Off-Road Skating
Off-Road Skating Merges Sport with Nature
Dirt skating, also termed off-road skating, involves inline skating on terrains like dirt tracks, mountain pathways, and forest trails. Owing to the challenging and uneven surfaces, regular fitness skates are unsuitable for this form of skating as they have smaller wheels and bearings not designed for off-road conditions.
To genuinely traverse forest paths and explore nature irrespective of surface and weather conditions, robust off-road skates with large, air-inflated tyres are essential. This style of inline skating is most appropriate for more seasoned skaters who possess good balance, are accustomed to uneven terrains, and relish the outdoors.
Varied Styles in Off-Road Inline Skating
Off-road skating encompasses two main styles - cross-country and downhill. Cross-country skating blends elements of Nordic walking, roller skiing, and inline skating, requiring two poles to assist in rolling over uneven grounds. It employs dual-wheeled configurations akin to roller skiing.
Typically undertaken in more elevated regions, downhill off-road skating allows skaters to glide down grassy or dirt inclines under various weather conditions, including light snow. Nonetheless, it is advisable to avoid descending very steep hills to prevent injury. This style often involves three-wheeled skates and doesn't use poles.
For those keen on recreational or fitness skating on smoother surfaces, explore our Inline Skates and Freeskates categories.