The world of roller skating is a vibrant tapestry woven with passion, skill, and an insatiable thirst for adventure. As avid skaters ourselves, we’ve embarked on a quest to uncover the best gear and equipment that can elevate our experiences on wheels. Enter Sure Grip skates – a brand that has captured our attention and ignited our curiosity.
In this comprehensive Sure-Grip skates review, we’ll take you on a journey through the brand’s rich history, dissecting the craftsmanship and innovation that have made it a beloved name among skaters worldwide. From the iconic models that have graced rinks and streets for decades to the cutting-edge designs pushing the boundaries of performance, we’ll leave no stone unturned.
Our goal is to provide you with an in-depth, unbiased analysis that goes beyond mere specifications and delves into the heart of what makes these skates truly exceptional. We’ll explore the nuances of different models, their strengths, and their suitability for various skating styles and disciplines.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro seeking the perfect pair of skates to elevate your game or a newcomer embarking on an exhilarating new adventure, our Sure Grip skates review has something for everyone. Brace yourselves for a roller coaster ride of knowledge, insights, and perhaps even a few surprises along the way.
So, tighten your laces, and let’s roll into the captivating world of Sure Grip skates together!
Table of Contents
A Brief Overview of Sure Grip as a Brand
Sure Grip Skate Co. is a well-known and highly reputable brand that has been a source of inspiration since we first discovered its rich roller skating heritage. Founded in 1937 by visionary John L. Wintz, Sure Grip revolutionized the sport with its groundbreaking phenolic fiber wheel with a rubber inlay, providing unparalleled “Sure Grip” around corners.
Over 85 years later, Sure Grip skates have cemented their status as a renowned name in the skating world. The brand continues to evolve with technology while preserving its roots. Many of its exceptional products are still proudly handcrafted in their facility, just like in 1937. The original phenolic wheel remains a celebrated testament to Sure Grip’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation that has captivated us during our Sure Grip skates review journey.
Sure Grip Roller Skate Models Review
During our exploration of Sure Grip skates, we had the opportunity to thoroughly review a diverse range of their models, each catering to different skating styles and preferences. From the iconic Sure Grip Fame to the sleek Sure Grip Prism, we’ve experienced firsthand the brand’s commitment to quality and performance.
The Sure Grip Model Lineup
Skate Model | Boot Material | Plate | Wheel Size | Wheel Hardness | Bearings | Toe Stop | Price |
Malibu | Vegan boot | Sure-Grip Probe plate | 57mm | 88A | ABEC 3 | Fixed toe stop | 129$ |
Fame | Vegan boot | Nylon plate | 57mm | 95A | ABEC 5 | Carrera toe stop | 159$ to 179$ |
Fame Avanti | Vegan boot | Avanti Aluminum plate | 57mm | 95A | ABEC 5 | Carrera speed stops | 259$ |
Cyclone | Vegan boot | Rock nylon plate | 62mm | 95A | ABEC 5 | Carrera toe stop | 129$ to 140$ |
Rebel | Leather Boot | Probe nylon plate | 62mm | 92A | ABEC 7 | Carrera speed toe stop | 210$ to 229$ |
Rebel Avanti | Leather Boot | Aluminum plate | 62mm | 92A | ABEC 7 | Carrera speed toe stop​ | 275$ |
Stardust | Vegan boot | ROCK nylon plate | 62mm | 78A | ABEC 3 | Adjustable toe stop | 85$ to 130$ |
Boardwalk | Suede boot | ROCK nylon plate | 62mm | 82A | ABEC 3 | Carrera toe stop | 129$ to 260$ |
GT-50 | Vegan boot | ROCK nylon plate | 62mm | 92A | ABEC 5 | Carrera speed toe stop​ | 155$ |
Prism | Vegan boot | ROCK nylon plate | 62mm | 78A | ABEC 3 | Carrera toe stop | Amazon - 75$ - 99$
Walmart - 230$ |
This table serves as a convenient reference, allowing you to easily compare and contrast the various Sure Grip models we’ve had the opportunity to test and review.
