Review Roces M12 skates

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In this review of the Roces M12, we explore the history, features, and ways to improve this iconic skate. The Roces M12, a staple in aggressive skating, has evolved since its introduction in 1996, but it remains a favorite for its classic design and reliable performance.

In this review of the Roces M12, we’ll cover its history, current models, and customization options. The Roces M12 is an iconic aggressive skate, often likened to the legendary Converse All-Star sneaker. The M12 debuted in 1996, but its shell design dates back to the late 1970s when it was first used for ice skates. Later, this same shell was adopted by Rollerblade in the early 1980s, marking the beginning of modern inline skating.

History of the Roces M12: review Roces M12

The Roces M12 skate has a rich history. Initially, it started as an ice skate in the late 70s, then transitioned to a rollerblade skate in the early 80s under the Rollerblade brand. Roces began using this shell under their own name in 1991. By 1996, the first Roces Majestic 12, or M12, was released, featuring an aggressive frame with small wheels designed for low ground clearance, making it easier to perform grinds. The original M12 had a high cuff, which was later lowered in the late 90s. In 2003, the M12 received its first soleplate, a significant upgrade that remains unchanged for over 20 years.

The same year, Roces collaborated with Jon Julio to create the Valo brand, which used the M12 mold but wrapped in a fabric skin. Valo became the primary brand for Roces’ aggressive skates until 2013, when Roces reintroduced the M12 under its original name. Today, the M12 continues to be a popular choice for skaters, with several editions available.

Editions: review Roces M12

Currently, there are three main editions of the Roces M12 on the market:

1. UFS Recycle: This is the most affordable version, featuring softer materials, a thinner liner, and lower-quality wheels. The frame is also weaker with only 6mm axles, making it less durable.

2. Team Skates: These skates offer the same high-quality materials as the pro skates but without the association with a specific skater. The royalties from these skates go to the entire team.

3. Pro Skates: Designed by professional skaters like Nils Jansons, these skates are similar to the team skates in quality but feature custom designs and offer royalties to the pro skater.
   
   
   

Fit and comfort: review Roces M12

The Roces M12 is known for its narrow fit and tends to run one or two sizes smaller than other skates. This unique sizing means that if you have wide feet, this skate might not be for you. Instead, consider the Roces Fifth Element or another wider-fitting skate. Additionally, Roces advertises the M12 in single sizes, but in reality, these are double sizes (e.g., 41/42 or 43/44). This double sizing is more accurate and allows skaters to choose the right size with confidence.

Raised heel

The Roces M12 features a raised heel, which is typical for most aggressive skates. This design keeps your weight slightly forward, improving control. Unlike other skates that might include a shock absorber, the M12 uses a solid plastic block under the heel. While this offers better control, it may not provide as much cushioning for high-impact landings. However, many pro skaters successfully use this setup for big jumps without issue. Adding an extra shock absorber is possible but not recommended, as it could affect the skate’s flex and overall feel.

Liner: review roces m12

The M12 comes with two types of liners. The team and pro skates feature a thicker, more comfortable liner, while the UFS Recycle edition has a thinner liner. The thicker liner provides more control by locking your foot in place, but it also takes up more space, making the skate feel tighter. Over time, these liners break in significantly, with padding compressing from about 1cm to 0.5cm. This break-in process will eventually make the skate more comfortable.

Buckle

The M12 is equipped with a memory buckle, one of the best on the market. This buckle allows you to set the perfect length once, and it will lock into the same position every time you close it. Unlike standard buckles, which require you to find the right spot each time, the memory buckle ensures consistency and convenience.

Flex

The flex of the Roces M12 is considered ideal for aggressive skating. The cuff provides excellent forward flex, locking around your ankle for better control. Sideways flex is also strong, making the skate perfect for grinding. The M12’s flex may be too loose for larger wheels or high frames, making it better for standard aggressive setups. The cuff is bolted on, so it’s not replaceable, but this prevents losing cuff bolts during a session.

Soleplate

The M12’s soleplate, designed in 2003, is narrower than modern soleplates and features a backslide groove with an unconventional shape. While this design works for many skaters, some might find it too narrow or the groove too shallow. There are aftermarket soleplates available for those looking to customize their M12, offering wider options and different groove shapes.

Frame

The M12 uses the UFS mounting standard, making it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket frames. While the frame that comes with the pro and team skates is solid and durable, the UFS Recycle frame is less reliable, with loose axles being a common issue. Adding a small washer between the axle and the frame can help tighten the wheels and improve stability. For skaters who want to improve their ride, upgrading to a more advanced frame, like the Wish frame, is a popular choice.

Wheels

The Roces M12 comes with two types of wheels: black/white wheels, which are faster and higher quality, and gray wheels, which are slower but still durable. While the stock wheels are fine for most skaters, upgrading to better-quality wheels, such as those from Undercover, can significantly improve speed and performance.

Customization options

There are several ways to customize the Roces M12 to improve its performance:

• Waxed laces: Upgrading to waxed laces provides a tighter, more secure fit.
• Superfeet insoles: Adding a hard insole, like the Superfeet insole, enhances responsiveness by better translating your foot’s movements to the skate.
• Better wheels: Upgrading to metal core wheels or those from Undercover can increase speed and durability.
• Aftermarket frames: For a better balance between grinding and rolling, consider adding a Wish frame or another advanced frame.
• Soleplate colors: You can customize the look of your M12 by changing the color of the soleplate, with options like red, black, and yellow available.
• Trinity adapter: If you prefer cruising over aggressive skating, you can remove the soleplate and add a Trinity adapter to mount any Trinity frame on the boot, though this will remove the ability to grind.
  
  
  

Conclusion: review Roces M12

The Roces M12 is a classic skate with a rich history and a loyal following. While it may have some limitations, such as its narrow fit and outdated soleplate design, it remains a solid choice for aggressive skaters who value control and tradition. With various customization options available, skaters can tailor the M12 to their specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re new to aggressive skating or a seasoned pro, the Roces M12 offers a reliable and iconic platform for your skating adventures.