HILFE
1. I hear differing stories about what size skate I should purchase. Is my skate size the same as my shoe size?
Get your foot measured in a shoe store on a Brannock scale! Do not trust the size of your street shoes.
When your skates fit properly, you have better balance, more control and more power. Not to mention less blistering, less cramping and storing of skates in the back of the closet.
K2 Inline Skates are manufactured to men's and women's specific foot lasts and fit true to your measured U.S. shoe size in an average width. As proper fit is of great importance to comfort, be sure to try on before use, wherever possible. When making an online purchase, K2 recommends ordering true to measured shoe size for K2 Skates, assuming an average width foot. If you have a wide foot, we recommend purchasing one half size over measured to accomodate volume.
Important: When you are trying on the skates for the first time make sure that your heel is positioned deep in the heel pocket of the skate. While sitting down, put the skate on and kick the heel back into the skate.
Correct Size: Stand with your skates laced and your heel snug in the heel cup. Your toes should just barely feather the end of the toe box. Then bend forward into a skating stance. Your toes should pull back slightly from the toe box. Cramped toes are bad, but so are loose sloppy ones. Sizing is a preference, but it is known that a snug fit allows better response from your skates.
Wrap: You want an even yet snug fit. To achieve this fit, adjust your laces and/or power straps to alleviate pressure and spread support evenly over your entire foot. Flexibility VS Support: Both are important, but in different places. Forward flex is critical to maintaining the right skating stance with knees bent, shoulders and head centered over the skates. Lateral stability, on the other hand, is crucial for a powerful, comfortable stroke.
When your skates fit properly, you have better balance, more control and more power. Not to mention less blistering, less cramping and storing of skates in the back of the closet.
K2 Inline Skates are manufactured to men's and women's specific foot lasts and fit true to your measured U.S. shoe size in an average width. As proper fit is of great importance to comfort, be sure to try on before use, wherever possible. When making an online purchase, K2 recommends ordering true to measured shoe size for K2 Skates, assuming an average width foot. If you have a wide foot, we recommend purchasing one half size over measured to accomodate volume.
Important: When you are trying on the skates for the first time make sure that your heel is positioned deep in the heel pocket of the skate. While sitting down, put the skate on and kick the heel back into the skate.
Correct Size: Stand with your skates laced and your heel snug in the heel cup. Your toes should just barely feather the end of the toe box. Then bend forward into a skating stance. Your toes should pull back slightly from the toe box. Cramped toes are bad, but so are loose sloppy ones. Sizing is a preference, but it is known that a snug fit allows better response from your skates.
Wrap: You want an even yet snug fit. To achieve this fit, adjust your laces and/or power straps to alleviate pressure and spread support evenly over your entire foot. Flexibility VS Support: Both are important, but in different places. Forward flex is critical to maintaining the right skating stance with knees bent, shoulders and head centered over the skates. Lateral stability, on the other hand, is crucial for a powerful, comfortable stroke.
2. What is K2 Skates Warranty Policy and what do I do if I have a warranty issue?
K2 warrants its products to be free of manufacturing defects for one year from the date of purchase as validated by a copy of your original sales receipt. For the full warranty policy, click here (PDF format).
What is Covered Structural cracks or breaks of the cuff, cuff rivets, buckles, frame, brake mount, or wheel hubs due to a manufacturing defect. Stitching, zippers, lace locks, lace loops, pull loops & Velcro tabs that are not a result of normal wear and tear and are due to a manufacturing defect. Delaminating of boot sole due to a manufacturing defect.
What is Not Covered Any problem resulting from impact, misuse, abuse, or neglect. This includes but is not limited to rail, curb, & road hazard damage. Damage from heat molding boots. Cosmetic issues including but not limited to, sun-faded graphics, and oxidation or rust. Skate damage resulting from failure to maintain tightness of hardware, including but not limited to axle shafts and/or screws, brake hardware, & frame to boot hardware. Any damage resulting from failure to use correct hardware, i.e. removal of brake without use of standard length replacement axle. Damage caused by any modifications made outside of the K2 facility. Boot damage or material abrasions from falling, curbing, or sliding rails i.e. scruffs, tears, & holes. Normal wear and tear, i.e., boot laces, wheels, bearings, material wear, fading, discoloration, etc. Size and Fit issues. Stripped axles or frame spacers.
