What Are Spacers for Inline Skates?

Inline skate wheel spacers are the small components placed between the two bearings in each wheel of your inline skates. They come in different sizes (6 mm or 8 mm), so ensure you know which spacers your wheels require before purchasing new ones. This information is usually indicated on the wheel or your old spacer.

Having quality spacers for inline skates ensures that your bearings are held securely in place and that your wheels will spin freely. The spacers take some weight off the bearings and also reduce friction. They are typically made from metal or plastic, but metal spacers, often aluminum, are more common due to their durability.

Choosing the Right Inline Skate Spacers

There are two types of spacers you can choose from: 6 mm or 8 mm. This number refers to the axle diameter, so the size you need depends on your axle size. A 6 mm spacer, also known as a long sleeve spacer, will work for a 6 mm axle. Similarly, an 8 mm spacer, also called a floating spacer, will fit an 8 mm axle. If you want to learn more about the differences between the two types of spacers, head over to our Spacers Guide.

If you’re planning on getting some spacers, you might also want to consider upgrading your Bearings to achieve an optimal skating experience.