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Look for some cheap Reidell skates on amazon. You can usu find some R3's for around $100. The pads that came with the set you shared are probably not protective enough esp for a beginner. Cheap pads have a shell to protect from scrapes but no padding (in knee and elbow pads) for impact protection. Here's some suggestions: Search for "triple 8" or "TSG" knee, elbow or wrist pads. They sometimes come in packages but be careful, you might have a large wrist but medium knee so buying all mediums wouldn't work out. https://www.amazon.com/Riedell-Skates-Dart-Roller-Skate/dp/B00656362M/ref=pd_sim_468_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=R2F7CAQAR2KBNW6WMWX6
Well, if you aren't able to get your money back, I would recommend trying to spot-mold the toe box. If it is just a little pinchy, this might work for you.
Put your feet in the boot. Mark the spot of pinching with a pen or a marker. Just a dot for reference. Take your foot out of the boot. You can then heat it up with a heat gun and try pushing the spot out with a wrench or the back of a screwdriver. There are professional boot stretchers that use balls that you can get off of Amazon for pretty cheap too and are more precise than the wrench option. (And cheaper than new boots.)
>Roller derby is not (yet) as big as it leads itself to believe.
To piggyback off of WyndiMan as someone who works with alot of data if there is a massive "write in" spike vote it will set off some flags. Take for example when The Mets wanted the internet to vote for their "8th ining sing along song" and the internet came in and made it Never going to give you up Link . The mets then "Rather than commit to that as the new eighth-inning tune since it probably doesn't reflect the fan base's wishes, the Mets will play the top six selections once apiece during the first six games of their home stand,"
Aside from this one time when Roller Derby had a chance for its 15 minutes of fame how many people in derby care about the 4 letter network or would subscribe or buy an issue?
So from a couple people in ESPN they probably saw a massive spike for a write in and felt something was fishy about it. Especially if they all come from face book where I know lots of skaters who have 2 or more profiles.
Large arms and legs here.
For knee pads I used Deadbolts XL for awhile, but they twisted a lot and I was afraid of landing on my knee. I now just switched to the S1 knee pads in 2xl and honestly I could go down to an XL but luckily their straps are adjustable as they stretch out over time.
For elbow and wrist I use this set from amazon: https://www.amazon.com/JBM-international-Adult-Guards-Protective/dp/B00GG7AYLG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1521169840&sr=8-3&keywords=jbm%2Bpads&dpID=51mZntlwyeL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch&th=1&psc=1 The wrist guards have saved my wrists multiple times and the elbow pads work fine. The straps on the elbow pads are long enough but I added in an inch or so of fabric to the sleeve for comfort, although they were wearable before.
Also, in response to your ankle issue, a trainer hired by my league suggested standing on one leg whenever you're standing around, as well as doing calf raises (2-footed and 1-footed). I also learned to tape my own ankle after an ankle sprain. All you need is athletic tape and pre-wrap (tuf-skin and heel & lace pads are optional, even the pre-wrap is optional but you'll be glad you used it) and do a bunch of internet/youtube research.
You didn't ask about this but you did mention bras so I'm going to address the neep situation (LOL, sorry, I mean the nipple situation) - for people who have piercings:
I do not have piercings in my neeps, but I do regularly use silicone nipple covers for other reasons, and I adore them. I feel confident that they would protect nipple piercings for people who are concerned about them getting bumped or tugged on or something by accident. They cost under $10, are reusable (I've used and then washed mine in the sink with soap and water about 40 times so far and they're not degrading one bit yet), and I find them as comfortable as if they weren't there at all.
This is the brand I bought. I got them at either Kohl's, Target, or Walmart (pretty sure it was Kohl's though). This particular link is the first one I saw, and is for amazon and they cost a little more through it, but this way you can see the brand and what to look for or google.
https://www.amazon.com/Hollywood-Fashion-Secrets-Silicone-Coverups/dp/B01J4AWF6S/
Hope this helps someone now or in the future!
I know everyone says to buy the cheap bearings because they're all the same more or less, and cheap ones can just be rapidly replaced. I did that for about two years. But I eventually splurged and decided to try slightly pricier bearings - these - and I can get away with cleaning them less often and they still roll great. I think I've cleaned them once in a year? Maybe it's the placebo effect and I'm telling myself they work better because they were more expensive, but I don't know. With Bones Reds, I'd have to clean or replace them every couple of months because they just wouldn't keep their roll, but the Swiss bearings are still going strong.
As for wheels, I clean mine with warm soapy water whenever they seem to be getting particularly gunky. Trucks, hardware, etc. I take a look at almost every time I lace up and wipe off any obvious dirt or hair and check to make sure nothing's broken.
