What Bearings Do Speed Skaters Use?

Speed skating bearings are among the most important piece of equipment for speed skaters. The choice of speed skate bearings can have a direct impact on racers’ speed and results. So, no matter the objective, speed skaters choose to use bearings of the highest quality.

What Are the Best Speed Skate Bearings?

In order to assess the best quality speed skate bearings, you have to take into consideration the ABEC rating, and lubrication.

The ABEC classification specifies the construction accuracy and precision of the bearing by the manufacturer. The ABEC rating ranges from 1 to 9, the higher the number, the smoother and faster your wheels will roll. Most speed skaters opt for a rating of ABEC 7 or ABEC 9 to maximise their performance. Other types of bearings, such as bearings made from ceramic or Bones bearings, are regarded to be as good as ABEC 7 and ABEC 9 bearings.

Speed skate bearings can be lubricated with either oil or grease. Bearings lubricated in oil spin really fast but get dirty quickly and are usually the best option for speed skaters practising indoors. Greased inline speed skate bearings spin slower than their oiled counterparts, but they don’t get damaged quickly by dirt when skating outside.

Looking for a set of wheels to pair your new bearings? Check our selection of Speed Skate Wheels.

Why Use Speed Skate Spacers?

Struggling to beat your rival or just want to set a new personal best? There are many factors that impact your performance but one that is often forgotten about is using spacers. Spacers are found between wheel bearings. They make sure that the bearings are properly aligned, leaving them free to spin and therefore allowing you to skate at high speeds. Although they are only small, they can make all the difference when you just need to make up a couple of seconds.

The most important thing to remember with spacers for speed skates is that they fit the axle on your skates. There are two types of spacers: a floating spacer and a long sleeve bearing spacer. To see which one you need, take the wheel apart and try threading the bearing onto the axle. If there is a lot of play, use a long sleeve spacer to make sure that the setup feels tight. If it is already fitting snugly, then go for a floating spacer.