All About K2 Rollerblades
If you’re an avid rollerblader, odds are you’ve heard of K2 before, and perhaps even used one of their skates. This brand has been around for years, and they have definitely left their mark on the rollerblading industry. If you’ve never heard of the brand before and are considering purchasing a pair of K2 skate, you may be wondering if they will live up to the hype. Read on to find out about K2 rollerblades.
In this guide, we will dive into K2’s backstory. We will also touch on what, exactly, makes this brand so unique, and highlight a few models in K2’s rollerblade lineup.
K2 Sports History And Mission
K2 Sports began outside of Seattle, Washington in 1962. Brothers Bill and Don Kirschner began creating skis using fiberglass. This material was significantly lighter than traditional wood, and the skis were soon picked up by Olympians and other professional athletes.
Over the next few decades, the brothers sold K2 and the company changed hands a number of times. It moved from its administrative headquarters in Vashon Island to the heart of Seattle and relocated the company’s manufacturing overseas.
At the same time, K2 also branched out into other areas such as footwear, clothing, and baseball bats. One of those areas was inline skates, setting the stage for the K2 skates we know and love today.
What Makes K2 Unique?
K2 Sports has a sustainability initiative that includes three principles. They strive to create products with a long shelf life to cut down on waste. They attempt to use non-harmful chemicals and material choices that benefit the skate’s quality while reducing their impact on the environment. And they continually revamp processes to reduce the company’s overall carbon footprint.
K2 Skate Models
1. F.I.T. 80 Alu Inline Skate
If you’re looking for a solid recreational skate for beginners, this is it. The F.I.T. 80 Alu comes with an impact-absorbing stamped aluminum frame, improved stability, and excellent foot and ankle support.
The speed lacing system makes for easy put-on and take-off, and the performance-grade wheels allow for just the right amount of speed for new skaters. K2’s stability plus cuff offers additional stability and support, leading to superior performance for a beginner skate.
2. Sodo Inline Skate
The Sodo is unique in the K2 line-up in that it includes a traditional lacing system with three buckles. Also standard on these boots are 100mm wheels built for speed and maneuverability, as well as a shock-absorbing footbed and ILQ 7 bearings. The extruded aluminum frame provides added strength and durability and the footbed is designed to absorb some of the shocks from bumps in the road.
3. Alexis 80 Boa Inline Skate
The Alexis 80 Boa can be adjusted easily with a simple twist of a knob. The die-cast aluminum frame was designed for better speed and control, while the 80mm wheels provide all the responsiveness you could need. The stability plus cuff helps keep your ankle and foot firmly in place, as well, leading to a more comfortable skating experience.
The Boa was built with fitness enthusiasts in mind, using a Tec Composite frame that absorbs the bulk of the road vibrations and a stability cuff for added ankle support. Another added benefit of K2’s stability cuff is that it helps reduce some of the skate’s weight, so you can focus more on fitness.
4. Marlee Boa Inline Skate
With the ability to be adjusted to five different sizes, the Marlee Boa Inline Skate was built to last a kid or adult for multiple seasons. One of the more budget-friendly contenders in K2’s line-up, the Marlee Boa is perfect for beginners and children who may not need all the bells and whistles of more advanced rollerblades.
These skates feature a cuff for additional ankle support in addition to laces that allow you to achieve the perfect amount of tightness and flexibility. Also included is K2’s FBI Frame, which absorbs some of the vibrations from the road or sidewalk, allowing for a smoother ride.
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5. Trio 110 Inline Skates
The Trio 110 is for advanced riders with a need for speed. The 110mm wheels are zippy yet easily controlled, perfect for cruising through city streets. The Rockerable Trio frame provides added strength and durability, helping ensure that your skates last a long time. With extra ankle support, high-quality bearings, and a UFS compatible frame, these skates have it all.
K2 recommends the Trio 110 for lifestyle skating, meaning they are great for everyday use. They may be a bit of an investment, but if you’ve been skating for a while and you are looking for a pair that will last, this is it.
Final Thoughts
K2 Sports has been around for over 45 years, creating skis and now skates. If you’re looking for a trusted brand, consider giving them a try. These are our best five K2 rollerblades models. Thank you for reading!