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I was curious so I looked it up. If you go here and click on the cover it will show you the inside. It has stuff for pre and post practice.
This is what I use. I have weak ankles that just enjoy rolling over. I’ve been working on strengthening them and don’t need the brace all the time, but when I have a twist they allow me to keep playing and I’ll wear them the next few times on skates. They’re also thin enough I don’t have trouble getting my skate on which I appreciate.
This might not be strong enough right now depending on where you’re at, but they should help down the line.
Nothing is better than a custom fit mouthguard. You can go to your dentist and get one, or order a kit and take your impression at home. I had a sisu and it was good, but the custom ones fit better. I got my last one from Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XWF59QD
Get toe condoms! They work very well in terms of blister prevention on your toes.
https://www.amazon.com/ZenToes-Pack-Gel-Toe-Protector/dp/B01N0C1QIA
I skate barefoot in bonts as well and have lost my big toenail twice. The reinforced toe of my boot is an absolute killer. I skate with silicone toe shields (similar to these: https://www.amazon.com/Vivesole-Toe-Cap-Sock-Pairs/dp/B07194J7J )
Sometimes I stuff lambs wool in the silicone shields as well. The kind ballet dancers use.
But ultimately I need new skates. They're too small in the toe box for me and that's why this is happening.
I had the same issue with my 495s years ago, and heat molding only went so far. I got them punched out a little by Riedell at Rollercon but that didn’t help much either. I wore a bunion pad taped to the outside of my foot, where the little toe’s big knuckle is. After a while the skate was worn in enough to not need them any more. It was like this and I loosely taped around the whole foot with athletic tape so it didn’t move.
I flew recently using just a Roller Derby Elite bag (without the backpack attached): https://www.amazon.com/Roller-Derby-Elite-Rolling-Bag/dp/B01K8CYUXM
I had a full set of safety gear, a skate tool (Powerdyne Y3), my Bont ParkStar skates and all my clothes for the trip packed in. I also had a small backpack that fit under the seat in front of me. I put my dopp kit in the backpack. The RD Elite Bag fit easily into the overhead compartment. I was traveling from Florida to Colorado. I did hide some "contraband" in my skate boots on the way back. TSA doesn't care about enforcing state laws, if I got in trouble for anything, it was because my gummies (gel) weren't in a proper zip lock baggy.
This is what I got and it's perfect. The backpack and the roller bag separate, so I can just use the backpack for regular practice days and combine the two for traveling or a weekend bout/tournament/workshop. I can fit all of my derby gear and my personnel stuff together and just need to track one bag!
I heard someone talking about this the other day, it sounds good.
There's at least a couple more similar books from recent years. This one is a riot, it's a guy in England who played, reffed and announced up to and including at a world cup and he just tells so many funny and relatable stories about derby drama and things:
https://www.amazon.com/Be-True-Your-School-Important-ebook/dp/B08R2VCK2J
This book is about turning off the analytical part of your brain and letting your body do what it knows how to do. Changed my game.
The Inner Game of Tennis: The Classic Guide to the Mental Side of Peak Performance https://www.amazon.com/dp/0679778314/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_SM70F0EZE8A66Y2SYPK3
I’ll reply with what me and most of my league skaters use- “Defunkify”. Available on Amazon. Works amazing!
Defunkify All Purpose Cleaner, Citrus - EPA Safer Choice Certified - For All Surfaces - 32 floz (2-Pack of 16 floz bottles) (Citrus) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098R7QT7X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_MB18ZCSESCX1HZKKRZ17?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I bought the Roller Derby Elite Revolution Derby Quad skates. They're made for a wider foot and super comfortable. The wheels are great too.
Revolution Derby Quad Skates https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9R4XAK/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_BGA3QS5RHT513JNF1NTQ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
There's a magical odor removing powder you can get. It builds up a little bit of goop if you use too much, but it works like magic.
Natural Foot and Shoe Odor Eliminator – Talc-Free Shoe Deodorizer and Body Powder Neutralizes Smelly Odors – Long-Lasting, Fast-Acting Foot Powder for Kids and Adults – USA-Made by Foot Sense, 3.5 Oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O2DQO4C/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_RNYZGP4825Z1Z6BW4ZX4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Maybe not ideal but….. I wear two different wrist guards. On my right (dominant) wrist I wear the big, bulky, most protective wrist guard with the front and back inserts to try to avoid a broken wrist on that side. On my left, I wear my Apple Watch in its normal placement, and just wear a palm guard, like these https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GX6N9WC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_7ZRJ416GSA2MQ6T8EVAQ
The watch just fits normally between the two straps of the palm guard.
