Everything about buckles
Short answer:
Inline skate buckles are essential for ensuring a secure and comfortable fit, providing the necessary stability and control during skating. From early lace systems to modern buckles, this small but crucial component has revolutionized inline skating.
History of buckles in inline skating
Inline skate clips have changed a lot since the sport began. In the 1980s, most skates used laces to secure the cuff. But in 1987, Rollerblade introduced the first skate with a top clip, marking a key shift in design. The clip provided a stronger, more reliable connection, giving skaters better control and stability for tricks. Since then, buckles have become essential, replacing the weaker lace systems of the past.
Types of buckles
There are several types of clips available on modern inline skates. Metal buckles, for instance, provide extra durability and a more secure closure, while plastic clips are lighter but may wear out faster. Additionally, some skates use memory buckles, like the ones found on the Roces M12 and Fifth Element models. These clips allow you to set your preferred tension once, so you don't have to adjust them every time you skate.
Receivers
The buckle receiver is another important component that connects the clip to the skate. There are two main types of buckle receivers: those that allow the clip to insert from the top and those that require insertion from the bottom. The receiver is typically secured with a single mounting bolt, regardsless of the type.
Adjusting buckles to fit your needs
When it comes to buckles, adjusting the length is easy. Using scissorrs most clips can be cut to size. The length is usually measured from the joint to the tip of the strap. On skates where the clip goes inside the cuff, cutting off excess length can reduce resistance and make it easier to close the clip tightly.
Standard buckle mount (SBM)
Most modern inline skates use a Standard Buckle Mount (SBM) system. This system mounts the clip with two bolts spaced 1.5 centimeters apart. The mounting standard has stayed consistent throughout inline skating history. As a result, you can still replace clips from the 1980s or 1990s with modern ones. To simplify finding compatible clips, we label all fasteners with this mounting standard as SBM on our website.
For example, if you need a clip with three mounting points, it will be labeled as SBM3 on our site. If it only has two mounting points, it will be labeled SBM2. Additionally, we include the length of the clip (e.g., 20 centimeters), so you can easily find the right fit.
Memory buckle standard
The Memory Buckle Standard is another popular system, particularly on Roces skates. These clips are typically not compatible with other skate models, but some skaters have successfully modified their skates to fit a Memory Buckle. By drilling extra holes or modifying the receiver, it is possible to install a Memory clip on a non-compatible skate. While this requires some DIY skills, it can be a great option for those looking for a more customized fit.
Browse all buckles
If you're looking for the right clips for your inline skates, check out our complete selection: Browse Buckles.
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