Bearings & Spacers for Speed Skates

Which Bearings Are Preferred by Speed Skaters?

Bearings are critical components for speed skaters, as their choice can significantly influence a skater's speed and performance outcomes. Consequently, to achieve their goals, speed skaters opt for top-tier bearings.

How to Determine the Best Speed Skate Bearings?

When evaluating superior speed skate bearings, consider factors like the ABEC rating and the type of lubrication used.

The ABEC rating describes the precision and quality of the bearing's construction. This rating spans from 1 to 9, where a higher number means smoother and faster wheel rotation. To enhance their performance, most speed skaters choose ABEC 7 or ABEC 9 bearings. Bearings such as those made from ceramic or Bones bearings are also seen as comparable to ABEC 7 and ABEC 9 in quality.

Oil or grease can be used to lubricate speed skate bearings. While oil-lubricated bearings spin very quickly, they tend to accumulate dirt faster, making them ideal for indoor practice. In contrast, grease-lubricated bearings spin at a slower rate but are less prone to damage from dirt when used in outdoor settings.

Need wheels to complement your new bearings? Explore our range of Speed Skate Wheels.

The Role of Spacers in Speed Skating

If you're aiming to surpass an opponent or achieve a new personal record, spacers can be a crucial yet often overlooked element in performance. Positioned between the wheel bearings, they ensure proper alignment, allowing smooth spinning and enhancing skating speeds. Despite their small size, spacers can be crucial when trying to shave off those last few seconds.

It's vital that spacers match the axle size of your skates. There are two variations: the floating spacer and the long sleeve bearing spacer. To determine which type to use, dismantle the wheel and fit the bearing onto the axle. If there's significant play, opt for a long sleeve spacer to ensure a firm setup. If the fit is already snug, then a floating spacer is preferable.