Rollerblade - Spitfire

Softboot is a boot type which is used most frequently in rec and fitness skates and to a lesser extent in freeskates and aggressive ones. Construction is based on composite base and cuff, to which boot made out of softer materials is attached (usually by glue and/or rivets). In high quality skates, soft part is made of resistant materials which allow for air and moisture exchange. Such boot template greatly improves the comfort of usage and reduces weight – thanks to these characteristics, softboots are widespread among recreational skates which are most often used for calm, leisure skating. Higher end softboots are equivalently reinforced and are good choice for prolonged training sessions. It is worth to highlight that, in fact, such skates provide relatively less control and reactiveness than full composite shells or carbon based skates. Because of this, softboots are not used in areas where these two points matter the most – in speed skating, freestyle slalom or hockey.

Riveted cuff – cuff is attached to the shell by rivets.

Round wheel profile – wheels have round profile, which is midway between flat and bullet one. They are relatively stable and grip well, all the while maintaining good rolling and reasonable speed during skating. They are perfect for anyone who values versatility.

Composite shell is made of molecular composite (hence the name) of two or more plastic compounds. It can be reinforced with addition of glass fibres for additional rigidity. Characteristics of such boot depend on used materials, their thickness and density, however it can be stated that such skates, made by renowned manufacturers, offer excellent support and protection for user’s joints and feet, while being able to withstand a lot of abuse. It is worth to keep in mind that materials used to make the shell are usually thermoplastic, so if the rest of the boot (glue, leather, foams and so on) can withstand higher temperatures, boots are suitable for heat moulding.