Saturday, January 8, 2011

Roller Derby Hybrid G900 Womens Inline Skates

 Roller Derby Hybrid G900 Womens Inline Skates, Size 8Roller Derby Hybrid G900 Mens Inline Skates, Size 10

Product Description

Roller Derby's Hybrid G900 is a great skate for the entry level skater. The Deluxe Soft Boot Fit System provides a comfortable fit with support and performance. The aircraft aluminum frame, 80mm Speed Formula Wheels, and Bevo ABEC-9 bearings ensures a smooth and comfortable ride. 

Product Features

  • External aero dynamic soft boot design with proflex system, ultra heel & ankle support system, tri-closure system of laces
  • Aircraft aluminum frame
  • 80mm speed formula urethane wheels
  • Bevo abec9 bearing
A brief synopsis: I have a pair of Rollerblade brand inline skates that are about 13 years old. They are a hard shell boot and I thought it was time for replacement. I began looking and especially liked the new hybrid type of boot, a combination of hard and soft shell materials which allows for greater ventilation/airflow and comfort-ability.

I knew what I wanted so it made the search easier. I wanted a hybrid boot; light, specifically searched for aluminum frames. I also wanted an 80mm wheel with very good bearings; either rated in the 7 or 9 category.

With my requirements; wah-la... I came across the Roller Derby Hybrid G900 inline skates. Out of the box, they looked great. The boot was attractive and the support system looked solid. The frame was light, the bearings quiet and 80mm urethane wheels. Unfortunately, I did not receive any instructions as to the care of the skates. Regardless, I could not wait to hit the pavement.

Upon my first adventure, the Hybrid G900 felt a little off. One boot was perfectly fine, while the other seemed loose (specifically my heel didn't sit right) no matter how much I re-adjusted my foot and how much I tightened it into the boot cavity. I persisted and noticed a lot of resistance in my ride. I expected to obtain certain speeds but encountered a lot of drag that prevented me without enormous effort. Ok, I thought to myself; perhaps they just need to be broken in. After all, I haven't bought new inline skates in 13 years.

I also wanted to mention that on the box of the Roller Derby Hybrid G900, there was an address for Roller Derby and an email address; no phone number. I decided to contact the company to see if this resistance was by design or simply a flaw. I made two (2) attempts in emailing them but received no replies; a bit disappointing.

I went out a total of 5 times, expecting better results. The friction was so bad that it prevented me from 180° and 360° turns. It definitely is not the Bevo Abec 9 Bearings. While testing, the wheels spin freely on the skates when not being worn. My speculation is that the urethane wheel material is "too" soft and that when the skates are on, there is too much friction against the pavement which essentially causes a slow ride and to certain extents uncontrollability, especially noticed in turns. After sever attempts, neither the boot comfort nor the resistance seemed to change. Therefore, I decided to return the skates.

Perhaps, the Roller Derby Hybrid G900 make a great "beginner" skate but as I classify myself as an intermediate skater; these skates did not fit the bill. So, if you're just starting out inline skating and want to `definitely' not go to fast - these skates may be for you.

I began to my quest to find a new skate.NEW Womens DC Surf & Skate Hoodie Sweatshirt Jacket (Size:S) I decided to go back to the "Rollerblade" brand since I had a very good experience with my 13 year old pair. I encountered the Rollerblade Wing 10 skate. It has a soft and hard shell hybrid boot, an aluminum frame, lite 80mm wheels, and SG7 bearings. I bought these while the Roller Derby brand was being returned. Upon receipt of the Rollerblade Wing 10 inline skates, I immediately put them on and went out skating. Instantaneously, I noticed the extreme boot comfort and the resistance-free ride. No drag and I was able to make loose and tight turns without any issues. Excited, I went out for a 3 mile ride. The Rollerblade Wing 10 inline skates are a keeper! These skates were twice as much as the Roller Derby brand; but you get what you pay for.  



I just got these. Awesome bearings, good wheel size, the boot is comfortable enough and feels secure. It's a great quality for this price, last season is my guess.
The previous reviewer is wrong about sizing, skates should fit as tight as possibly without being uncomfortable: you toes should touch the front when your legs are straight, but not touch it when you bend your knees. I'm an 8 with a medium width and these in a size 8 with sports socks are perfect. Remember liners mold to your feet, you buy one size up and your feet will start to flop around... not very safe. You are not supposed to feel like you are wearing slippers, so get you true size. 


I got these and they are awesome and fast. Great price here with amazon and free shipping no other store could beat their price. Comfy well padded skate. Where else can you get an abec 9 bearing on a skate under $70? I do recommend ordering one size up from reg shoe size. I wear an 8 and ordered the 9 and its a perfect fit. size 8 was way too tight.

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