Are rollerblades equipped with only one brake?
In case you’ve been wondering how many brakes rollerblades have, you’ve come to the right place. In order to address this issue, I have put together this guide.
It is therefore very important that you read on until the end of this article.
No matter if you skate in a competitive setting or just for recreation, rollerblading is fun and exciting. What’s more?
There are many benefits to this activity, both health-related and social! Although rollerblading can be enjoyable, it also poses a risk if you don’t use caution.
In this situation, the use of a braking system becomes important. The design of rollerblades and other inline skates is different. So, are there only one brakes on rollerblades?
A rollerblade does not have only one brake. In contrast, skaters have three types of brakes depending on the level of skating one is at. Rollerblade brakes typically come in three types: traditional, ABT, and no brakes.
Many people worry that there is only one brake on them. You might wonder how they work.
Does this sound true to you? In order to understand the facts, let’s examine them.
What type of brakes are available for rollerblade skates
ABT advanced brakes, traditional brakes, and no brake brakes are the three primary types of rollerblade skate brakes. Let’s take a closer look at each of them below!
1. Traditional Brakes
Most brakes used today are traditional brakes. It consists of a plastic holder attached to an adhesive rubber pad.
One of the blade frames and rear wheels is then firmly attached to this.
It can be done on either the right or left foot. However, most rollerblades have rubber brakes on the right foot.
There’s a good chance that it’s because most people are right-handed.
One of the best things about them is that they can be switched.
There’s a good chance you’re left-foot dominant and wondering what’s next.
There is no need to worry about it since you can switch the brakes to the left boot in less than five minutes.
When it comes to traditional brake systems, how does it work? I’m sure you’re wondering.
- The braking foot should be brought forward, and your toes should be raised while angling it.
- As a result, your heels are put under pressure, which exerts pressure on your heels brakes.
- Friction causes the skates to slow down when the heel brake contacts the ground.
- If you want to stop quickly, apply more pressure to your heels.
In addition, traditional brakes are best suited to beginner and intermediate rollerbladers.
The heel-brake technique is simple to learn and apply, and it doesn’t require much time.
2. ABT Advanced Brakes
Among skate brands, Rollerblades and Bladerunner use ABT advanced brakes. ABT brakes were introduced by Rollerblade skates in the 1990s.
To help skaters gain confidence when rollerblading, entry-level rollerblades have braking systems.
Is there a way to explain how the ABT braking system works? Despite its complicated features, it works nearly identically to traditional brakes.
The only difference is that on the braking foot, your toes won’t need to be raised.
Furthermore, ABT uses a rubber pad attached to the frame behind the skate boot to help with braking.
- Put pressure on your cuffs after sliding your braking foot forward. It is important that all wheels remain on the ground.
- Consequently, the rubber braking pad is pushed to the ground by the pressure-sensitive braking arm.
- To stop instantly, apply more pressure.
ABT braking rollerblades are becoming increasingly rare because brands no longer manufacture them.
Due to declining interest in ABT brakes, Rollerblade stopped manufacturing them over the years.
3. No Brakes
Having no brakes means having none. Generally, experienced skaters use rollerblades with no brakes.
Because many of them have learned other ways to stop, which do not require in-built brakes.
As a beginner, it’s a good idea to stay away from these rollerblade types. Keeping you safe is your top priority!
In addition, speed skaters and aggressive skaters are commonly seen on rollerblades without brakes.
Due to the performance-oriented nature of these inline skating disciplines, the rubber heel brakes on the rear wheels can be a hindrance.
The Best Way to Stop While Rollerblading Without Brakes
When rollerblading, there are more ways to stop than with built-in brakes such as the traditional brakes and the ABT advanced brakes.
Beginners can learn more advanced stopping techniques along the way, but these are the best options for beginners. We will walk you through how to stop without having to use a brake below.
- Fish Braking—Best for intermediate skaters
- T-stop Braking—Best for when rollerblading downhill
- Power slide Braking—Best emergency braking for intermediate and advanced skaters
- Snow plow Braking—Best for intermediate skaters
- Soul Slide Braking—Best for advanced skaters
- Magic Slide Braking—Best for advanced skaters
- Parallel Slide Braking—Best for advanced skaters
How to take safety precautions while rollerblading
To protect your head and other parts of your body, you must wear additional protection despite the fact that brakes prevent possible fall injuries.
Here are the protective gear you must wear while rollerblading;
- Helmet
- Elbow pads
- Wrist guards
- Hip pads
- Knee pads
- Shin guards
What is the reason that advanced skaters prefer rollerblades without a brake system?
It makes rollerblades more responsive for advanced skaters when the brake system is removed from them.
When a skater does not have a brake system, he or she can apply more force to the blades, resulting in faster skating.
Besides allowing slow speeds, the brake system also prevents the skater from speeding.
Are friction brakes better than ABT brakes?
When compared to traditional friction brake pads, ABT brakes always work better for inexperienced skaters. When ABT brakes are applied, the skater’s wheels stay on the ground, keeping him or her grounded.
Nevertheless, you must adjust the ABT brakes properly to prevent lifting the toe wheel when applying brakes.
Since ABT brakes are designed to be placed closer to the ground surface, they can quickly wear over time and drag even when not in use. Using friction pads while skating downhill is more effective.
Conclusion
In conclusion, rollerblades do have one brake, but it’s important to use it properly in order to avoid accidents.
Always wear a helmet and rollerblades, and know the proper way to use your brake.
