Sure Grip Rebel Avanti Review

While one of us has competed at the professional roller derby level for years, the other was still rapidly progressing as an intermediate-level skater. As such, the need for an elite yet versatile derby skate became paramount. The Sure-Grip Rebel Avanti immediately grabbed our attention as the ideal skate to bridge our experience levels. In this Sure Grip Rebel Avanti review, we’ll share our in-depth joint assessment after investing in this premium model to put it through full rigors from contrasting perspectives.

Table of Contents

Unboxing Our Newly Elevated Rebels

Even the professionals among us were impressed at first unboxing by the craftsmanship and quality materials of the Avanti. The full-grain leather Rebel boots looked incredibly durable yet supple enough to break in perfectly. And the details like lace locks, tongue straps, and plush padding implied outstanding comfort.

Slipping them on, we loved how the wide laces and tensioned tongue strap ensured a completely locked-in, customized fit. The firm-yet-flexible boots provided outstanding all-around foot security too.

But it was the Avanti’s aluminum plates that really elevated them as a professional-grade setup. Discarding standard nylon, these rigid yet lightweight plates promised unrivaled responsiveness and stability – mandatory for elite derby performance. Matched with premium Sure-Grip fugitive wheels, bearings, and stops, we sensed incredible acceleration, control, and agility right out of the box.

Putting Pro Performance to the Test

Rather than test for speed out of the gate, our focus was on evaluating the Avantis’ ruggedness and ability to handle derby’s repeated punishments. From the novice intermediate’s perspective, the robust full-grain leather boots and Avanti aluminum plates inspired confidence. These skates could take a beating.

For the veteran pro, that confidence was quickly validated. No matter how explosive the start, violent the stop, or impactful the hit absorbed, the Avanti held its integrity. The boots remained crease-free and protected feet from funky angles. The rigid aluminum plates shrugged off hits and never rattled loose.

We were both blown away at how the Avantis conquered rugged outdoor environments too. Where previous skates wavered over cracks and debris, these transitioned over inconsistencies without compromising traction or stability. The sturdy boots flexed appropriately to absorb bumps while the wheels maintained ideal surface contact.

Perhaps most impressive was the Avanti’s performance absorbing repeated hits and tumbles. High-speed collisions that might have dislodged wheels or plates on other skates did little to disrupt the Sure-Grips’ soundness and smooth performance. Both skaters rapidly gained faith in the skates’ protective capabilities.

After those first intensive durability tests, we were incredibly eager to see how the Avantis would hold up over a true, prolonged derby season.

After months of Grueling Derby Duty

With the pro logging well over 100 sessions and the improving intermediate over 50 bouts, the Sure Grip Avantis have shown their true colors:

Comfort

The full leather boots broke in beautifully, securing our feet like a pillow-lined vice. Abundant cushioning provides uncompromising impact protection yet responsiveness when needed. Some added venting would reduce clamminess, but comfort is elite. 8.5/10

Performance

Simply put, the Avantis offer the most explosive acceleration, precise edging, seamless momentum transfers, and confident stopability we’ve ever experienced in a derby skate. They provide an uncompromising pro-level skating experience at any intensity. 9.5/10

Durability

Despite the mileage we’ve logged in these Avantis on indoor and outdoor surfaces, plus withstanding countless tumbles and hits, the boots show no degradation beyond minor scuffing. The aluminum plates remain unbent too. We expect years of peak lifespan before considering a new setup. 9.5/10

Value

At $275, these represent a premium investment as they should be for pro-level derby skates. But the return in performance, comfort, and peace of mind for dedicated derby athletes is worth every penny and more in our opinion. An easy 10/10 value rating from us.

Technical information

Used for: Roller Derby / Speed Skating
Boot Material: Leather Boot
Plate: Aluminum plate
Wheel Size: 62mm
Wheel Hardness: 92A
Bearings: ABEC 7
Toe Stop: Carrera toe stop
Price: 275$
Available colors: black
Sizes: Men – 4-14, Women 5-11

The Pros and Cons of Sure-Grip Rebel Avanti Skates

The Avantis’ Strengths

Premium full-grain leather boot
Elite-level cushioning, security, and impact protection
Game-changing aluminum plate power transfer
Smooth 62mm fugitive wheels, bearings, and toe stops
Outdoor-ready stability and shock absorption
Incredible durability withstanding the most abuse
Ideal for intermediate to professional derby levels

Potential Downsides

Substantial price point for the real investment
Limited sizing options with no half-sizes available

Who Needs Avanti-Grade Skating

We recommend the Sure-Grip Rebel Avanti for:

Intermediate to elite-level roller derby skaters
Those wanting pro-level acceleration and responsiveness
Versatile performance transitioning indoors to outdoors
Competitors who prioritize comfort and durability
Skaters committed to making the investment

They may be excessive for

Beginner derby skaters still developing the basics
Casual recreational skaters unwilling to invest fully

But for driven derby skaters of all levels seeking a premium, high-performance setup, you won’t find a more capable package than the Avanti.

Our Final Verdict

We give the Sure-Grip Rebel Avanti skates a resounding 4.5 out of 5-star rating. They’ve delivered unparalleled pro-level performance, comfort, responsiveness, and sheer abuse-handling ability through our most intense testing. While a sizable investment, you simply cannot put a price on the confidence they inspire at the highest levels.

Whether taking your roller derby skills to the professional ranks or transitioning as an avid intermediate, the Avanti setup is an investment in your present – and future – derby greatness. With Sure-Grip’s proven expertise and quality backing Avanti’s elite performance design, you have everything required for utter derby domination. Step up your shredding with these skates!

We hope you enjoyed our Sure Grip Rebel Avanti review, you can explore more reviews of other Sure Grip Skates and find out why they’re a fan favorite!