Don’t just take our word for it – immerse yourself in our detailed reviews and find the Sure Grip skate that aligns perfectly with your skating style and aspirations. Simply click on the model names or follow the links provided to access our comprehensive analyses. Unlock a world of skating possibilities with Sure Grip!
Are Sure Grip Skates Good?
When it comes to assessing the quality of Sure Grip roller skates, we believe the answer lies in understanding their value for money and aligning them with the appropriate skating styles. Most Sure Grip models offer excellent value, but it’s crucial to recognize that every skate is designed with specific capabilities in mind.
Matching Skates to Skating Environments
One key consideration is the intended skating environment. Indoor skates, while often lightweight and maneuverable thanks to nylon plates, may not withstand the rigors of outdoor use for an extended period. Conversely, skates designed for outdoor skating, featuring more durable metal plates, might feel a bit heavy or cumbersome indoors.
Finding the Right Fit
This is where our individual Sure Grip skate reviews come into play. By aligning your skating style and intended environment with the appropriate model, you can unlock the true potential and value of these skates. For instance, we found the Sure Grip Fame to be an exceptional choice for indoor skating, offering a perfect blend of performance and affordability.
On the other hand, the Sure Grip Boardwalk skates proved to be our outdoor adventure companions, delivering the durability and grip necessary for tackling diverse terrains.
Specialized Models for Specific Disciplines
Moreover, Sure Grip caters to specialized skating disciplines, such as roller derby. In our experience, the Sure Grip Rebel Avanti excelled in this arena, providing the stability, responsiveness, and ruggedness demanded by this intense sport.
Balancing Capabilities and Investment
Ultimately, when you invest in a pair of Sure Grip skates that align with your intended use, you’ll find them to be an excellent value proposition. By understanding the capabilities of each model and matching them to your skating needs, you can enjoy a high-quality skating experience without breaking the bank.
So, are Sure Grip skates good? We believe the answer is a resounding yes – as long as you approach your purchase with a clear understanding of your skating goals and the specific model’s strengths.
Sure Grip Plates
When it comes to roller skate plates, Sure Grip offers a range of options to cater to different skating styles and preferences. Among their lineup, two standout choices are the Rock Nylon plate and the Avanti aluminum plate.
The Rock Nylon Plate
Lightweight and agile, the Rock Nylon plate is a popular choice for those seeking a nimble skating experience. Crafted from durable nylon, these plates strike a delicate balance between performance and portability. One of their key advantages is their featherweight construction, allowing for effortless maneuverability on the rink or smooth gliding on the streets.
However, it’s important to note that while the Rock Nylon plate excels in terms of lightweight design, it may not be the ideal choice for aggressive or high-impact skating. Its nylon construction, while robust, can potentially compromise durability under extreme conditions.
The Avanti Aluminum Plate
On the other end of the spectrum lies the Avanti aluminum plate, a true powerhouse designed for those who demand unwavering stability and durability. Crafted from high-quality aluminum, these plates are built to withstand the rigors of aggressive skating disciplines, such as roller derby or park skating.
The Avanti’s robust construction ensures a responsive and reliable ride, even when subjected to intense forces and impacts. While heavier than their nylon counterparts, these plates offer unparalleled control and confidence, especially during high-speed maneuvers or challenging terrain.
Quality Across the Board
Regardless of your preference, one thing is certain: Sure Grip plates are synonymous with quality. Both the Rock Nylon and Avanti options are meticulously engineered to deliver exceptional performance and longevity, upholding the brand’s reputation for excellence.
When selecting the appropriate plate, it’s crucial to consider your skating style, terrain preferences, and desired level of agility versus durability. By aligning your needs with the right Sure Grip plate, you’ll unlock a truly remarkable skating experience that seamlessly blends performance, comfort, and reliability.
Sure Grip Toe Stops: Compact yet Dependable
One component that often goes overlooked but plays a crucial role in a smooth skating experience is the toe stop. In our Sure Grip skates review, we couldn’t help but appreciate the brand’s attention to detail when it comes to this small yet mighty feature.
