Protection Buying Guide
Why do I need to wear protection?
Here at skates.co.uk we understand just how important the use of protective gear is. We understand that the majority of young people would prefer to look cool than wear something none of their friends do. Think about this, do you ever see the top skaters/skating performers without protective gear? No you don't. At skates.co.uk you will find a great range of skate equipment which includes those essentials such as skate pads or skating pads, knee pads, elbow pads and skate helmets.
A recent study found thatᅠonly 7% of injured skaters had been wearing full gear, andᅠ82% of elbow injuries and 87% of wrist injuries could have been prevented by wearing the proper safety gear.
The very young (and the not so young) take pleasure in the sport of skating because it is both fun and exciting; it is easy to learn and offers a great workout for major limbs, and other body parts.
What protective gear do I need?
The most important thing to consider when choosing protective gear is that it fits well, a nice fitting (not too tight and not too lose) will help you relax as you are less worried about injury. This will in turn enable you to perform at a higher level and perhaps try things you wouldn't normally within any protective gear. Why are they so important?
Helmets
- Helmets need to be worn by all skaters, at all ability levels, at all times to prevent head injuries.
- The helmet must fit securely and be buckled or fastened.
- Do not buy a helmet that moves on the head when the head moves.
- The front of the helmet should come down to just a finger's width above the eyebrows.
- Bike-style helmets, made from expanded polystyrene, offer the most protection on impact, but must be replaced after every impact.
Knee Pads
- All skaters, and especially beginners, should wear knee pads to prevent knee injuries and scrapes.
- Pads need to be fastened securely around the leg.
- Pads are usually sized small, medium and large according to body size.
Elbow Pads
- Elbow pads are also highly recommended for beginners as well as all aggressive skaters.
- Elbow pads are sized small, medium and large according to body size
Wrist and Hand Guards
- Hand protection is recommended to be worn at all times.
- They are sized small, medium and large according to body size.
How do I know which one to choose and which size?
When choosing a size for your protective gear, may it be elbow/knee pads, wrist guard or gloves or even helmets it is imperative that they fit correctly. When they're too small (too much of a tight fitting) they will restrict easy movement and become uncomfortable very quickly. At the same time if they're even slightly too big they will be unable to provide the right protection against knocks and falls.
Skate helmets in particular should never cover your line of vision, not wobble when you are skating and should have adjustable straps that buckle under your chin. When fastened, you should be able to insert two fingers between the strap and the chin. Skate helmets should offer comfortable inner padding but must not be so heavy that they can affect your balance.
Pads are just the same, they're usually pulled over knees and elbows but can also be strapped on with the aid of adjustable Velcro straps. Whichever form of skating pads or skate equipment appeals to you, it is advisable that you make sure your skate pads are thick and that they fit snugly, without cutting off your circulation. Skating pads need to be comfortable otherwise you won't want to wear them.
Most protective skating gear is adjustable; just make sure that they're always altered to the correct sizing before use. One more thing to remember, whilst wanting to look good with your protective gear, safety is always the highest priority.