My feeling is, if you fall precisely the wrong way, ain’t a pad in the world that’s going to prevent all possible injuries. I am FAR more likely to use my dominant arm to break a fall when it comes down to instinct, and I would never MUCH more debilitated if my right side were injure. So I’ll get some reasonable protection for my left side, but I’ll live with the slightly increased risk.
A friend gave me a Roller Derby Elite 2-part bag for my birthday last year (we have a history of giving each other nice stuff off our Amazon wish lists. I bought him an electric guitar one time completely at random, he was afraid he got drunk and ordered it!):
https://www.amazon.com/Roller-Derby-Elite-Rolling-Bag/dp/B01K8CYUXM
It's pretty nice. I keep too much crap in it. And I added a cargo net to hold my helmet.
I was just gonna suggest these, they’re a lifesaver. Look on Amazon for triple 8 bumsavers. They’re a bit awkward (and in mens sizes) but oh man, I cal fall all day and they’re like a cloud. I bruised my tailbone and lightly fractured it playing derby and that pain is no joke. I wear these to every practice with hitting drills.
-Also falling drills should be one of the very first things they teach you. It’s so important to know how to fall safely!
Triple Eight unisex-adult Bumsaver Skate https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004IUJEDW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_27BGMWE7WDP525JZTXTR?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I recommend getting a good duffel bag with mesh. Champion has one.
I knew skaters that normally didn't clean their gear at the end of practice or bout and would leave it in the trunk of the car until the next practice. The mesh will help it breathe and keep the odors from collecting.
My Amazon Basics duffel bag has served me well. And it’s hard to beat the $20 price.
Amazon Basics Large Travel Luggage Duffel Bag, Red https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GGNW5AM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_21F3PM635QEAEKYXR3GF
This brace changed my life. It had rigid but flexible support that lets me do laterals and everything else like that.
I’ve always had more flexible ankles than most people but was recently diagnosed with chronic ligament damage in my left ankle most likely caused by one too many ankle sprains. In addition to the brace I’ve been strengthening up my ankle. All my coaches and trainers know what going on so when I need to stop I just let them know, sit out for about 5 minutes (or more if I need it) and then jump back in.
Digital issue available from DC / Comixology for $1. https://www.comixology.com/The-Flash-1959-1985-211/digital-comic/12526 [Spoiler] Roller Derby is not depicted very accurately in this issue not even for 1970's derby.
Hi folks. I'm new here so apologies if this post is out of line - definitely let me know! I work with derby teams and skaters to help them perform like champions. Currently I'm doing research by connecting with derby team captains to better understand the stressors they face in those roles. If you are a derby captain (or know one) I would love to connect and learn about how you navigate the stressful parts of the role. You can schedule a time to talk with me here or learn about me and some of the folks I've worked with here. Thank you!
After doing some research with my teenage child, we discovered that pull-on type binders without straps and hooks are a better and healthier option. Something like this: https://amazon.com/dp/B084JR6T8C/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_RDNKB06K5BEPY1C41JMG?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I'm a top heavy male skater, (similar height and weight) and the thing that helped me the most was constant skating, in and outside of Derby, while always staying low, keeping my knees bent with my chest facing forward. It took some time, I got a lot better at keeping low I'm feeling comfortable. It took a lot of repetition on a regular basis to build the leg strength and core strength to stay low and to feel comfortable skating on one foot or the other.
I hope that's helpful.
There’s also the Pacific Electric Trail in Rialto https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/pacific-electric-trail
And if you want a skate rink, look up Cal Skate Grand Terrace (its also the practice space of the Inland Empire Derby Divas).
I pulled these off Amazon. They are better than I expected. Especially if you need something cheap and quick
What about COOLOMG Basketball Knee Pads Youth Kids Long Leg Sleeves 1Pair Knee Compression Sleeves Volleyball Knee Support for Women Men https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00YTGW8I8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ES2D22PCGPHZFCF0H8ZC
This doesn’t solve your specific needs, but I use something similar to this to wear the watch on my bicep. It doesn’t track quite as well as on the wrist, but it’s comfy and keeps the watch from being in a vulnerable place.
I've just released a book of funny anecdotes from a long career as a player/ref/announcer/coach at every level up to and including a world cup, if you are interested!
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Be-True-Your-School-Important-ebook/dp/B08R2VCK2J
(Link above is to UK Amazon store, if in another part of the world you can search the title out in your region's Amazon for best price!)