The Carrera Toe Stop
Most Sure-Grip roller skates come equipped with the Carrera toe stop, a compact and well-designed option that strikes a nice balance between functionality and unobtrusiveness. These toe stops are relatively small in size, ensuring they won’t get in your way during fluid movements or intricate footwork.
Compact but Capable
Despite their diminutive stature, the Carrera toe stops demonstrate impressive grip and responsiveness when you need to come to a controlled stop or execute tight turns. Their compact design also contributes to a sleeker overall look, complementing the aesthetics of various Sure-Grip skate models.
Wear and Tear Considerations
While the Carrera’s toe stops excel in performance and minimalist design, it’s important to note that their smaller size can lead to faster wear and tear compared to larger alternatives. Frequent skaters or those who heavily rely on their toe stops may need to replace them more regularly to maintain optimal grip and control.
Ease of Adjustment
One aspect we particularly appreciated about Sure Grip’s toe stops is their adjustability. Most models allow for easy tightening or loosening of the toe stop, enabling you to customize the tension and responsiveness to your personal preferences or skating style.
Overall, the Carrera toe stop exemplifies Sure Grip’s commitment to combining practical functionality with a streamlined design. While replacement may be required more frequently due to their compact size, these toe stops undoubtedly contribute to an enjoyable and controlled skating experience across various Sure Grip models.
Understanding the Sure Grip Sizing Chart
Getting the right size of roller skates is crucial for both comfort and performance. A poorly fitting skate can lead to discomfort, reduced control, and potential injury. The Sure Grip sizing chart is designed to help you find the best fit for your feet.
To use the Sure Grip size chart, you’ll need to measure your foot’s length and width. The chart will guide you to the corresponding size that would provide the best fit. Remember, the perfect fit would feel snug but not tight. It’s also important to note that Sure Grip sizing may differ from other brands, so always refer to the specific brand’s size chart when purchasing.
However, even with a size chart, there may be some common sizing issues. For instance, skaters with wide feet may find a regular size too narrow, while those with narrow feet might find the skate too wide.
Selected Size | Women | Men | UK | EU | Foot Length (inches) |
4 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 36 | 9 |
5 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 37 | 9.3 |
6 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 38 | 9.6 |
7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 40 | 10 |
8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 41 | 10.3 |
9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 42 | 10.6 |
10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 43 | 11 |
11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 44 | 11.3 |
12 | 12 | 11 | 46 | 11.6 | |
13 | 13 | 12 | 48 | 12 | |
14 | 14 | 13 | 48 | 12.3 |
Our Final Thoughts
As we reach the end of our journey through the world of Sure Grip skates, we can’t help but feel a deep sense of admiration for this brand’s unwavering commitment to excellence. From its humble beginnings in a small Southern California garage to its current status as a renowned name in the skating community, Sure Grip has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible on wheels.
Throughout our extensive review process, we’ve had the privilege of exploring a diverse range of Sure Grip models, each one catering to different skating styles, disciplines, and preferences. What has truly set this brand apart is its ability to strike a delicate balance between honoring its rich heritage and embracing cutting-edge innovation.
Throughout our review, we’ve also been impressed by Sure Grip’s attention to detail, from the quality of their plates and bearings to the thoughtful design of components like the Carrera toe stops. It’s clear that every aspect of these skates has been meticulously crafted with the end-user experience in mind.
Ultimately, our Sure Grip skates review has reinforced our belief that this brand represents a harmonious fusion of tradition, innovation, and a genuine passion for the sport of roller skating. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran seeking the perfect pair of skates to elevate your game or a newcomer eager to embark on an exhilarating new adventure, Sure Grip has something to offer for every skater.
So, as we bid farewell to this comprehensive review, we wholeheartedly encourage you to explore the world of Sure Grip skates. Embrace the brand’s rich legacy, immerse yourself in their commitment to quality, and let their passion for skating ignite your own. The journey ahead is sure to be a thrilling one, filled with countless adventures and unforgettable moments on wheels.
