I haven't skated in 20 years, so I would consider myself an intermediate beginner... definitely not my first time on skates. I didn't want the stiff support of traditional boot skates and I wanted to feel a bit more free so I can try out some flow, jam, and dance skating, so I decided on these Roller Derby Glidr Elite sneaker skates to get back into it. I had also considered Sure Grip Rock and Reidell low top outdoor skates, and even VNLA Juniors. I liked the style and wheel type of these Glidr better, plus they look awesome, like chunky high top shoes, at less than half the price. I am SOOO glad I got these! They were exactly what I was hoping for. The skates were well packed and come in a nice box. Right when I put them on, they felt perfect! Very padded and just stiff enough for skates, but very comfortable like shoes. I wear a men's 10 in shoes and that's what I ordered. They fit just like all my other shoes, just perfect! Didn't have to size up or down. They felt nice right away with no break in required. I skated for almost an hour the first time putting them on, with no pain or issues. I am blown away by the quality of the build overall! The boot is super nice, and the soles are dedicated skate platforms that look like regular shoes. The wheels and bearings are SUPER nice quality. The wheels are super smooth and well made. The 83a compound actually felt perfect on the smooth floor and also on rough surfaces like at the park, so they are a true hybrid wheel. Also, the truck bushings actually flex and you can steer the trucks. The bearings are really precise and good quality control is there. They all spin freely and consistently, and they even put in the nice touch of installing full speed rings (spacers / washers) on both side of the wheels to protect the bearings and widen the stance. I wasn't sure how I was going to like the oversize diameter wheels (70mm), but they don't feel too tall, and they roll over everything!! So I love them. The plates are nice and solid, stiff, and evenly placed. Both skates roll the same way. Lastly but not least, the toe stops are super amazing!!. They are actually high quality soft rubber, not even urethane. Fully adjustable and they feel great. Removable for jam plugs. They stop on all surfaces, but are small enough to spin on to do turns, etc. I love these skates! Couldn't be happier for the price point too! Don't get these if you need hard ankle support like boots or inline skates. These might not be perfect for a beginner because they are flat heel sneakers, but I never once felt like I was going to fall backwards or break my ankle. However, my previous experience may be affecting this. I would definitely try other Roller Derby products after seeing how perfect these are :) I included photos showing the wheel spacers and bearings, and trucks etc.
