Best Urban Skates of 2019
IW staff chose the best urban skates of 2019 based on durability, control and comfort.
Powerslide Next 100
Durability: 10/10
The Next boot is truly a beast. The front slider wraps all the way around the toe, giving you the largest replaceable slider on the market. The bottom boasts a durable slide plate that lets you skate anywhere without worrying about cracks and scrapes.
Control: 9/10
The Trinity mount pairs so well with the short frame that the 100mm wheels have the control of some of its 80mm competitors. Low to the ground with great power transfer and response so have all the control you need with a little extra speed.
Comfort: 8/10
As far as a hard shell goes, these are pretty forgiving. The forefoot is pretty roomy without being sloppy. The adjustable canting in the cuff is great to help with supination/pronation issues. The one hold up is with the Dual-Fit Sizing. The liner itself is awesome, it makes it easier to size, it's heat moldable and comfortable... for most people. Because it allows Powerslide to squeeze two skate sizes into one shell (thanks to a handy flex toe), if you are on the outer ranges of the sizing you may find some awkwardness in the fit.
--------------------------
Flying Eagle Raven
Durability: 7/10
This skate is insane. It keeps up with the big boys with reinforced mounting pads, shock absorbers, replaceable sliders and dual buckle closures... for under $150! The boot may not be as rugged as the top names out there but at half the price of the other skates on the list, we'll let it slide.
Control: 10/10
Small wheels (76 or 80mm depending on skate size) make this skate very maneuverable. The high-quality frame and wheels not only add to the awe of the super low price tag, but they also add great response and control.
Comfort: 7/10
By no means is this a box store skate, but the low price tag is most apparent in the liner. It costs the skates a few points here but they are still a comfortable ride. The liner may not be as fancy as the high-end models but they are comfortable right out of the box and accommodate wide feet and high arches.
--------------------------
Rollerblade Twister Edge 110 3WD
Durability: 9/10
With replaceable (and customizable) components, this is a rugged skate that keeps on ticking. Built from the ground up for the street, every part of the boot has been designed to be rigid and durable.
Control: 8/10
The new Anti-Torsion box on the bottom of the skates makes the sole super stiff, enhancing the response over previous Twister models. The frames are a bit long compared to other urban skates on the market so you do lose a little response there. Stiff, high-quality components keep the skates from getting away from you.
Comfort: 9/10
Twisters are notoriously stiff out of the box but give them a little break in and they are like heaven. The redesigned "Edge" boot makes getting in and out easier than before and the new liner is perfectly padded.
--------------------------
