A little maintenance goes a long way. Skates that are cleaned and checked regularly roll faster, feel safer and last years longer. You don’t need to be a mechanic — just a skate tool, a rag and about 20 minutes now and then.
Bearings 101
Each wheel has two bearings that let it spin around the axle. Most quad and inline skates use the standard 608 bearing (8mm axle). Some quad skates use 7mm axles and need 7mm bearings, so check before you buy.
What does ABEC mean?
ABEC is an industrial scale (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) for manufacturing precision — how tightly made the bearing is. It does not directly mean “speed.” A higher ABEC number doesn’t automatically make you faster on skates, and some of the most respected skate bearings don’t use ABEC ratings at all. For most skaters, a quality, well-maintained mid-range bearing is plenty.
Shields matter
Bearings have shields that keep dirt out. Removable shields make cleaning easier. If you skate outdoors, dirt and sand are your bearings’ biggest enemy.
How to clean bearings
- Remove the wheels with your skate tool.
- Pop the bearings out of the wheels (a bearing puller or the axle of your skate makes it easier).
- Remove the shields if they come off.
- Soak or swish them in a bearing cleaner or citrus-based degreaser. Many skaters use a sealed container and shake.
- Dry them completely. Never let water sit in bearings — it causes rust.
- Add one or two drops of skate bearing lubricant. More isn’t better; too much attracts dirt.
- Replace the shields, press the bearings back in and spin them to spread the lube.
How often? Outdoor skaters: every month or two, or anytime they sound gritty. Indoor rink skaters: a few times a year.
Your quick maintenance checklist
Every session
- Spin each wheel. Grinding or wobble means a problem.
- Check that axle nuts are snug (but not so tight the wheels can’t spin freely).
- Check toe stops (quads) or brake pads (inlines) for wear and tightness.
- Air out your skates and pads.
Every few weeks
- Rotate wheels to even out wear, especially on inlines.
- Check the trucks and cushions on quads for cracks.
- Check mounting bolts that attach the plate or frame to the boot.
- Wipe down boots and plates.
As needed
- Replace toe stops and brake pads before they wear through.
- Replace wheels that are coned, chunked or flat-spotted.
- Replace laces that are frayed.
Adjusting your quad trucks
The kingpin nut on each quad truck controls how easily your skates turn. Looser trucks turn easier — great for dance and agility. Tighter trucks feel more stable — good for beginners and speed. Adjust in small quarter-turns and make both trucks match.
Rain and South Florida
Got caught in a downpour? Dry your skates as soon as you can. Pull the wheels, take out the bearings, dry them and re-lube. A single wet ride can rust bearings if they’re left to sit.
Basic tool kit
- A skate tool (multi-wrench with sockets and an Allen key)
- Bearing cleaner and skate bearing lube
- Spare toe stops or brake pad
- A rag
Take care of your skates and they’ll take care of you.
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