Seba skates assortment currently includes three different skate models designed for aggressive skating. Each of them signed with the name of Australian skater CJ Wellsmore, is characterized by different features, which are not so obvious at the first glance. In this entry we will try to explain all major differences between particular Seba skate models and also introduce the other products of the brand from this segment.
Seba CJ Carbon (carbon shell, integrated liner)
The very first aggressive skate by Seba was introduced as early as 2013 and it quickly raised the bar as far as quality of skate manufacture is considered. Based on the hybrid design, the skate offered the mix of stiff carbon skeleton, soft top cover with lacing system and the distinctive, integrated liner.
The idea of an aggressive skate made out of carbon fibre was already a thing at that time yet compared to competition, the Seba skate felt way different. Providing far more flex and decent support thanks to higher cuffs, it attempted to bring something completely contrasting then very low and rigid construction of USD Carbon. The fusion of the shell, fabric skin and the liner into one piece provided noticeably more precise control of the whole skate. Laces can be tightened to the very top connecting the skin and the shell perfectly, granting full ankle support. On top of that, the 45 degree sturdy Velcro strap prevents from any movement inside so common heel lift problem is also solved.
Densely padded lining, especially its top part means far more support while landing fakie from higher drops. Thick padding can be also found at the toe area but due to rather wide design of the shell our feet will not be squeezed at all. Size wise Seba skates are considered rather true to size so it is advisable to choose a size corresponding to our shoe size, but remember that full integration of the liner means a slightly tighter fit. The skate will for sure require the few days to get used to, but once it's broken in, they should fit like a glove.
Seba CJ Carbon are completely flat bottom shells. In practice, this gives us the option of using a shock absorber according to our preferences, depending on its size or thickness (the set includes a standard Seba heel insert). Yet the biggest advantage of such design is for sure the possibility of mounting a skate frame directly to the boot, without the need of using the soul plate. Before all else this is important when using aluminium frames with bigger wheels, where precision and control are of the greatest importance.
The carbon variant of aggressive Seba skate model can be an unequalled choice for those preferring lighter skates. Even when paired with full flat setup of eight wheels, the total weight of our skate will still be much lower than the standard composite design. Furthermore, the high rigidity provided by carbon fibres and the aforementioned higher liner will ensure excellent energy transfer, allowing to fully use the potential hidden in wheels of bigger diameters.
Seba CJ 2 (composite shell, integrated liner)
Despite the new colour variations of the first Seba CJ pro model were released annually, the official successor of signature CJ skate hit the market in late 2019. As it turned out the carbon designs did not catch the attention of aggressive skaters for long. Stiff carbon fibres might be great for energy transfer while using bigger wheels, although while grinding it requires far more effort while locking into tricks. Probably that is why the company decided to switch to composite shell again. A bit heavier, but much more resistant to all kinds of overloads, very common in aggressive skating. Complementary the Seba CJ 2 skate was aesthetically simplified by removing small cosmetic applications. With stealth, black colour scheme Seba CJ 2 skates are also one of the best looking!
On a special request of CJ, a small plastic slider protector was added to the outside edge of the boot, additionally protecting the shell against abrasions.
The skate is providing very similar fit to its carbon equivalent. The distinctive width is still a main factor here, which together with extra space around toe area makes the second signature skate of CJ one of the most universal and easy to get into skate model out there. Highly praised integrated lining provides excellent support and optimal ankle lock. Like other skates based on a composite shell, the Seba CJ 2 models will get better fit the more they are used. The skate is recommended for all lovers of traditional skate construction and, above all, for those who will use them strictly for aggressive skating, where the use of hard carbon is not really necessary.
Seba CJ 2 Prime (composite shell, replaceable liner)
The Prime variant of CJ skate introduces a major change in aggressive models of Seba skates. This time the liner is not connected to the shell and may be removed or replaced if necessary. Removing the integrated lining from CJ models was so common among the Seba skaters that it was a matter of time until the company will start to offer the classic solution to meet the needs of the market. A very apt solution that makes the skate a bit tighter — so if we had some slack in our size in the version with an integrated insert, the Prime models may turn out to be a bit smaller.
Aggressive skaters will notice the slightly more weight and what goes with it, the more stability it gives. Locking topside tricks can be much more forgiving with composite shells as they do flex easier comparing to carbon. For many of us, the price difference will also be an important advantage as the boot only version of the Prime model is almost half the price of the carbon variant!
In conclusion, the Seba CJ 2 Prime should be the choice for those who are not willing to part with their favourite after market liners or skaters who probably do not plan to use them for freeskate setups with bigger wheels.
Seba replacements parts
Aggressive skate models from Seba are sold as Boot only option, giving the customers complete freedom of choosing the right wheels and a frame setup. Nevertheless, it is still possible to create a set on the brand's components due to vast selection of Seba street frames.
Unfortunately Seba street frames just like any other stock frame (e.g. Roces) is widely considered as less popular, often relegated to the background by major frame manufacturers such as Ground Control, Kizer or Fifty / 50. This can be very deceptive, because Seba street frames are characterized by a number of interesting features that are often overlooked by the competition.
Seba frames are available in following sizes:
- S: length 250 mm, recommended for shells in sizes from EU 36 to E U40
- M: length 260 mm, recommended for shells in sizes from EU 41 to EU 43
- L: length 270 mm, f recommended for shells in sizes from EU 44 and larger
Three different lengths allow for a better adjustment of the frame base length to the shell itself. This is of utmost importance in terms of matching the position of the frame groove to the royal groove in a skate's backslide plate. What is more Seba street frame give us the option of adjusting the wheel position (high or low). A solution that was once a standard, but over time completely ignored by many leading companies. Thanks to the so-called rockering, we can get better manoeuvrability by experimenting with different wheel sizes.
Eye-catching, concave Seba logo covering the whole side wall of a frame is not just the visual aspect. When performing grinds, only the frame outline is in contact with the obstacle, thus giving us reduced friction, resulting in a smoother slide and much longer grinds. If you are a fan of customization, you will definitely appreciate a large selection of available frame colours, expanding the idea of an individual setup.
Seba Street soul plate
The key element of the Seba aggressive skates is the soul plate with an impressive soul and negative space. Slightly contoured side walls and a shallow, but wide royal groove allow stress-free grinding experience. The width of the heel part greatly facilitates all cess slide tricks as it is helps with putting the skates in a position where the wheels are not touching the surface while sliding. Even though the Seba soul plate is mounted only with UFS bolts, its increased hardness will give us a sufficient base for a stable and safe ride.
As the Seba soul plate is completely flat, you can easily use it in skates by other brands of similar design. Seba soul plate can be very often found in USD Carbon, USD Carbon Free or even Gawds setups. It does not require any interference in the construction of the shell, making them easy to install. Additionally, just like the Seba street frames they are being offered in many colours, creating a cool alternative to the original soul plates of other brands.
Seba soul plates are available separately, but we can buy them together with the entire Seba CJ Custom Kit, which includes one pair of soul plates, a pair of cuffs and laces in the corresponding colour scheme. Bearing in mind that the Seba CJ models are currently only available in black, the vivid colours of the replacement Custom kits will definitely make your setup stand out!
