what kind of skates?

Question
My Dad and I are planning on buying inline skates.  My question is, what kind to buy?
Should we get soft or hard shells, what size wheels, how many bearings etc.  We are both very good ice skaters, but have never skated on inlines before.  We just want to skate to work and for fun, no hockey or anything like that.

Thanks in advance.

Answer
Hi,
   There are many different kind of inline skates but since your only using them for recreational use, check out the Roller Blade brand.  They have a wide assortment ranging recreational to aggressive skates.

   As far as hard or soft shell?  That's a personal preference.  I would recommend the hard shell for outdoor use.  Your best bet is to go try different brands and styles on.  One will feel better than another and you'll know which one is meant for you.

   The wheel size is important according to what you want them for.  For recreational skating and skating to work, I would recommend a large wheel.  The larger the wheel, the less pushing you have to do. Also make sure the wheel is not to soft.  For a better roll, you need a little harder wheel.  The softer the wheel, the slower they will be.  Which will result in pushing way to hard and getting tired quickly.

   Bearings come with the skates but you can always buy a better bearing later.  Bearings are rated by numbers.  The higher the number, the better the bearing.  I would recommend bearing with atleast a rating of 5.  They make better ones but sometimes you don't always need the best.  See what the skate comes with.  If you like the skate and the price is right, go ahead and get them because you can always upgrade the bearings.  Bearings can be found at any sport store and are easily installed.

   I hope this info helps.  Enjoy your skating and good luck finding the ones you like.  If you should need any helpful hints on skating, let me know.  I can help with that too, they're quite different than ice skates.