How to Remove Rollerblade Brakes

Many inline skates are equipped with rear brakes. Brakes are good for beginners and fitness skating, but they hamper trick skating and are often prohibited in hockey. It may be a better value to buy standard skates and remove the brakes than to purchase specialized skates that don't include brakes (for hockey or tricks) Once the brakes are removed, it's important to get used to skating safely without them before you use them in a different capacity. Also, be aware that using your wheels to stop will cause them to wear out faster, according to London Skaters.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 Allen wrenches
  • Screwdriver
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn the skate upside down so the wheels, not the boot, are facing you. This is important because you can also take a closer look at the wear on the wheels and may chose to rotate them as long as you already have your Allen wrench or screwdriver handy.

    • 2

      Unscrew the fastening screws on each side of the brake using the Allen wrenches or, if applicable, a screwdriver. Some models have one vertical screw holding the brake in place as opposed to two horizontal ones. In some models, the brake may be attached to the back rear axle, so you may be required to completely remove that wheel from the frame before the brake can come out.

    • 3

      Inspect the area of the frame around the brake for wear, damage or rough edges. In cheaper models, brakes don't always protect the bottom of the skates from grinding. This is the appropriate time to apply adhesives, paint or complete minor repairs on the frame (like filing down a rough edge) and boot before you begin a different skating style without the brake.