What to Do if You Have a Warranty Issue Return the product to the authorized K2 dealer where the product was originally purchased if possible.
Bring a copy of your original Sales Receipt. Your Dealer will contact K2 for a return authorization.
What is Covered
What is Not Covered
What to Do if You Have a Warranty Issue
Bring a copy of your original Sales Receipt.
3. How do I release the buckle on my Radical skates?
4. What is a HiLo set-up?
Some K2 Softboot™ Skates are equipped with a HiLo frame (i.e. Moto 100, Electra, & Radical Pro). This combines the speed, stability and smooth ride of the larger of the two wheels, while offering more manuverability from the smaller. If you purchase one of these models special attention is required when rotating the wheels. Please see Skate Maintenance 101 for further details.
5. Where can I find the skate I want? My local dealer does not have it.
Click here to find a dealer near you. If you are still unable to find what you are looking for at your local or online dealer your Authorized K2 dealer can special order any item we sell (dependent on availability).
6. I want to remove my brake, but my skates didn't come with an extra short axle. Where can I get one?
Please see your dealer, or you fill out our parts request form. Be sure to include your phone number in the event we need to contact you for further information.
7. I need to buy parts for my older K2 Skates and the dealer does not have them.
For the U.S. Click here to shop for parts.For all other countries please contact the appropriate subsidiary via the "International/Other" link.
8. What is the maximum wheel size I can put on my skates and where can I find them?
Maximum wheel size will depend upon you skate model and often boot size. Most of our newest skates have the maximum allowable wheel size printed on the frame for your convenience. If you have an older model year skate and would like to obtain information about the maximum wheel size. Click Here
Wheels are available through any good skate shop and a number of online retailers. Click here for a list of dealers near you.
Wheels are available through any good skate shop and a number of online retailers. Click here for a list of dealers near you.
9. What is heat molding and how do I do it?
There are two different types of heat molding processes for different K2 Skate models.
HEAT MOLDING AND FIT INSTRUCTIONS: Radical 100, Radical 90 .
Congratulations on your decision to purchase K2 Radical skates. The R&D team at K2 believes we have created the finest blend of comfort and performance ever achieved in a high end training skate.
Radicals are designed to fit well for the vast majority of people right out of the box. However, to get the most out of these skates we recommend that you heat mold them for a custom fit and even greater skating responsiveness.
If you have any questions about this procedure, please “(contact us)” or your local K2 skate shop professional.
Please follow the instructions below.
1. Supplies:
A. Conventional oven or convection oven or ski boot liner heating stacks. (Do not use a microwave oven; it will damage the boots.)
B. Thin socks
C. An assistant to help make things easier.
2. Boot Preparation:
A. If attached, remove the frame and mounting screws from the bottom of the boot.
B. Unzip the lace cover and loosen the laces enough to put your foot inside the boot.
3. Heating the Boots:
A. Turn the oven on and set it to 200F (95C). If you are using ski boot liner heating stacks consult the owner’s manual and set if for this temperature.
B. When the oven reaches 200F (95C), turn the oven off. If you are using ski boot liner heating stacks keep them running for the duration of the 10 minute heating time.
C. It is recommended that you heat and mold the boots one at a time.
D. Place a boot (without frame and mounting screws) in the center of the oven, equally spaced on all sides from the heating elements and set the timer for 10 minutes.
E. After 10 minutes the sides of the boot and ankle area should become noticeably flexible. The boot is now ready to be custom fit. Ovens may vary so please use the above time as a guideline only. If the boots are not flexible after 10 minutes then leave them in the oven for an extra 5 minutes. DO NOT increase the temperature setting. Boots that have been damaged by excessive heating from any means (heat gun, oven, heating stacks etc.) are not covered under warranty.
4. Molding the Boots:
A. Put on a thin sock on the foot to be molded. Take the boots out of the oven and put them on immediately. Warning - the metal eyelets, zipper handle, buckle levers etc. will be HOT to the touch! Please be careful.
B. Lace the boots until they are snug, but not as tight as one might skate in them because the leather around the eyelets can be damaged when it is warm and soft.
C. Weight the boot (stand in the basic skating position) for about 5-10 minutes to allow the boots to cool and get firm. You or your assistant should apply additional hand and finger pressure to important areas such as the heel, ankle under the cuff and sides of the arch on medial and lateral sides for the best possible molding.
