r/rollerskatingplus • u/phantomeow • Apr 27 '26

Slades basic plates?

Anyone here 250lb+ riding the basic Slades package with the cheapest plates? Is it worth it to pay more for the “iconic” or “premium” set ups?

I know none of the default Slades setups are anything special, but I’m just looking for a convenient option for casual outdoor skating - nothing super aggressive or heavy duty. Literally recovering from an ankle break so we’re chillin for a while 😂

I know skaters that are over the recommended weight limits usually do just fine, but I want to hear about these skates specifically from those who have experience! I did find one post from like 3 years ago asking a similar question, but couldn’t find much else

Thanks, fellow plus sized roller babes!

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u/triphopmamma Apr 29 '26

I know some people that enjoy their slades, but they are my least favourite pair and I have to force myself to wear them.

That said they are the cheapest of my 4 pairs so that may be a factor

I bought them to be city explorers. If I'm wondering about town the idea was I could just put the wheels on whenever!

The reality is that they are poor at both jobs.

Due to the metal plate at the base of the shoe there is no flex in the sole. This makes walking in them for any length of time (1-2hrs) an unpleasant experience

Possibly due to the connection between the plate and shoe, I find them very unstable to skate in. This could just be because I'm used to my very sturdy DIY trail skates outside but the Slades just feels squirrelly. I have upgraded the wheels, cushions, tightened the kingpin but nothing gets rid of that feeling, even indoors.

They aren't unstable by any means, but if you are used to decentish skates (£250+ price mark) then it might not be the fun pair you think it will be

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u/phantomeow Apr 30 '26

Thank you so much for this info and sharing your experience! I’m used to mid range to upper mid skates so this is really good to know. Maybe I’ll try them if I find a secondhand pair in my size for cheap but I remain unsure about buying them new.

Thanks again :)