The ultimate guide to the best aggressive inline skates describes in detail the best ones on the market and their pros and cons.
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The Ultimate Aggressive Inline Skate Buyers Guide
I’ve been part of the aggressive inline skating world since its beginning in the early 90s, watching it grow from its wild, early days into the sport we know today. From 1995 to 1999, I ran the popular online magazine Scum, one of the first digital platforms dedicated to blading culture. Later, I worked for Daily Bread magazine and contributed to international publications like Inline in Germany and Crazy Roller in France. Through the 2000s, I was a part owner of Rat Tail Distribution, which ran several well-known brands in the blading industry, including 4×4 Urethane, Vicious Bearings, Ground Control Apparel, and Nimh Skates. Many may also know me from my video work, having made two videos for Daily Bread—Quatro and No One’s Children—as well as the United Front videos, Steal This Video for Razors, 4×4’s Leading the Blind, Sleaze for the Vicious team, and about a dozen other videos over the years. Today, I run Dream Urethane, bigwheelblading.com, and the Then and Now YouTube channel. Having skated and tested countless aggressive skates over nearly three decades, I’ve developed a deep understanding of what makes a great setup—from classic designs to the latest innovations.
This buyer’s guide is my way of helping both new and returning skaters find the right gear in a market that can feel overwhelming. It’s been amazing to see so many people rediscovering blading or picking it up for the first time in recent years. While there are plenty of modern options with far better designs and components than we had in the ’90s, classics like the Roces Majestic 12 are still around—now updated with improved liners and frames. In this guide, I’ve highlighted skates that not only perform well but also come from brands that actively support the skating community, professional riders, and events. I’ll be keeping this list updated with solid picks, including limited editions that sell out fast—so if you spot a pair you love, don’t wait too long to grab them.
Jan Welch with a Kindgrind on the Patterson Park mini ramp in Austin, Texas
Our Top Aggressive Inline Skate Picks for 2025
We have compiled a list of this year’s Best Aggressive Inline Skates sorted by brand below, but if you’re in a time crunch and want to skim through some of our top picks, here they are!
| Our Top Pick | Iqon ACT AG | $350 |
| Best Old School Aggressive Skate | Roces M12 | $189 |
| Best Aggressive Skate for Beginners | TNEC 58 | $189 – $199 |
| Best Aggressive Skate for Wide Feet | USD Sway | $199 – $299 |
| Best Uni-Body Aggressive Skate | USD Aeon | $279 – $389 |
| Best Skater Owned Aggressive Skate | Them 901 | $250.00 |
| Best Kid’s Aggressive Skate | USD Glitch | $249.00 |
Sizing Tip: To find your perfect skate size, measure your foot using the Mondopoint method, which is the most accurate. Learn how to measure your Mondo size here.
Cougar 7003
Sizes: 4-11 | Price: $269.95
The Cougar 7003 Aggressive Inline Skates are a solid choice for anyone serious about pushing their limits on rails, ledges, or big drops. Designed in collaboration with Julien Cudot these skates strike a balance between durability, control, and comfort. The lightweight PU shell can take a beating without feeling bulky, while the flat UFS setup with 60mm wheels gives you a stable, predictable ride that locks in well on grinds and handles gaps with ease.
The liners are well-padded but breathable, offering comfort for long sessions, and the built-in shock absorber saves your heels on heavy landings. One standout feature is the single-sided axle system, which makes adjusting your center of gravity quick and easy—a nice touch for skaters dialing in their setup. With a roomy toe box, sturdy cuff buckles, and secure lacing, these skates feel locked in and ready for anything you throw at them.
Echo Verve Aggressive
Sizes: 5.5-13 | Price: $249.00
The Echo Verve Aggressive Skates are a fresh entry from a long-time UK skate company behind Anarchy, bringing a new mold that feels well thought out for street and park skating alike. They’ve got a clean, low-key look but pack in some smart details that make a difference during long sessions. The liners are comfortable out of the box, with neoprene in the toe and heel for a snug fit, and the removable Velcro patches let you fine-tune pressure points—a small touch that goes a long way.