D. When the boot has cooled and become stiffer and supportive (5-10 minutes) remove it and mold the other boot starting with step 2A above.
E. When you have completed both boots install your frames and wheels and go skating!
Note: It is possible to perform localized molding of certain areas with a heat gun but this procedure is difficult and risky. Using a heat gun is not recommended by K2 due to the risk of damaging synthetic boot materials from too high a setting on the heat gun or by prolonged heating in one area of the boot. Boots that have been damaged by excessive heating from any means (heat gun, oven, heating stacks, etc.) are not covered under warranty.
HEAT MOLDING AND FIT INSTRUCTIONS: K2 Recreational and Fitness Skates
Yes, K2 skate liners can be 'heat molded'. It only requires the use of a hair dryer.
A. First you'll want to remove the insole from the skates.
B. Heat the area causing discomfort for about three minutes, focus the hot stream of air on that local area only; hairdryer on hot setting. Frequently check the area with your fingertips...you'll want to get it quite warm, but not burn the liner (or your foot).
C. Once very warm, the foam in the liner will become soft and you'll be able too manipulate it easily with firm finger pressure. When it is at this state, replace the insole and insert your stockinged foot into the heated skate.
D. Lace it up snug, and stand in a coasting position (it helps to have both skates on) for about ten to fifteen minutes until the foam has conformed and cooled.
E. Repeat for other skate.
The first time you go out to skate after performing a heat mold, you should feel a big difference. Pay close attention to how they fit on your first time out. You can always go back and do a little more if necessary. You can repeat this process up to about four times before the foam is compromised.
HEAT MOLDING AND FIT INSTRUCTIONS: Radical 100, Radical 90 .
Congratulations on your decision to purchase K2 Radical skates. The R&D team at K2 believes we have created the finest blend of comfort and performance ever achieved in a high end training skate.
Radicals are designed to fit well for the vast majority of people right out of the box. However, to get the most out of these skates we recommend that you heat mold them for a custom fit and even greater skating responsiveness.
If you have any questions about this procedure, please “(contact us)” or your local K2 skate shop professional.
Please follow the instructions below.
1. Supplies:
A. Conventional oven or convection oven or ski boot liner heating stacks. (Do not use a microwave oven; it will damage the boots.)
B. Thin socks
C. An assistant to help make things easier.
2. Boot Preparation:
A. If attached, remove the frame and mounting screws from the bottom of the boot.
B. Unzip the lace cover and loosen the laces enough to put your foot inside the boot.
3. Heating the Boots:
A. Turn the oven on and set it to 200F (95C). If you are using ski boot liner heating stacks consult the owner’s manual and set if for this temperature.
B. When the oven reaches 200F (95C), turn the oven off. If you are using ski boot liner heating stacks keep them running for the duration of the 10 minute heating time.
C. It is recommended that you heat and mold the boots one at a time.
D. Place a boot (without frame and mounting screws) in the center of the oven, equally spaced on all sides from the heating elements and set the timer for 10 minutes.
E. After 10 minutes the sides of the boot and ankle area should become noticeably flexible. The boot is now ready to be custom fit. Ovens may vary so please use the above time as a guideline only. If the boots are not flexible after 10 minutes then leave them in the oven for an extra 5 minutes. DO NOT increase the temperature setting. Boots that have been damaged by excessive heating from any means (heat gun, oven, heating stacks etc.) are not covered under warranty.
4. Molding the Boots:
A. Put on a thin sock on the foot to be molded. Take the boots out of the oven and put them on immediately. Warning - the metal eyelets, zipper handle, buckle levers etc. will be HOT to the touch! Please be careful.
B. Lace the boots until they are snug, but not as tight as one might skate in them because the leather around the eyelets can be damaged when it is warm and soft.
C. Weight the boot (stand in the basic skating position) for about 5-10 minutes to allow the boots to cool and get firm. You or your assistant should apply additional hand and finger pressure to important areas such as the heel, ankle under the cuff and sides of the arch on medial and lateral sides for the best possible molding.
D. When the boot has cooled and become stiffer and supportive (5-10 minutes) remove it and mold the other boot starting with step 2A above.
E. When you have completed both boots install your frames and wheels and go skating!
Note: It is possible to perform localized molding of certain areas with a heat gun but this procedure is difficult and risky. Using a heat gun is not recommended by K2 due to the risk of damaging synthetic boot materials from too high a setting on the heat gun or by prolonged heating in one area of the boot. Boots that have been damaged by excessive heating from any means (heat gun, oven, heating stacks, etc.) are not covered under warranty.
