Gear Review: 187 Wrist Guards

Type of Gear: Wrist Guards

Brand: 187

Price: $19

I went through several sets of Pro-Tec wrist guards before realizing just how terrible they are. I loved the neoprene and how the middle, wraparound strap was the elastic one. But I bought a pair and the first time I feel on them, the seam between the leather and the neoprene ripped. On a brand new pair!

Eventually I decided to shop around and get a new brand. I was interested in the new Triple 8 Wristsavers with the spoon-shaped splint. I tried them on at ECDX and the small was too tight and the medium too big. I also did not like the single strap since I tend to fall on my wrists a lot. AND $30 is a bit steep.

I found the 187s while I was shopping. I already loved my 187 knee pads (and now I have the elbow pads too), and didn't mind the $19 price tag (I was paying $16 for Pro-Tecs). They fit and seemed to be made well.

They've held up to a number of falls and the tough nylon hasn't yet shown any wear (I purchased them in June). I will definitely be purchasing these again.

Cons: None of the straps are elastic. I was initially upset about it, but then I got over it. Material is thicker, so stank lingers. Wash them frequently.

Rita Recommendation: Yes, I'd absolutely recommend these. Durable, comfortable, and protective.

Wheel Review: Radar Bullets

Time to try something new. I'm going to start reviewing gear occasionally on my blog. Up first, Radar Bullet wheels.

Manufacturer: Radar
Wheel: Bullet
Sizes Available: 59mm x 38mm
Hardnesses Available: 88a, 91a, 93a, 95a, 97a

I purchased a set of the 88s initially because my local pro shop had blems for half price ($40 rather than $80. I had been wanting to try a 59mm wheel, so I bought them on a whim. I have since added the 91s and 93s to my collection.

Love the wheels. I used the 88s on our painted, polished concrete Warehouse floor during the warmer months, and even used them some on our sport court bouting floor. The wheels need to be broken in before you try them on sport court though, when I first tried it they still had plenty of grooves and I busted my ass six ways from Sunday. I have skated less on the 91s and 93s, but definitely look forward to doing so this season.

The "Shark" hub design is one of Radar's newest. They released the Radar Villain with it first (a wheel on my 'To Try' list), and then followed up with the Bullet. It's very rigid (and I was switching from Bullets to Diamonds for a period of time).

Cons: The bearings do not sit flush with the edge of the hub on either side, they're kind of sunken in. It's not a great big deal, but I found that if I didn't have it seated properly, it would seat during skating and suddenly my axle nut is loose (that's a confusing thing to explain). Otherwise, no complaints to speak of.


Rita Recommendation: I'd absolutely recommend them for someone looking for a solid wheel in a 59mm height. They come in a wide range of hardnesses and they're useful on many floors.