A built-in heel shock absorber softens heavy landings, and the wide soul plate with a generous negative area makes locking grinds easy and stable. The cuff has three height settings, so you can dial in the support you like, whether you prefer more freedom or added stiffness. With Echo 60mm wheels, 45mm anti-rockers, ABEC7 bearings, and fully replaceable parts, these aggressive inline skates are built to take a beating while offering the kind of performance most skaters are after—without breaking the bank.
Faction Plastiks V1
Sizes: 8-13 | Price: $249.95
Faction’s Plastiks V1 is a big milestone for the brand—their first injection-molded plastic boot after making a name for themselves with high-end carbon skates. Founded by Clark Kirkman, a legendary skater with deep roots in the sport, Faction has built a reputation for quality, rider-focused designs, and a pro team that’s as eclectic as it is talented. If you’ve ever seen sessions go down at Clark’s own ramp facility, The Compound, you know exactly what these skates were made for—hard, creative skating that pushes the limits.
The Plastiks V1 carries over the comfort and performance Faction is known for, now in a more accessible plastic boot. The adjustable cuff system lets you tweak the height for the flex and support you want, while the thick, well-padded liner with a neoprene toe and pull-lace system keeps your foot locked in place. Silicone grip spots on the liner bottom and heel stop any unwanted movement, and glued-down shock absorbers soak up big landings. Combined with glass-filled nylon soleplates, this setup feels sturdy, responsive, and ready to take a beating session after session. This is a boot-only release, and for the perfect setup, I recommend pairing it with TNEC Frames and Dream Urethane Wheels and Bearings for a smooth, fast, and durable ride.
Iqon ACT AG
Sizes: 6-12.5 | Price: $339.95
The IQON ACT AG Skates have quickly become my new favorite pair, and honestly, they’re a total gamechanger for aggressive inline and urban skating. The big standout here is the Interlink Technology, which lets you swap between UFS, 165, and Trinity mount frames on the same boot. Being able to pull off the soul plate and throw on different frames depending on the session—whether it’s park, street, or big wheel urban cruising—is hands down the most versatile setup I’ve ever skated. They’re lightweight, fit great right out of the box, and feel solid underfoot without being bulky. The MyFit Prime liners are super comfortable for long sessions, the IQON AG60 UFS frames ride smooth and balanced with the flat 60mm setup, and the Wicked ABEC9 bearings keep things fast. If you want one boot that can truly do it all, this is the best multi-mount skate I’ve seen to date—and so far, I absolutely love skating them.
Related: The Best Big Wheel UFS Frames for Enjoying the Streets
Mesmer Levi Van Rijn Pro Throne
Sizes: 7.5-12.5 | Price: $315.00
The Mesmer Levi Van Rijn Pro Model Skates hit different for me, not just because they skate great, but because of what this brand represents. I’ve always loved Levi’s skating—his style, his precision, the way he makes everything look effortless—and Mesmer feels like the perfect brand to carry that energy forward. With Marc Moreno’s creative genius behind the visuals, every release feels like a piece of art. On a personal level, this boot brings me back to my Rat Tail days—we dropped a Rat Tail Throne before we launched Nimh Skates, and seeing Mesmer take the USD Throne shell and pair it with the old Nimh soul plates feels like coming full circle.
The updated PU compound and U-shaped cuff make the boot more comfortable and responsive than the Thrones I remember, and the flat 4x60mm setup with Kizer Fluid V frames is fast, stable, and ready for anything you throw at it. The Levi Pro wheels are a nice touch too, with the dual hardness giving that perfect mix of grip and slide. For me, this skate isn’t just a high-performing setup—it’s a nod to the history and influence that shaped a big part of aggressive skating.
Razors Cult Cream V3
Sizes: 5-13 | Price: $199.95
The Razors Cult is one of the longest-running aggressive inline skates still on the market, and there’s a reason it has survived for decades—it’s a no-frills, solid-performing skate that just works. Back in the 2000s, the Cult was one of my personal favorites. It had a reliable fit, skated great out of the box, and could take a beating without falling apart. Over the years, the Cult has proven itself as a go-to option for beginners and seasoned skaters alike, offering a classic design that hasn’t needed major changes to stay relevant.