I have Bont quad skates. And mine have 7mm bearings. A set of ceramic bearings would be a really nice gift I think. Most skaters don’t (typically) buy the ceramic ones themselves because they are a little more expensive, but would be like a nice little bonus to have, something that would feel like a treat. I have the Oldboy ceramics and they are wonderful and smooth
Oldboy Premium Ceramic Skateboard Bearings (608RS ZrO2 at 8 x 22 x 7 mm) for Standard Skate Board Wheels - Good for Longboards, Quad Skates, Inline Stakes, Rollerblades and Scooters Too https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075QLMQW6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_RnA0Fb579J8AT?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
We have rope attached to a small 2x4, one rope measured to the inner apex line, one long enough for the outer, and depending on what we’re doing that day we either put little pieces of painters tape around those arcs every foot or so and then connect the dots with the rest of the painters tape around the apex, then connect them for the straightaways. One of our teammate’s partners made a very basic and simple version of this with pvc pipe and old skate wheels. There are a handful of useful diy tutorials on YouTube!
When we’re just loosely practicing and don’t need a super strict track, we got the No Trip Track from Wicked Skatewear and they cut SO MUCH TIME for those practices that need more general boundaries rather than strict. It looks like they don’t have them listed right now but these are similar. You can roll over them and if they scoot at all it’s not much! We still use our rope and wood doodad for apexes but still way easier. We still lay tape for the jam and pivot lines, but that’s it. We’ve saved HUNDREDS on tape and cleanup is quicker and more environmentally friendly!
Sorry that’s a lot and probably confusing but feel free to ask questions if you have any!
The full nylon axle nuts are amazing - I highly recommend checking them out. Plus, they're molded in a way that extends over your bearing shields so you don't have he worry about denting those when you shove a skate tool in there or anything.
A set of 8 Sure-Grip Zero Nutz will set you back like $7-$10, and they do an awesome job.
Amazon for $6: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00US7RZDA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_OBrnBbQ9MHSZ6
Have you tried gel toe covers? They may help with the toe gripping problem. Look on amazon for silicon toe pouches/ toe covers make for ballet dancers going on pointe. Like these. If your skates are a little too big, these will help fill up the extra space too.
Ever tried skating barefoot? I switched to barefoot and that solved a lot of my heel slipping issues.
I find that most of the derby specific brands show too much of my buttcheek for my taste (I have a LOT of booty, all shorts are bootyshorts), so I buy Adidas volleyball shorts with the 3 or 4" inseam. 2xl is almost always available, sometimes there is a 3xl in a strange color.
on Zappos
I also like the Adidas Techfit shorts. I think they only go up to xxl, but that should fit a 50" hip. Downside is weird patterns, upside is can usually find them for ~$15 on Amazon
UnderArmor shorts aren't really cut for having lots of buttcheek (i.e. not high waisted at all, I consider them to be low-rise). Plumber's crack is guaranteed.
I have a lot of Grrrl brand leggings, but I'm not a fan of the way the shorts fit. The legs roll up and strangle me in the hip crease. They also don't seem as durable, if I were to slide on the ground in them, they would be toast. At $40-50 for a pair of leggings, I don't do any real sports in them.
Yea absolutely! I got some skates on amazon just to get back on my feet and practice until I feel more comfortable with spending a bit more. Later on.
Demon Flexmeter Double Sided Wrist Guards. These have been my favorite, hands down.
Previously I went through a set of the 187s basically the same way you did; my first set lasted a little more than a year with help from a lot of tape, and I lost patience with the second set after only a few months. That's when I went nuts looking at EVERY SINGLE POSSIBLE KIND OF WRIST GUARD and fell in love with these. As a scientist, my favorite part is the D3O impact foam in the palm. MAGIC. Look into some of the video demos, seriously.
They're not heavily marketed towards derby but it seems like they now mention "roller derby" in their description. They have front and back support, plus a removable hard plastic strike plate on the palm. It might seem weird, but that helps keep the fabric on your palm from getting as "thready" because it's not rubbing directly on the surface every time you fall. (Especially helpful if you skate outdoors)
After looking for the Amazon link I realized I got mine Dec 2017 so they've lasted me 2 years already and while the Velcro is curling a bit and a little less sticky, they're still in great shape, and will probably last me another season. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K8ORA06/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_uINfEbQ9E085D
i'm two weeks in, my team practices 2x a week but i can only make one most weeks because of an evening class: i want to get better at skating outside of that since once a week is not a lot, but i am a broke grad student and will have to save for a while before i can afford good skates. would it be worthwhile to get some cheap-ass children's skates (looking at these specifically) for outdoor use while i'm working towards that mst, or would that money be put to better use elsewhere? (i mean obviously it would be better not spent on amazon but what can ya do)
My Riedell ones do. I have luigino f1's w/ the falcon pilot plus.
