Why Your Skates Feel Slower—And 5 Quick Fixes

Have you ever laced up your skates, hit the pavement or rink, and immediately thought: "Why do these feel so slow today?" You're not imagining things. If your skates feel like they’re dragging or not gliding as smoothly as usual, there's probably a reason—or several. Skates, whether they’re inline skates, roller skates , or aggressive inline skates , require regular attention to stay in top condition. Just like a bike or a car, when something's off, it affects your performance. Luckily, most of these problems are easy to fix with a bit of attention and the right tools. Your Bearings Are Dirty or Dry Your bearings are the heart of your skate wheels. These small components allow the wheels to spin freely. When they get clogged with dirt, dust, or moisture, they lose their smoothness and cause drag. Clean your bearings - Remove the wheels, take out the bearings, and clean them with isopropyl alcohol or a skate-specific cleaner. Lubricate - After cleaning, add a d...