That said, it’s impossible to ignore the controversies that have surrounded Razors as a brand—the drama with Jon Elliott and the downfall of what Ground Control once was, along with some questionable dealings with riders and unflattering public comments from the owner, have left a bad taste in many skaters’ mouths, mine included. Still, if you separate the skate from the brand, the Razors Cult Cream V3 remains a dependable, customizable boot that has stood the test of time. It comes stock with Ground Control Featherlite 3 frames, 57mm wheels in an anti-rocker setup, and a comfortable lycra-lined liner. Everything is replaceable and upgradable, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting a classic, time-proven aggressive skate.
Roces Fifth Element Team BUIO
Sizes: 6-12 | Price: $269.97
If you were skating in the 90s, there’s a good chance you either owned a pair of Roces Fifth Elements or had a friend who did—they were everywhere. These aggressive inline skates were iconic during Roces’ golden era, and for a lot of us, they’re tied to some of our earliest memories of aggressive skating. After nearly two decades off the market, Roces brought them back as a UFS-compatible skate, instantly hitting skaters right in the nostalgia while giving the classic boot some much-needed modern updates.
The Roces Fifth Element Team Buio is a nod to the original, with its familiar shape and feel, but now built on a wider shell and soulplate for better performance on today’s setups. The Buio colorway has a dark, moody vibe, and while it looks mean, it’s surprisingly eco-friendly—made almost entirely from recycled materials, right down to the padding and anti-rocker wheels. Out of the box, you get a stock anti-rocker setup with 60mm 93A wheels and ABEC5 bearings, plus a roomy shell that fits wider feet better than the narrow M12. It’s a skate that keeps the classic Roces spirit alive while making it easier for a new generation—and the old school crew—to jump back in and relive those glory days.
Roces M12
Sizes: 4-15 | Price: $189.99
The Roces M12 is one of the few truly classic aggressive inline skates still around today, and for anyone who skated in the 90s, these will look instantly familiar. The M12 was everywhere back then, and I still remember checking the porch every day waiting for UPS to deliver my first pair. When they finally showed up, I was absolutely in love with them—and that feeling hasn’t changed much for those skating the M12 today.
While Roces has modernized the M12 with UFS compatibility and updated soulplates, the boot itself feels almost identical to what many of us grew up skating. It’s simple, lightweight, and functional, keeping that same classic shape and flex that made it a favorite decades ago. The current version comes stock with Roces frames, 58mm wheels, anti-rockers in the middle, and memory foam liners that add a bit more comfort than the originals. They’re affordable, easy to set up, and built to last, making them a solid option for new skaters and a perfect nostalgia hit for anyone returning to the sport after years away.
Roces M12 Lo Team Nardo
Sizes: 4-15 | Price: $265.00
The Roces M12 Lo Team Nardo Skates are a fresh take on one of the most iconic aggressive inline skates of all time, and they’ve become my personal favorite over the classic M12s. These days, I really appreciate the lower cuff—it gives me more freedom to get low on topsides, especially on ledges, compared to the higher-cut original. Roces has kept the clean, lightweight design that made the M12 a staple while modernizing a few key elements, like a slightly larger soulplate for more grinding space, UFS compatibility, and a bio-based polyurethane shell that’s both tough and a bit more eco-friendly. The removable liners use recycled padding that feels comfortable right out of the box, and the memory buckle and lacing system make it quick and easy to get your skates on and off without having to readjust straps every time.
Out of the box, the setup is simple and gets the job done, but like most M12s, it comes with hard plastic anti-rocker wheels. If you want a smoother ride, I recommend swapping those for urethane anti-rockers or going flat with 60mm wheels—I personally ride Dream Wheels flat on mine and love how they perform. The RF1 frames are stable and lightweight, paired with Roces 58mm 88A wheels and ABEC5 bearings that keep you low to the ground for great control. For anyone getting back into blading after a long break, the M12 Lo keeps that familiar 90s vibe while adding just enough modern refinement to make it one of the most versatile and well-loved aggressive skates on the market.
Premium options in alternate colorway are also available, such as the Roces M12 Lo Plus Spassov Inferno ($450) or the Roces M12 Lo Plus Cypress ($395).
Related: The Best Helmets for Inline Skating
Rollerblade Blank Team
Sizes: 6-12.5 | Price: $299.00
The Rollerblade Blank Team Skates are a modern evolution of the old Rollerblade Solo, and you can really see the experience and history behind their design. Blank is the brainchild of Tom Hyser—an early pro, former owner of Skatepile, and the mind behind legendary products like the K2 Fatty and Faces wheels—so it’s no surprise that these skates are built with a lot of thought and attention to detail. The boot has a clean, functional design with a redesigned cuff and soulplate that allow direct frame mounting, making it easy to throw on bigger UFS setups like Oysi without having to grind anything down.
Out of the box, these aggressive inline skates come with solid hardware, a reliable liner, and Rollerblade’s 60mm Hydrogen wheels. Personally, I found them a bit heavy, but most of that weight is in the stock frames. Once I swapped them out for TNEC frames, the balance felt much better and more to my liking. That said, plenty of skaters I know disagree with me and swear the Blank skates are perfect as-is, built like a tank and ready for anything right out of the box. Like most things in skating, it comes down to personal preference. If you want a tough, well-designed skate with a ton of heritage behind it, the Blank is a solid choice that pays homage to the past while bringing a lot of modern improvements to the table.
Related: Best Pads for Inline Skating
Rollerblade Blank CT Cameron Talbot Pro Model
Sizes: 6-12.5 | Price: $349.00
The Rollerblade Blank Cameron Talbott CT Pro Skates are the second pro model to drop from Blank, following Sean Keane’s, and it’s a release that’s more than well deserved. Cameron Talbott is not only an incredible skater but someone I’ve had the privilege to watch throw down in person—whether it’s at the Vermont Blade and Camp, where he absolutely destroyed every park we hit, or on the Northwest Shred Tour in Montana, which he helped organize. Seeing his name on a pro skate feels right, and this setup reflects the unique, powerful style he’s known for.
The CT Pro brings something new to the Blank line with the TB64 frames, built for flat-rocker skating with 4x64mm wheels while keeping the second and third wheels protected on grinds. The boot itself has all the things that make Blank skates solid: a supportive anatomical shell, improved cuff wrap, and easy-to-use buckles. The soulplate integrates directly with the boot for a solid, responsive feel, while the Hydrogen 64mm wheels (poured in the USA) and TwinCam ILQ9 bearings keep things fast and smooth. Inside, the CT liner matches the boot’s graphics and adds functional touches like a rubber outsole, silicone heel strips, a stretch toe, and the PSI Plus footbed for dialed-in support.
Standard Omni v2
Sizes: 6-12 | Price: $299.00
The Standard Omni V2 Skates feel like a proper step forward from the first version, which honestly had its share of fit issues. A lot of us noticed the quirks in the V1, but to their credit, the Standard crew took all that feedback—along with tons of heavy testing from their team—and really dialed in this new release. The updated shell and cuff material make the boot feel more responsive and comfortable, and the redesigned soul plates lock in well without sacrificing speed on grinds. The new heat-moldable liners with elastic lacing, a bit more volume, and a padded toe box make a huge difference in fit. Even the buckle system feels more secure and refined.
What’s especially exciting for me is seeing Andrew Broom on their team now. Andrew rides for my brand, Dream Urethane, and I’ve been friends with him for years. Honestly, I put his skating in the same league as legends like Haffey, Broskow, and Farmer back in their prime—he’s that good. Having someone of his level riding Standards says a lot about how far this skate has come. Between the improved comfort, better response, and a setup built to handle serious skating, the Omni V2 feels like the skate the V1 was meant to be.
Standard Omni v2 Yandriel Silverio Pro Model
Sizes: 6-12 | Price: $379.00
The Omni V2 Yandriel Silverio Pro Skates mark a big milestone for Standard—their first-ever pro model—and they couldn’t have chosen a better skater to rep the brand. Yandriel Silverio is an absolute powerhouse on blades. Watching him skate live is a treat, and every video part he drops is packed with creativity, power, and pure style. If you’ve seen the clips he’s filmed for Standard already, you know exactly what I mean.
Built on the updated Omni V2 platform, this skate takes all the refinements from the previous version—better flex, improved comfort, a more durable shell and cuff—and adds Yandriel’s personality to the design. The brown-and-orange colorway, inspired by Cuba’s official fruit, mamey sapote, gives it a unique, personal touch you don’t see often in aggressive inline skates. The heat-moldable V2 liners and denser shock absorber make these skates feel dialed in right out of the box, and the upgraded buckle system keeps everything locked tight during heavy sessions. Paired with tan 50/50 Balance 2 frames and Yandriel’s own Chroma 58mm wheels, this setup is built to take a beating while delivering the same kind of performance Yandriel himself puts on display. It’s a killer first pro skate for Standard and one that feels just as good to ride as it looks.
Them 901
Sizes: 5-12 | Price: $250
The Them 901 is the newest mold from Them Skates and marks their first true entry-level aggressive skate. Priced as an introductory model, it makes getting into blading more accessible without sacrificing the quality and attention to detail that Jon Julio—one of the most respected legends in the sport—has built Them Skates around. Over the past several years, Julio has done an incredible job growing the brand, supporting the community, and creating skates that skaters genuinely want to ride, and the 901 continues that tradition.
The 901 BLACK COMPLETE comes with an all-new shell and cuff made from durable PP material, paired with a redesigned anti-rocker frame that keeps things simple for beginners but solid enough for experienced riders to enjoy. It includes a stock liner, plastic buckle, and a set of THEM 57mm 90A wheels with 47mm 100A anti-rockers rolling on ABEC 5 bearings. The soul plates are classic Them—clean and grind-friendly—making this setup ready for the park or the streets straight out of the box. For skaters looking for an affordable, well-designed skate backed by one of the sport’s true icons, the 901 is a great choice.
TNEC 58 / TNEC 58 V1.5
Sizes: 6-11 | Price: $189.00 – $199.00
The New Everything Company (TNEC) started out as a skater-owned frame brand and has since made the jump into producing skates, bringing the same rider-driven mindset into their first aggressive inline skates. With heavy hitters like Michael Kraft—who also rides for Dream Urethane—and Sean Keane backing them, it’s no surprise the TNEC 58s have quickly gained popularity. Designed to be an affordable entry point into aggressive skating, the TNEC 58 keeps costs low by using a single-piece, riveted soul plate and frame combo. This design makes the skate super lightweight and simple to maintain, while still giving beginners a solid platform to learn on. The roomy toe box and soft liner with a neoprene toe make them comfortable straight out of the box, and the stock flat setup with 58mm 88A wheels and ABEC 7 bearings gives new skaters a smooth, predictable ride.
The updated TNEC 58 V1.5 in black refines the original with stronger cuffs and buckles for added support and durability, plus a reworked liner that has improved heel padding and a sturdier carry strap. While the boot isn’t UFS like most aggressive skates, many advanced skaters still enjoy them because of how light and nimble they feel underfoot. The non-UFS design allows for that one-piece frame and soul construction, giving them a unique ride that feels supportive yet responsive. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced skater looking for a budget-friendly, well-thought-out setup, the TNEC 58 series proves that rider-owned companies can still push out skates that keep the culture moving forward.
Related: The Best Aggressive UFS Frames
USD Aeon 60 Team
Sizes: 5-11.5 | Price: $279.99
The USD Aeon 60 Team Skates are hands down one of the most popular aggressive inline skates on the market right now—and for good reason. The unibody design combines the boot, soulplate, and frame into a single piece, making the skate incredibly light, responsive, and low to the ground. This setup feels rock solid when grinding and offers excellent balance and stability, which is why so many skaters swear by Aeons. Because they’re a one-piece construction, there’s almost no maintenance to worry about, making them perfect for skaters who just want to skate without constantly tweaking hardware.
That said, the unibody design has one trade-off: you can’t swap to aftermarket frames down the line. What you get is what you ride—but for many, that’s more than enough. The 2025 Aeon 60 Team model builds on past versions with a slightly taller, more supportive cuff that can be adjusted to your liking, a comfy dual-fit liner with top lacing, and thick shock absorbers to soften heavy landings. The flat 4x60mm 88A wheel setup paired with ABEC 9 bearings keeps things fast and smooth out of the box. If you’re looking for a proven, lightweight, and bombproof aggressive skate that’s ready to roll with minimal fuss, it’s hard to go wrong with the Aeon 60 Team.
USD Aeon Sam Crofts
Sizes: 5-11.5 | Price: $389.95
The USD Aeon Sam Crofts V Skates are a perfect reflection of one of the UK’s most legendary skaters. Sam Crofts has been pushing the limits of aggressive skating for years, with countless video parts and multiple pro model skates and wheels under his name. This latest Aeon release takes the proven unibody design that Aeons are famous for—boot, frame, and soulplate molded as one piece—and gives it a premium upgrade. The reinforced suede nubuck upper not only looks incredible but also feels solid and durable, while blending seamlessly with the rest of the boot. A new Kizer Memory Buckle system makes getting in and out of these skates quick and easy without having to readjust every time, and the MyFit Sam Crofts Pro Prime liners add heat-moldable comfort with excellent ankle support for long sessions.
Like all Aeons, these skates offer a super direct, low-to-the-ground ride thanks to the one-piece construction that eliminates mounting hardware. This makes them incredibly light and responsive while still feeling bombproof under your feet. The setup comes complete with UnderCover Sam Crofts Pro 60mm wheels (88A) in a flat four configuration, paired with Wicked ABEC 9 bearings for smooth, fast rolling. If you’re a fan of Sam’s skating—or just want a high-performance, pro-level Aeon with thoughtful details and a proven design—this skate is one of the best you can put on your feet.
Related: The Absolute Best Socks for Inline Skating
USD Glitch
Sizes: Y13-6 | Price: $249.00
One question I get all the time from skaters in their 30s, 40s, and 50s is, “What’s the best aggressive inline skates for kids?” My answer is almost always the same—the USD Glitch. This is the newest kids-specific aggressive skate on the market, and in my opinion, it’s far superior to earlier options like the USD Transformer or the Razors Cult Jr. The Glitch isn’t just a scaled-down adult boot; it’s a properly thought-out design made for young skaters learning tricks and rolling confidently from day one.
The Glitch features a size-adjustable shell that covers four full sizes, meaning it grows with your kid and saves you from buying new skates every season. It uses a unibody-style boot and frame, keeping them lower to the ground for better balance and control. The large central grind area is perfect for kids learning their first slides and grinds, and depending on the size, they come with either 58mm or 61mm wheels in a flat setup for smoother, faster skating than older anti-rocker-based kids skates. The closures are secure and kid-friendly, with traditional lacing, a 45-degree strap, toe strap, and cuff buckle, all working together to lock the foot in place. If you’re looking for the best kids’ aggressive skate available right now, the Glitch is hands down my top recommendation.
USD Sway XXIV
Sizes: 5.5 – 12 | Price: $259.00
I’ve been a fan of the USD Sway boots for a long time, and they’ve only gotten better with each new release. The width of the boot feels spot-on for me—snug enough for control but never cramped—and the liners are super comfortable right out of the box. The newly redesigned soulplates are a huge step up from older models, sliding smoother and faster while giving more surface area for locking in negatives. It’s clear that a lot of thought went into refining this boot over the years, and it really shows when you’re on them.
The Sway 58 XXIV skates are a perfect example of how far this model has come. They feature the updated soulplates developed with input from Chris Farmer, a stylish grey boot, and rare white Kizer Fluid IV frames set up anti-rocker. The fit is dialed in thanks to the dual-fit liners, and the stock setup with 58mm wheels and ABEC7 Wicked bearings gives you a smooth, predictable ride. These aggressive inline skates have been around for ages for a reason—they’re durable, comfortable, and built to handle everything from your first grind to full-on street sessions.
USD Sway Chess
Sizes: 5.5 – 12 | Price: $249.00
The USD Sway Chess Black skates are a great choice for anyone who wants a solid, no-fuss setup that’s built to last. I grew up skating anti-rocker, like just about everyone in the 90s, but these days I’m all about skating flat. With a flat setup, you actually get to skate—smooth, fast, and flowing—without the clunky feel anti-rocker gives you when just rolling around. These come stock with a flat 60mm setup, and it makes all the difference in speed and overall fun on the blades.
The Sway boot itself has a roomy fit, plenty of support, and those big, reliable soulplates that make locking tricks easy. Paired with Kizer Fluid V frames, durable 58mm 90A USD Team wheels, and a solid buckle system, they’re ready for long sessions in the park or on the street. The removable liners are comfy, breathable, and easy to swap out if you ever want to upgrade. For anyone who loves skating as much as grinding, these hit a sweet spot between old-school ruggedness and modern performance.
Do you just prefers skating an anti-rocker setup? Well don’t fret, there is also a white version of the USD Sway Chess that comes with Kizer Fluid IV frames with 60mm wheels on the outside and anti-rocker wheels on the inside.
USD Sway Carlos Bernal Pro V2
Sizes: 5.5 – 12 | Price: $299.95
Barcelona’s Carlos Bernal is hands down one of the best modern hammer skaters in the world right now. If you think the days of massive kink rails and roof-to-rails are over, do yourself a favor and follow Carlos on Instagram—his skating is pure insanity. The fact that his pro model is built on the USD Sway boot says a lot about how solid these aggressive inline skates are. Originally designed as an entry-level skate, the Sway has earned its spot as a team favorite for its durability and ability to hold up to serious abuse session after session.
The Carlos Bernal Pro Sway V2 features an upgraded soulplate that gives you smooth, controlled slides, even on the gnarliest ledges and rails. The soft upper section has a sneaker-like look and feel, making them super comfortable while still locked in and supportive. Underneath, you get Kizer Fluid IV frames set up anti-rocker with Carlos’ own USD 60mm 90A wheels, 47mm Kizer sliders, and Wicked ABEC 9 bearings for a fast, responsive ride. If you’re looking for a skate that can take a beating and still perform like a top-tier pro model, this one’s proven to handle even the heaviest hammer skating out there.
Logan Harlan with a topsoul in Austin, Texas
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Aggressive Inline Skates?
Aggressive inline skates are designed for tricks on the street or in a skatepark. They’re heavier than recreational skates and have lower frames with small wheels (56-62mm) and a short wheelbase. Made for jumps, airs, and sliding on ledges and rails, they don’t have heel brakes and aren’t meant for recreational or long-distance skating. However, you can switch to different big wheel frames using the UFS (Universal Frame System) for various styles like urban or wizard skating. Aggressive skates have a gap between the second and third wheels for perpendicular grinds and a hard plastic soulplate for parallel grinds, preventing wheel bite. Most skates in this guide use UFS, except the USD Aeon with its unibody design. The UFS system lets you mix and match any UFS frame with UFS-compatible boots for more setup options.
How to Decide Between a Flat or Anti-Rocker Setup?
The aggressive inline skates featured in this guide come in two different wheel configurations, flat and anti-rocker. For a beginner skater, figuring out which option is best can be confusing. I will discuss the pros and cons of the two configurations to help you make a more informed decision.
What is Anti-Rocker?
An anti-rocker setup uses larger, softer outer wheels and smaller, harder inner wheels, so only the outer wheels touch the ground. Common configurations have 58-62mm outer wheels and 46-52mm inner wheels (100-101a hardness). This setup makes grinding easier and the skates lighter but reduces mobility, speed, and control, especially on rough surfaces. Most skates come with hard plastic anti-rocker wheels, which wear unevenly and don’t spin. Urethane anti-rocker wheels with bearings, like the Eulogy 47mm 101a, are a better, longer-lasting upgrade option.
What is a Flat Setup?
A flat setup means all four wheels in a frame are the same size and touch the ground. This setup offers great mobility, increased speed, stable landings, and better control, making it ideal for beginners and fun for rolling around. It’s also beneficial for intermediate and expert skaters who want more speed and smoother landings on rough surfaces. The main drawback is the risk of wheel bite on h-block tricks like royales, as the middle wheels can catch on ledges or rails, leading to unexpected falls.
How do I Prevent Wheel Bite When Riding Flat?
If you desire the agility and smooth ride of a flat setup and want to prevent wheel bite, there is an excellent way around it. The solution is to put harder 92-95a wheels in the middle of your skate while using softer 88-90a wheels on the outside. Having the harder wheels in the middle will prevent the wheel from sticking to a ledge or rail and causing the dreaded wheel bite, which can cause you to fall unexpectedly.
How do you Measure Your Mondo Foot Size?
To choose the correct size for inline skates, it’s essential to measure your foot in centimeters using the Mondo system, which accurately reflects your foot’s exact length. This standardized measurement helps ensure consistency across different footwear types. Even slight differences in measurement can significantly affect fit. To measure, wear your skating socks and use the wall method: place your heel against a wall on a piece of paper, mark the longest point of your toe, and measure the distance.
Consult specific skate model size charts and compare your measurements, adjusting them as recommended since sizing may vary among brands. Please avoid using your regular shoe size as a guide, as it can be inaccurate for skates. Instead, refer to customer reviews for insights on whether the skates tend to run true to size, small or large.