I've heard a lot of people using things like makeup bags! Or those cheapy kind of sports bags that cinch closed ( Like this https://www.amazon.co.uk/Paxcoo-Pieces-Drawstring-Backpack-Storage/dp/B0781GZXNL/ref=sr_1_113/258-1691951-4677237?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1548183802&sr=1-113 ) I have a similar bag to that that my padded shorts came in that I put wheels into, except it's completely mesh.
I also did buy a radar wheel bag, too though. For me it was $12(CAD) so I figured that was relatively cheap, which is about 7 pounds. I'm not sure you could find any little baggy cheaper than that but I don't know uk pricing at all.
I just bought a pair of these booty shorts. They're cheap, but they'll work for now. I was supposed to have practice tonight, but I just don't think it's a good idea. The shorts come in Wednesday, so maybe I'll go to that practice..
Have you ever tried a reaction ball? It’s great for agility and fast twitch eccentric muscles (stopping at high speeds and evading movements).
Sadly I don't think i have a local shop :( i was thinking of maybe getting this set Triple 8 Saver Series Wristsavers/Kneesavers/Elbowsavers (Black, Junior, 3 Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002WTNDVK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_qZ61zbMC36NK2 just not sure on sizing
My league does 2 skaters at a time, we're small enough that it usually takes about half a practice. Most phones have lap timers on the clock app, so everyone has a partner and the partner just has to hit the 'lap' button while their partner skates and counts their laps themselves. I usually make sure we have some bumpin' tunes. Everyone else sits on the sidelines and cheers and encourages eachother on.
You can use a lap counter, I find them to be useful and cheap.
My biggest advice is, do laps every practice. Don't worry about doing them in 5 minutes, or doing them as fast as you can. Just do 27 laps, every practice you can. It can make a big difference.
I just bought a set of these for my first outdoor skating experience. I haven't ever tried any other outdoor wheels, so I don't have a basis for comparison, but I really like them!
Sure-Grip Boardwalk Outdoor Wheels - Pink https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015OZ5J10/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_buJZAhnfdHuap
Read this - I'm not kidding. I read this while in Fresh Meat, and after I finished it (in two days), I walked in the warehouse as a different skater. Never looked back.
https://www.amazon.com/Inner-Game-Tennis-Classic-Performance-ebook/dp/B003T0G9E4
Pyramids are adjustable. Maybe start going 1-2-3-2-1 instead and work your way up. The idea is everyone on squad A does laps while everyone on squad B does the exercise. Once everyone on A is done then everyone on B does laps while everyone on A does the exercise. Exercise from the start of the laps until the last person finishes. It is a good idea to make the teams even or to put all the super athletes on one and the needs improvement people on the other.
I highly reccomend your league invest in something like this to make marking out drills and track space easier. https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01BXBUHAW We have a permanently marked track and I still use those all the time.
In addition to the box you can make a figure 8 by putting two cones about five feet apart. Gives people a very small individual spot to work on skills and they should work on making their laps as tight as possible.
Absolutely do exercises to strengthen your ankles. However, if you do need braces, you can find them at most sports stores or online.
I basically destroyed my ankle in my first year of play, and now almost always wear a brace. I've been trying to wean off and down onto tape the last few months but I feel super insecure because of how the break was before. If you have someone who knows how to tape, try that. Otherwise, perhaps try one of these braces?
I used this one when I first came back
I use this one now (less rigid)
I like both of them and they fit in my skates without feeling bulky at all. I still go back to the first one when the weather changes and my ankle gets super painful.
I use these on both ankles because my ankles are the worst. They don't seem too bulky to me. There's also the ones that are basically compression socks which are better than nothing.
Got the Harley and the Simpsons one in my collection. One that the article didn't mention was written and sometimes drawn by derby girls or fans. Tales from the World of Roller Derby
It's why I keep a Reflex Skate Tool handy. Because occasionally skaters will screw up their axle threads popping out bearings, cross-threading wheel nuts, or grinding an axle on the floor when a wheel pops off. The Reflex Tool has a built in die to clean up bad axle threads. (Won't work on 7mm or Metric threaded axles)
That's not supposed to happen. Sounds like it's been used a lot and the die has managed to get loose in the tool. But, here's how you can fix that.
Pop the die out of the tool and clean the die and the socket on the tool.
Mix up the JB Weld with a matchstick or a chopstick, and put a thin coat of it on the inside of the socket the die sits in.
Pop the die into the socket, squeeze it down, and wipe away any excess JB weld that squeezes out from between the die and socket. Make sure to clean any errant JB Weld away from the cutting teeth.
Let sit overnight to cure. That die will -never- come out of the socket again.