These footstep enhancers do take up a chunk of the bike lane thanks to that sidewinding leg movement, but you can tote them easily, and gliding your way to work’s got eco-cred.
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Advantages: You get everywhere five times faster than walking, and you don’t have to lock up your rollerblades like you do a bike. Your transpo can be easily tucked in your backpack or swung over your shoulder. You traverse the urban landscape more fluidly, too.
Disadvantages: Sorry, you can’t just roll into most shops and businesses with these monsters on your feet. Kind of a pain in the ass to strap on and off if you’re hoping to run errands. Skate in the rain and you’ll ruin your bearings.
Eco footprint: Other than the petroleum used to make the polyurethane and nylon boot, your footprint is limited to the CO2 emitted as you pant.
Costs: Expect to dole out from $100 to $275-plus.
Body boost: Killer butt-builder and great thigh workout without the impact of, say, running. Plus you’re melting off 250 to 1,250 calories per hour.
Retail tip: For durability, you’ll want an in-line skate that has an aluminum chassis (rather than a crappy plastic chassis) and high-grade cleanable bearings. One company makes skates with a bamboo chassis (Sporting Life sells them). Also, save your brain and get a helmet, as well as knee pads and wrist guards.