|
Quad Skates
You have finally discovered the sport of Roller Derby and have decided you are passionate enough to participate for the long term, purchasing a solid pair of skates will be your first major step. Riedell makes several levels of a boots that accommodate many skill levels. If you are new to the sport you may want to start out with the She Devil an entry level inexpensive boot, prices range from $100 and up. |
|
Helmet
A proper fitting helmet is arguably the most important piece of safety gear you will invest in. Bicycle helmets are NOT acceptable, as they do not cover enough of the skater's head. The front of the helmet must cover most of the skater's forehead, and the helmet cannot slide back and forth on the skater's head. |
|
Knee Pads
Make sure that the knee pad fits tight enough so that it will not slide off. Knee pads will compress over time and wear out; you should inspect them regularly for cracks, rips, and exposed rivets. Some good name brands are Pro-Tec, Rector, 187, TSG, and Triple Eight. You can plan on spending $35 to $85 on knee pads. |
|
Elbow Pads
Elbow pads should fit snugly just like knee pads. You should treat your elbow pads just as you would knee pads. Inspection, care and maintenance are essential for long lasting protection. |
|
Wrist Guards
Wrist guards are designed to protect your hands and wrist, they absorb impacts to the hand and give support to your wrists. Some guards have splints on the top or bottom and some have splints on both sides. Like all protective gear your wrist guards need to be sized correctly for optimum support, keep in mind that you will replacing the wrist guards often so inspect frequently. |
|
Mouth Guard
Mouth guards protect against concussions, the inside of your mouth, and teeth. There are a couple of different styles to choose from, most skaters use the boil and mold (Football) mouth guards, you may have a custom one made by a dentist or buy a non-molding type typically used by people with braces, this style comes in two options... protection on the top teeth or top and bottom. Night guards are not acceptable. |
|
Water Bottle
You will be drinking lots of water so bring a reusable water bottle. |
|
Hip Pads ("Butt Pads")
Hip pads protect your hip bones, tailbone, and help to prevent large hematomas. McDavid makes a custom pad that is longer, has a thicker tailbone lining, and wraps around to protect the hip bones better. This style was designed for the roller girl at the request of FastGirl Skates in Seattle, www.fastgirlskates.com. Hip pads that have a hard shell are not recommended because they can hurt an opposing skater. |
|
Maintenance Equipment
(Duct tape for pad/skate repairs, skate wrench.) • Roll of Duct Tape (Repair loose pads, Tape Feet, Etc.) • Dry Rag • Tools (Adjusting Trucks, Axle nuts, and toe stop. Powerdyne tool by Riedell works well) • Spare Bearings, Axle Nuts, Toe stops, Laces, Mouth Guard |
|
Outdoor Wheels
Optional. You may want wheels that can be used on an outdoor rink for skating activities that take place outdoors on concrete or asphalt (e.g. a parade). |