K2 Kinetic 80 Pro XT W Inline Skates

K2 focuses on making comfortable, lightweight skates for recreational skating and fitness. The brand has introduced the whole idea of a “softboot” to the market and they hit the jackpot here – nowadays, every major skate manufacturers produce their own fitness models according to this blueprint.

The K2 Alexis line is one of the brand’s pillars and has been available for years. These skates are made for women and it’s not simply a skin deep difference – K2 is one of companies that really adjusts their skates for female anatomy. As a result, these give better fit on slimmer feet and narrower ankles. Lightweight construction coupled with good quality, breathable materials and high level of comfort have made these a popular choice of skaters worldwide.

Kinetic 80 Pro XT W is the basic skate of the line, made with simple goal in mind: delivering a good entry-level gear for people learning how to skate from square zero, as well as a good value option for recreational skaters. The skates come with quick lacing system, allowing for easy and fast boot tightening. The ankle is stabilized by a 45 degree Velcro strap and plastic buckle on top of the cuff.

As every other K2 skate, Kinetic models come with integrated padding. The soft part of the boot is attached to stable, rigid base which connects to the cuff with good level of ankle support. The frame is molded as one part with the base and made from composite material, offering a decent level of rigidity and vibration dampening. It fits four 80 mm diameter wheels. The stock ones have 80A hardness and make for a very comfy ride. ABEC5 bearings do their job and give a good roll. Two-piece axles have 6 mm diameter.

As expected from fitness skates – they come with a brake, which can be taken off if needed.

If you are after great value, reliable and comfy skates to start your journey with this sport – Kinetic 80 Pro XT W are perfect choice. It is worth to point out that this is virtually the same skate as K2 Alexis 80 Pro – the only differences are aesthetics, but in all other areas, skates are a match.