Usd Sway Team IV - White Inline Skates

USD brand was always known for making great, iconic aggressive skates, however truth to be told they’ve struggled in area of entry-level models. Even if they were quite good, they’ve never had the same following as basic skaters made by competing brands – Roces M12 UFS or Razors Cult, for example. Especially after Throne Classics were phased out, there was a noticeable void in the USD’s catalogue – those who choose their skates mostly went for Aeons or one of Carbon/Carbon Free variants, the more expensive models.

USD made an attempt at creating basic, cheap, but solid and reliable skate with USD Sway. When they first came out, Sways shared the shell with budget line freeskates from Playlife – Bronx. Even though they were quite good and Montre Livingston has chosen them as a template for his pro model, once again – they weren’t very popular. After a couple of years USD has completely reworked the skate, leaving only soulplates untouched. It was a good decision: the brand finally have great looking, well performing and affordable “classic” aggressive skate.

Reworked skates received positive reviews and warm reception from the community – they are now a pretty popular choice for both beginners and advanced skaters. Pro skaters see their appeal too – one of the best skaters on the planet, Chris Farmer, has chosen this boot to be his first pro-model after Xsjado brand ended.

As mentioned before, the boot is based on an entirely new shell, with aesthetic nod towards beloved Classic Thrones – the toe box shape. Boot is laced high just like a hockey skates are, and shaped in a way to lock the heel perfectly in place. There is no need for additional Velcro strap or buckle. It is made out of relatively rigid material, providing excellent ankle support.

Sway is one of the more spacious boots out there and coupled with thick My Fit Basic Dual Fit, it can accommodate almost any foot type. Raised heel (both by shell itself and shock absorber) enforces correct skating stance with bent knees and makes tricks easier. The cuff provides excellent support while allowing for good range of forward movement, which is important for jumping. The buckle on top provides a secure closure.

One of the biggest Sway advantages are their souplates. After first version of the skate hit the market, they were highly praised, and some people went as far as calling them the best souls for raised heel skates. No wonder that modders soon started putting them on other skates. Sway soulplates have perfectly shaped backslide groove, generous grinding space, and they are the same width in front and back areas – making locking tricks easier and helping in cess slides. Furthermore, they have “speed dimples” which makes soulplates faster on grinds by reducing friction and keeping wax in them.

The Black Sways come with new Fluid V frame, next iteration of highly successful fluid line, remodelled to serve better for skating flat wheel setup. Frame groove now comes with additional middle wheels protection, minimizing the risk of wheel bite. This makes it a perfect frame for beginners and advanced skaters alike. Sway Team IV come with 57mm diameter, 89A hardness wheels, giving a smooth roll. The skates come with ABEC7 bearings by Wicked brand.

To sum it up – news USD Sways are worthwhile no matter your skating experience. They aren’t made with space-grade technology, are by no means complicated design, however they are all aggressive skates need to be; reliable, robust, and well performing on both street and skatepark. Highly recommended, classic style hardboot skates.