components of the boot.
Especially on soft boot inline skates, the skeleton is usually clearly visible, as it is generally the only part of the boot that is not made of soft or flexible materials. It provides lateral support and structure, while the soft cuff and boot liner are responsible for comfort and freedom of movement. -
Soft Boot
A soft boot is an inline skate boot with a soft, flexible upper material, usually made of mesh, textile, foam, and synthetic leather. It is the comfortable alternative to the classic hard boot and is used mainly for fitness skates, leisure models, and children's skates.
The advantages of a soft boot skate are: High comfort, good ventilation, light weight, and quick putting on and taking off. -
Strap
A strap (German: strap) is a fastening element on inline skates that securely fixes the foot in the boot. Straps are often made of plastic, nylon, or Velcro material and come in various shapes and functions – depending on the skate type and intended use. -
Toe Protector
A toe protector (also toe cap or English: Toe Cap / Toe Protector) is a reinforced area at the tip of the boot of an inline skate. It serves to protect the toes and forefoot from bumps, abrasion, or impacts – especially important in the event of falls or close contact with obstacles, curbs, or other skates.
Especially on inline freestyle slalom skates, as well as on urban skates, various side and toe protectors are used. This primarily protects the skate and makes it more durable. -
Torx
Torx is a special screw head type with a star-shaped (six-pointed) profile, which is used in inline skates mainly for mounting screws – e.g., for wheels, frame mounting, or cuff screws.
The most common size required for inline skates is the T-25 Torx. -
Trinity Mounting
Trinity Mounting is an innovative 3-point mounting system for attaching frames to inline skates, developed by Powerslide. Unlike the classic 2-point system (with 165 mm or 195 mm screw spacing), a Trinity frame is attached to the skate with three screws: two screws at the front on the sides and one at the back in the center under the heel.
The Trinity mounting system is particularly popular with urban, fitness, and speed skaters who value control, comfort, and performance.
This design offers several advantages:
Lower center of gravity: The frame sits closer to the foot, as the wheels are slightly recessed into the shoe sole. This provides more stability and control.
Optimal power transfer: Pressure is distributed more evenly across the entire sole, which increases efficiency while skating.
High rigidity: The 3-point connection ensures a very rigid, torsion-resistant connection between the boot and the frame – ideal for precise steering and dynamic riding. -
Unibody
Unibody refers to a construction method for inline skates where the boot and frame are made from a single, continuous piece – forming one unit. Unlike classic skates, where the frame is mounted separately to the boot (screwed or riveted), everything is directly connected in the Unibody design.
This brings the following advantages:
A lower weight, as fewer individual parts and screws are used; Higher stability due to the seamless construction, as well as better and more direct power transfer, as there are no transitions or connection points that could give way. -
Closure system
The closure system of an inline skate determines how the skate is fixed to the foot – i.e., how securely and comfortably it fits. A good fit is crucial for control, stability, and riding comfort.
There are various types of closure systems, which are often used in combination: laces, Velcro straps, or ratchet buckles. -
Front Foot Closure
The front foot closure (English: Front Foot Closure) refers to the closure system in the forefoot area of inline skates. In combination with a Top Buckle (upper buckle closure) and a 45° closure (over the instep), this system offers optimal support and maximum control.
While an additional buckle in the forefoot area is usually not necessary in the recreational and fitness sector and can even be perceived as restrictive, it brings significant advantages in freestyle skating: It ensures a particularly firm and stable fit of the foot in the front part of the skate, which noticeably improves control and precision during complex movements and tricks.
A well-adjusted Front Foot Closure thus contributes significantly to performance – especially in disciplines that require a high degree of precision in movement.
Vocabulary and Components – Leisure and Fitness Inline Skating
Basic and technical terms for trick descriptions and skating techniques in recreational and fitness inline skating.
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Air
In skating, the term "air" simply refers to a jump in which the skater is noticeably airborne for a period of time—that is, any moment when the skates leave the ground and the skater is in the air.
The word originally comes from aggressive skating, skatepark and vert skating and is closely related to terminology from skateboarding and BMX slang. -
Edging (edge skating)
Edging (German: Kantenfahren or Kanteneinsatz) refers to the technique in inline skating where the skater deliberately shifts their body weight onto the inner or outer edge of the wheels to turn, brake, or improve control. The skates are tilted slightly to the side so that the full surface of the wheels does not make contact with the ground, but rather the edge of the wheels. -
Fakie
In this context, the term fakie describes riding backward on inline skates and is used as a prefix for tricks performed while riding backward.
Example: A trick that is normally performed forward is called fakie [trick name] when performed backward.
This designation indicates that the trick was started from a fakie position (i.e., backward). -
Grab
Grabs are tricks in inline skating in which the skater grabs one or both skates (or the frame or boot) with their hands during a jump (air)—i.e., "grabs" them.
The term originally comes from skateboarding and BMX, but is firmly established in aggressive skating and vert skating. -
Manual
Manuals are a category of tricks in inline skating that was originally adopted from skateboarding. In a manual, the skater rides on only one part of the wheels—for example, only on the rear wheels (back manual) or only on the front wheels (toe manual).
