Skates can be used in many different ways. Some of the most common activities with skates are figure skating, ramp, hockey, stair riding, up and down hills, speed skating, commuting and so on. Before selecting a pair skates decide whether it is to be used for speed, hockey or multi-purpose.

The skating sports boom occurred in the 1880s and from that time onwards roller skates were mass produced to meet the demand. Richmond, Indiana based Micajah C Henley was producing more than a thousand pairs of skates every week and selling all of them. These skates were the first model to hit the markets with a provision to adjust the tension through the screws fitted at the base.

Multi-purpose skates are also known as fitness or cross-training skates and recreational skates. Correct translations of these sales terms will be "expensive skates" and "cheaper skates" respectively. Multi-purpose skates with rugged shells, smaller and harder wheels and grind plates made of either plastic or metals are ideal for aggressive or street skating. These types of skates are very popular. For inline skating, multi-purpose skates form a large share of the market. They are made of plastic and contain an inside foam liner. Some models have only laces for tying and some have only buckles and some have a combination of both laces and buckles. Find more info at www.coolskates.info

Hockey skates are made of stitched leather. They are good for use only in rinks and may not withstand the abrasion and shocks of the rough surface of the outdoors. Hockey skates can be properly fastened by using the Velcro straps and the laces.

Speed skates are provided with a wheelbase which can fit in 5 wheels. Speed skates are usually made of leather. Speed skates are sold only specialty stores.

When purchasing speed skates ensure you get a good fitting. Sit down and fasten the skates as if you are going to skate. When you stand up your toes should reach or touch the end of the skate. Bend your knees in the standing position. Straighten your legs and bend them again. Do these exercise a couple of times and check your comfort level. A small toe room should be created when you bend the knees during skating which ensures a good fit. If the toes are touching and feeling the tip of the skates, it indicates a good and proper fit. By using custom insoles you can get a perfect fit.

When the inside of the wheels appear worn or your speed is not picking up, it is time to change the wheels. Your weight, skating downhill and the terrain are some of the factors causing the wear and tear of the wheel.