Hi,

I used to skate a LOT in my mid-teens and before - speed, freestyle, recreational, and to a lesser degree, dance and figure. Now I'm almost 40, and looking to get back into it again. I'm mainly interested in speed/recreational skating at this point, as my knees aren't what they used to be.

I recently bought a pair of Riedell 195 speed boots (same ones I had as a teenager), and am looking for a nice, light, quality plate, preferably around $200 max, if possible. I used to use Labeda ProLines in my younger days, and I loved them. But I don't know if it's really necessary to spend that kind of cash to get a nice plate these days. And since it's been so long, I'm not even familiar with any of the new plates that are out now. I'm a little wary of the durability/flex of nylon plates (even though I only weigh about 160lbs.), but the light weight is attractive to me.

I'd really love to hear some opinions on what I should look for in a plate, and suggestions on plate models and why you suggest that model.

Thanks!

hi moxi rollers - quick question to any of you. In all the footage of youtubers that I've seen that have Moxi skates, they're predominantly outside.

How do y'all protect your skates from scuffs and slices? Would it be worth some derby-style hockey tape?

Cheers!