Glossary
Artistic Skating
Roller skating that is similar to the style of figure skating on ice. Can be done on quads or inlines, although more commonly performed on quads.
(Image from USA Roller Sports)
Bearings
Small cylinders that fit inside the wheel hub in order to allow the wheels to spin; they come in metal or ceramic options.
Durometer
Indicator of hardness. For roller skating, durometer ratings are assigned to wheels. The higher the number, the harder the wheel and the lower the number the softer the wheel.
(Image from Burnt Soul)
Edges
The side of where pressure is being put on the skate.
(Image from Shutterstock)
Footwork
The manner in which the feet are moved; the step sequence.
Groundwork / Floorwork
Movements performed on the ground, for example the move called the Hex.
(Image from Kev & Jaz)
Inline
Refers to roller skates with wheels in a row, or skating with these types of skates. Also called Rollerblades / Rollerblading which is from a brand name of inline skates.
(Image from Shutterstock)
Jam
Style of skating with roots in traditional roller disco and has elements of dancing, gymnastics, and artistic skating. Jam skaters can prefer to use skates that are low-cut and have jam plugs instead of toe stops.
(Image from VNLA)
Jam Plugs
Small plugs that replace the toe stop and allow for more movement but help to protect the floor and plate from damage.
JB
Style of skating that originates from Chicago. Named after James Brown.
(Image from JB Skate Chicago)
Plate
Part of the skate that the boots are attached to. They are generally made out of aluminum or nylon.
(Image from Bont)
Quad
Probably why you are here! Four-wheeled roller skates with two wheels in the front and two wheels in the back.
(Image from Shutterstock)
Roller Derby
Contact sport played on quad roller skates.
(Image from Susan Montgomery / Shutterstock.com)
Toe Stop
A piece on the front of the roller skate that allows braking and stopping. They are usually made out of rubber and can be adjustable or bolted on.
(Image from Shutterstock)
Trucks
Part of the skate that attaches to the plate and holds the axles. These allow your skates to turn and can be tightened or loosened for varying degrees of maneuverability.