HEAT MOLDING AND FIT INSTRUCTIONS: K2 Recreational and Fitness Skates
Yes, K2 skate liners can be 'heat molded'. It only requires the use of a hair dryer.
A. First you'll want to remove the insole from the skates.
B. Heat the area causing discomfort for about three minutes, focus the hot stream of air on that local area only; hairdryer on hot setting. Frequently check the area with your fingertips...you'll want to get it quite warm, but not burn the liner (or your foot).
C. Once very warm, the foam in the liner will become soft and you'll be able too manipulate it easily with firm finger pressure. When it is at this state, replace the insole and insert your stockinged foot into the heated skate.
D. Lace it up snug, and stand in a coasting position (it helps to have both skates on) for about ten to fifteen minutes until the foam has conformed and cooled.
E. Repeat for other skate.
The first time you go out to skate after performing a heat mold, you should feel a big difference. Pay close attention to how they fit on your first time out. You can always go back and do a little more if necessary. You can repeat this process up to about four times before the foam is compromised.
10. SKATE MAINTENANCE 101:
Like any high quality mechanized product, K2 Skates need some basic care to keep them up to their optimum performance level and offer maximum longevity.
These are all elements that can rob your skates of performance and durability. Keep your skates dry, clean, and wheels rotated, and you can expect many happy miles out of your skates.
So here goes:
You've been out rolling on the asphalt, getting back in shape or just maintaining the great shape you are already in, and you notice that your first and last wheels have flat spots worn on the insides. This is a great time to rotate your wheels as well as get in there with a paper towel and clean up your frames, wheels, and bearings!
First the Axles:
You'll want to get your T-handled K-Tool hex wrench and loosen your axle screws or threaded axle shafts. Remove the axles and pull the wheels out of the frame. We find it's best to lay them out in order (first wheel through last) on an old newspaper. Now wipe out those frames really well with the paper towel.
Okay, now for the wheels and bearings. Let's keep those wheels in order!
The Bearings next:
If you have K2 skates with 5mm black steel axles (the diameter is smaller than a #2 pencil), the bearings can be removed by using the 'stepped down' end of the K-Tool Handle. Just push the middle of a bearing and the other bearing will pop out the other side of the wheel.
If you have 8mm aluminum axles (same diameter as a #2 pencil), you can remove bearings by prying them out with the metal hex-end of the K-Tool. Be sure not to dent the flat shield on the bearing. Okay, now take them all out. Get a clean paper towel and really polish them up. Make them shine! Turn them with your fingers. If it feels like there is grit in there, now is a good time to replace them. Push cleaned or new bearings back into the wheel hubs with their spacers.
Now for the Wheels:
Please note the side that has the printed graphic on it, while keeping the wheels in order. On new skates, the graphic started out life facing the outside of the skate. It will soon be transferred so that it is facing the inside and moved to another position on the frame.
Reassembly!
Same Size Wheel Configurations:
The front wheel, we'll call it #1, should be swapped with the #3 wheel, with the graphic now facing the inside. The #2 wheel should be swapped with the #4 wheel. You can do this on the same skate or swap wheel from the left skate over to the right skate - your choice.
HiLo Wheel Configurations:
HiLo Wheel ConfigurationsSome K2 Inline Skates have two different size wheels therefore they require a slightly different rotation pattern. Using a criss-crossing pattern as listed above swap the #1 wheel the #2 on the opposite skate and the #3 wheel with the #4 wheel on the opposite skate.
You’ve completed skate maintenance, now tighten those axles, and go have fun!
11. What parts set do I need for my skates?
When shopping at the K2 Skate online store, click on the parts kit name for further information and a compatibility listing.
12. What are the advantages of K2's SoftBoot Technology?
K2 revolutionized inline skating with the introduction of the SoftBoot in 1994. It was amazing how quickly all other skates followed suit and started looking like our original SoftBoot™.
Breathability, comfort and support are the key features to look for. SoftBoots made of mesh and synthetic leather give you all three. Beware of any skate resembling a ski boot...these plastic hardshell designs aren't able to deliver the key features that our SoftBoots do. Other things to keep in mind when selecting a boot that is right for you:Higher cut boots provide greater stability; lower cut boots offer greater freedom of movement. Vents help keep your feet cool and dry on long fitness rolls. The cuff should provide lateral support and forward flex with minimal plastic overkill. Look for a cuff that flexes just like your ankle does and offers the amount of stability and support that makes you feel in control.
