eurtireticet f,.

FK, Jr. does
it. Kids play-
ing "ice" hock-
ey on asphalt do
it. In-line skating is
hot, and them that
likes it hot had better
skedaddle on down to
the sporting goods store
for a pair of single-blade,
neon-colored, neo-roller skates.
Popularly known as Rollerblades,
after the brand name of a major man-
ufacturer, in-line skates are a two- year-
old trend that is still on the upswing.
Most any in-line skater will tell you
they're the next best thing to wings.
They can be warm weather training
tools for downhill and cross-country
skiing. They're also a great source of
non-impact aerobic exercise. Non-im-

62 STYLE

pact, that is, until you fall. The skates'
polyurethane Kryptonic wheels can
travel faster than 20 miles per hour.
Good thing the helmets, wrist guards,
elbow and knee pads that go with them
are considered cool — we're talking the
least-resisted safety gear since wind-
shield wipers.
Sam Krause, footwear buyer for
Dunham's, notes that the trend is con-
tinuing to grow. "It's a steady growth
and an expanding market," says Mr.
Krause. He mentions that first-time
buyers usually purchase skates at a low-
er price range, while experienced
skaters constantly upgrade their equip-
ment.
At Dunham's, children's in-line
skates begin at $39, while adult skates
begin at $50. Some in-line skates can
cost up to $300. Some of the popular

brands are Rollerblade Rollerblade is
Lightning,
Ultra- the brand name
wheels, Knight-racer of a major
and California Pro. manufacturer
Beginners can consid- of in-line skates.
er the least expensive Rollerblade's
brands and then when Lightning comes
they are ready, attach in several
a finer set of wheels models.
and bearings.
Mr. Krause is surprised that the sport
is attracting older men and women. He
has heard there is quite a crowd that
goes rollerblading at the Silverdome,
which includes some seniors. There is
really no average age for in-line skating
in Michigan, but the sport does attract
people concerned about fitness.
Whether you skate for exercise or fun,
you may want to check out the August
'91 issue of Consumer Reports for a rating

PHOTO BY CRA IG TERK OWITZ

Take a skate on the wild side
with some neon-color •
Rollerbl