K2 VO2 S 90 Boa U - Black/Night 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 synonym of comfort.

The American brand is most often associated with relatively simple recreational skates and it comes as no surprise considering that these are widely available, liked and often picked up by skaters. However, K2 also makes more sophisticated models dedicated for more demanding users who practice one of specialised skating styles. One of such is what K2 calls X-training: and intense aerobic workout by skating, where skates are simply a tool to get in shape, develop lower muscle parts and improve endurance.

The K2 VO2 S line of skates is for exactly that. Of course, just like in case of any other K2 skate, the comfort is as important as performance. Thus, even though the boot itself is based around more strongly built outer skeleton, which provides better ankle support than one used in lower K2 models, it still feels like a pair of comfortable running shoes on your feet. A factor which plays a big role in it is cool (pun intended) feature called Vortech ventilation system, which flows the air through the base, insole and upper of the boot, keeping your feet dry and allowing excess heat and moisture to escape. Outer skin is reinforced by polyurethane in key areas. Skates come with BOA lacing system, using steel thread instead of traditional laces. It is tightened using a ring allowing for precise adjustment. Furthermore, it makes it very easy to put skates on and take them off. Velcro strap secures the heel in place and top buckle makes sure your ankle is safe from injury.

A feature which makes these skates standing out of the crowd is their VO2 frame – a rather unique, one-sided construction which makes wheels look like they are hovering under the boot. Still, they are as rigid and durable as their classic counterparts. They absolutely beg for a set of glowing wheels! Unfortunately, the stock ones do not glow, but at least have decent enough parameters. The 90 mm size is a classic of fitness skating, being a good compromise between speed and ease of control. The 83A hardness provides a good roll comfort while providing the potential to go fast. The wheels spin thanks to high end ILQ 9 Classic Plus bearings.

Overall, K2 VO2 S 90 Boa is an excellent choice if you want to get yourself a pair of comfortable skates with shoe-like fit, for skating long distances and intense workout sessions.