Breathability, comfort and support are the key features to look for. SoftBoots made of mesh and synthetic leather give you all three. Beware of any skate resembling a ski boot...these plastic hardshell designs aren't able to deliver the key features that our SoftBoots do. Other things to keep in mind when selecting a boot that is right for you:
13. Which model is best for me?
Your dealer will provide assistance with determining which K2 Skate Model will best suit your skating needs.
K2 Skates makes several series of skates, with several models in each Series. Each Series and Model is intended to meet the performance needs of a specific target skater. A conversation with your local K2 Skate Dealer about your skate skills, experience, technique, and intended use will go a long way in choosing the correct model.
K2 Skates makes several series of skates, with several models in each Series. Each Series and Model is intended to meet the performance needs of a specific target skater. A conversation with your local K2 Skate Dealer about your skate skills, experience, technique, and intended use will go a long way in choosing the correct model.
14. How can I get some K2 stickers?
Send us a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you'd like to receive some stickers. (This means we need a totally separate envelope inside the one you're sending us, and it has to be stamped and ready to send back to you with your mailing information.)
If you're in the U.S., send to:
K2 Skates
Sticker Request
> 4201 6the Ave S
Seattle, WA 98108
If you are not in the U.S., please contact a K2 dealer or distributor in your country. Find them here.
If you're in the U.S., send to:
K2 Skates
Sticker Request
> 4201 6the Ave S
Seattle, WA 98108
If you are not in the U.S., please contact a K2 dealer or distributor in your country. Find them here.
15. How can I get K2 to sponsor me?
Street/Vert
In this budget challenged year, sponsorship is only available to the elite up and comers. If you are a street skater you must be able to destroy all obstacles on your skates. Style is the most important thing to consider when putting together your sponsorship tape. If you are a Vert skater and we haven?t heard of you yet, send us a mind-blowing sponsorship tape. Not everyone can be a "Pro", but if you think you have what it takes, send our team manager a video of you, tearing it up.
Send your video to:
Mike Powell
K2 Skates Team Manager
4201 6th Ave S
Seattle, WA 98108
Include an email address on the DVD and Mike will let you know where you stand.
Speed
Currently, we only accept applications for sponsorship in writing. Due to the high volume of sponsorship requests, only those most eligible will receive a written response.
Send applications to:
Mike Powell
K2 Speed Skating Team Manager
4201 6th Ave S
Seattle, WA 98108
In this budget challenged year, sponsorship is only available to the elite up and comers. If you are a street skater you must be able to destroy all obstacles on your skates. Style is the most important thing to consider when putting together your sponsorship tape. If you are a Vert skater and we haven?t heard of you yet, send us a mind-blowing sponsorship tape. Not everyone can be a "Pro", but if you think you have what it takes, send our team manager a video of you, tearing it up.
Send your video to:
Mike Powell
K2 Skates Team Manager
4201 6th Ave S
Seattle, WA 98108
Include an email address on the DVD and Mike will let you know where you stand.
Speed
Currently, we only accept applications for sponsorship in writing. Due to the high volume of sponsorship requests, only those most eligible will receive a written response.
Send applications to:
Mike Powell
K2 Speed Skating Team Manager
4201 6th Ave S
Seattle, WA 98108
16. I am interested in a job/internship with K2
Check out the K2 Sports website for any current job openings.
If you are interested in applying for an internship with K2 Skates please send your resume and cover letter to:
Mike Powell
K2 Marketing Manager
4201 6th Ave S
Seattle, WA 98108.
All applicants must be currently enrolled students.
If you are interested in applying for an internship with K2 Skates please send your resume and cover letter to:
Mike Powell
K2 Marketing Manager
4201 6th Ave S
Seattle, WA 98108.
All applicants must be currently enrolled students.
17. My question isn't here...
SELF SERVICE is fun, quick and easy! Please use the links to the left to view tips and FAQs. If you have a question that is not answered here or have a comment for K2 Skate, please contact us.
If outside of the United States, contact your country subsidiary via the "Other/International" link for your region
If in Korea, please visit www.k2korea.com for contact and other information.
COMMON REQUESTS:
