Why is protective gear important?

Cherri Blaster May 16, 2020 Gear 0

Helmet, wrist guards and knee pads are required for all rollerskating lessons. Taking these precautions is important; protective gear will allow the student and instructor to fully focus on the skills and not be fearful of bumps and bruises if (when) they fall.

As part of your first lesson, we’ll teach you how to fall safely. But most falls are unexpected, leaving little reaction time to move into a safe position, especially if you’re a new skater.

The most common unexpected falls for new skaters include:

Falling forward, hitting your knees, elbows, hands and forehead
Falling backward, hitting your wrists, elbows, bottom and back of the head

The outcome from these falls can vary from minor bumps and bruises, to broken bones and concussions. While it’s still possible to be injured in full gear, the risk of serious injury is dramatically reduced when you wear a helmet, wrist guards, knee pads and elbow pads.

Read on for more information about protective gear and scroll down for where you may be able to find it locally and online.

Helmet:

Helmets protect you from head slams, which are common when a skater unexpectedly falls backwards or forwards. Helmets rated for multiple impact are recommended because they can take minor hits without needing to be replaced. These include hockey or skateboard helmets. Your local sports shop should be able to recommend which helmets meet that criteria. You can also skate in a bike helmet, if that’s what you have. However, bike helmets are not rated for multiple impact and will need to be replaced if it hits the pavement.

Many skaters recommend Pro-Tec , S1 or Triple 8 helmets. Both come in a wide variety of colours and styles and are widely available locally and online.

Wrist Guards:

When you fall, you will instinctively put your hands in front or behind you to protect yourself. Unfortunately, our wrists have small, delicate bones that may break from ground impact and/or supporting your falling body. That’s where wrist guards come in! Wrist guards contain a splint on the top and bottom that help absorb some impact, which can limit injury.

Wrist guards are available at local sport shops and may come in a “pack” of protective gear. Check gear sizing carefully, because often times wrist guard sizing won’t match your knee pad and elbow pad sizing.

Knee Pads:

During your first lesson, you will learn how to safely fall on your knees and it will be your “go-to” when you feel out of control, off-balance or need to bail quickly. It’s not a fun skill to learn without padding!

Knee pads come in a variety of styles and thicknesses. Roller derby players typically pick the thickest, softest knee pads they can find. But if you’re skating for fun, that won’t be necessary because your goal will be to not fall.

Just like wrist guards, knee pads are available at local sport shops and online. Many brands will provide a sizing guide where you will measure your thigh just above the knee to determine your size. Or, you might be able to try them on in-store. Knee pads should be snug, but not snug enough to cut off your circulation. You can expect the elastic strapping/sleeves to stretch over time.

Your knee pads should have a plastic cap, which will allow a bit of slide when you fall. Sliding will help cushion impact, as opposed to a fabric or foam surface that will “stick” when you fall.

Elbow Pads:

Elbow pads are not required for lessons but are great for added safety. Your elbows can impact the ground when you fall forwards or backwards causing breaks, scrapes or burns. You can find them at local sport shops or online.

Where to buy protective gear:

Contact or visit the following suppliers to inquire about protective gear availability. *When possible support your locally owned/small retailer businesses. They will love you for it and will continue to bring in products the skaters need.

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Why is protective gear important?