The term manual refers to balancing on one or two wheels, with neither the boot nor the frame touching the ground. The trick requires precise balance and fine control over body position. -
Mondogröße / Mondopoint (MP / cm)
Mondopoint is a size unit—more precisely, the most important unit of measurement for us skaters when it comes to the correct shoe size.
While EU, US, and UK sizes may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and model, the Mondogröße (in centimeters) always indicates the actual available interior space for the foot—that is, the exact foot length for which the skate is suitable.
👉 How to find the right Mondogröße (rule of thumb):
Measure foot length:
Barefoot and under full weight (standing). It is best to stand with your heels against a door frame and measure the distance from your heel to your longest toe.
Add a tolerance:
Depending on personal preference (and whether you want to wear thick or thin socks), we recommend adding a tolerance of 5–9 mm to the measured foot length.
Select a size:
Compare the result with the size chart of the respective manufacturer.
→ The stated Mondogröße (cm) should not be smaller than your foot length + tolerance. -
Slalom
Slalom is a precise riding technique in inline skating in which the skater moves through a series of pylons (cones) in fluid motions. During this, tight turns and varied figures are performed with a high level of control and body mastery.
This form of slalom riding is typical of the inline freestyle slalom discipline and is also evaluated as a trick category there.
However, in the area of fitness skating, there is also a riding technique that is colloquially referred to as slalom—but it must not be confused with the slalom from freestyle skating described above.
In this slalom riding technique, the skater rides in a serpentine pattern—without pylons.
This technique can be used for various purposes:
to accelerate, maintain speed, or brake in a controlled manner. -
Slide
Slides are a category of tricks in inline skating in which the skater glides across the ground with controlled sliding instead of rolling exclusively on the wheels.
During a slide, lateral pressure or an incline is deliberately created so that the wheels, or parts of the frame or boot, slide across the surface. It is crucial to maintain balance and body control to steer or stop the slide precisely.
Slides can be used in a variety of ways:
as tricks in freestyle or urban skating
as a control or braking technique (e.g., power slide)
or as a stylistic element in trick combinations and runs. -
Spin
The term spin refers to a rotation by a certain angle (number of degrees).
Examples:
A 180° spin corresponds to a half turn.
A 360° spin is a complete turn.
A 540° spin corresponds to one and a half turns—and so on.
In practice, the addition "spin" is usually omitted. Instead, only the number of degrees of rotation is often stated, usually pronounced in English:
One Eighty = 180° rotation
Three Sixty = 360° rotation
Five Forty = 540° rotation, etc. -
Straight
The term straight is rarely used explicitly in skating. It simply describes riding forward and usually serves as an additional designation for tricks performed straight ahead from a forward motion without rotation.
Example: A trick that could normally also be performed with a rotation is called straight [trick name] if it is performed in a straight line from the forward motion. -
Switch
Every skater naturally has a stronger side: a preferred leg, a favored rotation direction, a more comfortable viewing direction when looking over the shoulder, a preferred braking foot, and usually also a preferred side on which tricks (such as grinds) are performed more readily and safely.
The term switch refers to performing techniques and tricks on or with the unfamiliar side of the body—that is, with the weaker leg or in the less familiar direction.
Example 1:
If a skater usually jumps a rotation to the right, a rotation to the left is a switch rotation for them.
Example 2:
If a skater normally performs a grind to the right, it is called a switch grind if they deliberately perform this trick to the left (i.e., on the unfamiliar side). -
Switchups
The term switch-up refers to changing the foot position or trick position during the execution of a trick—for example, during a stall, slide, or grind.
A typical example:
If you perform a grind and switch to another grind during this grind, this transition is called a switch-up.
The switch-up increases the difficulty and dynamics of a trick and is particularly popular in aggressive skating, park skating, and freestyle disciplines. -
Trick Line, or Trick Run
The term trick line or trick run describes a sequence of several tricks that are linked together without interruption and performed fluidly.
A line or run can theoretically incorporate any number of elements, such as street sections, objects, ramps, obstacles, and other environmental elements.
Difference between line and run:
A line ends as soon as the skater falls or stops.
A run ends after a set time (e.g., 120 seconds)—regardless of whether the skater continues through or falls.
In practice, people usually simply say "run" or "line"; the addition "trick" is often omitted. -
Wallride
Wallrides are a category of tricks in inline skating (originally adopted from skateboarding) in which the skater deliberately rides along or slides along a wall or a vertical or steep surface.
The skater uses the momentum to briefly bring the skates or part of the boot or frame to the wall and then glides or rolls off it in a controlled manner before returning to the ground.
Depending on the technique, the wallride is performed:
on the wheels,
on the boot,
or on the frame.
Wallrides are particularly popular in aggressive skating, street skating, and park skating and can be combined creatively and versatilely with other tricks. -
Warm Up
The term warm-up refers to our skaters' warm-up phase before we begin actual training, practicing new techniques, or performing tricks.
A warm-up can look very different—from a few easy laps on inline skates to targeted stretching exercises and repeating basic techniques and basic tricks. The goal is to bring the body up to operating temperature, prepare the muscles, and reduce the risk of injury. -
Zero Spin
The term zero spin is used as an addition for tricks performed without rotation.
In practice, this term is used primarily for jumps to indicate that the trick is performed without rotation—that is, with a 0° rotation.
Example: A jump that could normally also be performed with rotation is called zero spin [trick name] if it is performed straight ahead and without rotation.