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Nina's SKATE CARE TIPS

One of the most important and most expensive part of our skating outfit will be the skates themselves.  We list below a few basic checks that should be carried out on a regular basis to ensure their long life and safety.

CHASSIS – Check for security between the boot and plate

1)    Hold the boot firmly and try to move the base plate by rocking from side to side.

2)    Look for screws and bolts that are loose, missing or threads protruding on the plate itself.

3)    Check the sole of the boot is not becoming detached from the upper.

AXLE ADJUSTMENT AND CARE

1)    Check the main centre bolt is not loose by rocking the axle from side to side. The locknut at the base may have come loose on some skates.

2)    The movement of the axle should be firm according to the weight of the skater, but above all the movement on front and rear axles of each skate should be equal to each other.

3)    If dismantling the axle to clean, on re-assembly apply a small amount of light grease or Vaseline to the pivot cup and thread.

WHEELS – General Care

The wheel should spin freely, if not, check behind the wheel for hairs and fluff which can build up and work into the bearing

1)    Check the profile of the wheel for flat spots or worn edges (The front inside wheel on each skate is usually the first to wear on the outer edge)

2)    If the wheel feels lumpy or makes a grinding noise when spinning, then new bearings may be required.

3)    Wiggle each wheel for excess movement in the bearings.

4)    If removing the wheel to clean, make sure not to over tighten the lock nut as this will slow the wheel down and may damage the bearing.

TOE STOPS – General Care

1)    Replace the toe stop before it wears through to the metal, (this will damage the floor and cause you to slip). You may be able to loosen the locking nut and turn the toe stop to prolong its life.

2)    Never force the toe stop into the plate without loosening the locking bolt first.  Add some light grease or Vaseline onto the thread to stop cross threading.

3)    After the toe stop is in, you should not be able to move the toe stop by hand after the locknut is tightened.

DO NOT FORGET – DIRTY BOOTS AND LACES

will be noticed by the judges !