K2 Trio LT 100 Boa Inline Skates

The K2 brand is known to public as a manufacturer of ski equipment, but did you know that they have started making skates 25 years ago? Without a shadow of doubt, this American brand is one of the industry’s veterans, delivering skates dedicated for users who value comfort.

The concept of softboot was introduced by K2 – they were the first to produce lightweight, breathable skates supported by reduced plastic skeleton. It is no surprise then, that back when market was dominated by similarly looking hardboots, K2 skates became a huge hit. To this day, the company stays loyal to this concept of skate construction – whether we speak about rec, fitness, aggressive or urban skates, their offerings are a synonyme of comfort.

Historically, K2 were late to triskate party, that's true. However, they managed to give them their own, unique spin  – because, as always, they are pretty different to other brands' offerings.

You’ll be forgiven if you think that Trio LT 100 models are simply versions of Trio 110 skate, but with smaller wheels. The naming is somewhat confusing – truth is that LT models have more in common with fitness models from K2 catalogue, than older brother which have roots in freeskates. Manufacturer markets these as “lifestyle” skates and recommends them for simply having fun rolling around or as means of commuting. The second idea is not as crazy as it may seem – even though these are not freeskates, their short frame and three 100 mm wheels should do the trick in urban environment, whereas low weight may come in handy when you need to swap your skates for shoes. Not to mention the fact that it is super quick to get into them or take them off if needed.

The boot is based around the same template as well known K2 rec and fitness skates. It is comfy and does excellent job at expelling moisture. It is worth to note that Trio LT do have some additional reinforcements in key areas, most prone to damage during falls. Even though this protection is not as “hardcore” as in freeskates, it is still something and will make skates last longer. Skates come with BOA lacing system which uses steel thread to tighten the boot – you can alter its force with high level of precision thanks to adjustment wheel. Strong Velcro strap to lock the heel in place and buckle on top of the cuff – classic K2 style closure – are final touch. The outer, plastic skeleton to which soft part of the boot is attached is pretty minimalistic, but good enough to provide stable base for push and decent amount of ankle support.

The frame is lightweight, two-piece and made out of stamped aluminium and connected to the boot via two strong rivets. Once again – this is not something you want to do hardcore freeskating on, but will serve you well enough on bike paths and pavements. As usual in case of K2 skates, it uses 6 mm axles which, in conjunction with dedicated spacers, ensure the best conditions for stock ILQ7 bearing to work in. The 100 mm diameter wheels of 83A hardness provide a high level of rolling comfort while maintaining a reasonable potential to achieve higher speed.

The Trio LT skates are an excellent choice if you are after lightweight, agile and decently fast skates for fitness skating or for using them as means of commuting on bike paths and the likes.