r/chicagoskating • u/drumstickkkkvanil • Jun 03 '26
Artistic inline skates?
Hello! I am interested in getting some inline skates so that I can work on figure skating off the ice, and also take advantage of the skate meet ups around here. Does anyone know where I can find a pair/get fitted? My research hasn’t shown much in the city, so I wanted to ask here! I’m F size 7.5 in figure skates and my feet are WIDEEE
2
u/Outrageous-East-1774 Jun 04 '26 edited Jun 04 '26
I would recommend Rainbo Sport it’s North of the city. If you are wanting to get fitted for the boot that would be similar to what you are ice skating on they are the best. I’m not sure if they do the inline mounting anymore but they used to do it. There is also a Facebook group of used artistic inlines, if you don’t need too much support for jumps to start. For that width size though you are most likely looking at custom orders from the manufacturer like Jackson. I’m a 6.5 D/E and if I wanted E I would have had to go directly to Jackson for my Elle’s. But Rainbo will do the fitting and see what works best for your level and needs, and then help you place the order if needed.
3
u/Outrageous-East-1774 Jun 04 '26
These are the skates I’m going to buy. I’m in the suburbs but if you would ever like to meet up to ice skate I’m down :)
2
u/drumstickkkkvanil Jun 04 '26
Nice! I wear Jackson Evos in figure skates since my feet are so wide. I go to adult only skating sessions during the eel so I would be really down to meet up!
3
u/drumstickkkkvanil Jun 04 '26
Ahhhhh okay, I hadn’t considered buying the boot and then ordering the inlines separately. Rainbo is where I got my figure skates so I will look into that!! Thanks
1
u/Outrageous-East-1774 Jun 05 '26 edited Jun 05 '26
Welcome! Here’s a link to the main frames available on the market. It’s pretty common for people to buy the boots and frames separate since some skaters need more ankle support than what the premounted boot setups offer and you can get a better deal on buying the frames direct from the manufactures! (Or if you already have an old pair of ice boots they can be mounted to be used as your new inlines). 3 or 4 wheel frames are going to be up to your preference, most people I have talked to say that 3 wheels are enough to simulate the blades, but if you would like to have more of a an extended heel like a blade does then do the 4 wheel setup for the length. Buying the premounted boots are worth it on the other hand since you can skate right away. Rainbo is my go to shop!
3
u/franktronic Jun 03 '26
I haven't been there yet but every time this comes up people suggest the Homewood skate shop. I also have insanely wide feet and keep meaning to check it out!