LandRollers

Radically-Designed Skates
Improve Performance

Article from PhysOrg.com

This spring, California-based LandRoller will introduce the first major innovation in skating in over 25 years. Its radical new skate design cranks up performance to take skaters to places – and surfaces – never before imaginable.
LandRoller’s patented skate technology uses an innovative, angled, out-of-line wheel configuration that provides vastly improved performance over traditional inline skates. The LandRoller skate combines better stability and control with a mind-blowing appearance. The first impression of many people is that they look "wrong" and won’t work, but after a test ride, their conclusion is that they are so "right".

"Without a doubt, the LandRoller technology is amazing and offers a head-turning, cutting edge product," said LandRoller CEO Brian Conners. "It’s so much fun to watch people step into the skates for the first time because they are consistently amazed and delighted by the experience."

LandRoller Technology – Get Out of Line!

The many advantages of large wheels are well accepted, but, despite numerous attempts, a workable design has eluded skate manufacturers – until now. LandRollers have two large wheels mounted on the outside of each boot and angled inward. The resulting wheel configuration improves stability, maneuverability, safety, ride smoothness and braking. LandRoller’s large, angled wheels can roll over obstacles that hinder inline skates, while maintaining the same low center of gravity and skating dynamics as a traditional recreational skate.

The LandRoller skate was conceived 10 years ago. Since then, many prototypes were built, tested and improved upon. That evolution has resulted in a marvelous product. Those who have tried LandRoller skates report improved agility and a great reduction in wheel chatter, resulting in a smoother ride. Professional skaters and street testers have been impressed by LandRoller skates’ ability to tame rough surfaces. LandRoller has several enhancements under development, including state-of-the-art braking, a variety of wheels and tires, and high-performance options for off-road use.

Bringing Together the Best

LandRoller incorporates the best components and leading edge technology. LandRoller has established strategic partnerships with leading skate companies including the largest maker of skate wheels in the world, Bravo Corporation (Hyper wheels), and Minson, a top inline boot and skate maker. The company also enjoys the support of a talented management team with decades of combined experience in the sporting goods market. The unique nature of the LandRoller skate, combined with these partnerships, positions the company to make LandRoller the new leader in skating.

LandRoller will debut their new skates January 17 - 19 at the Super Show in Orlando. Skates will be available to consumers in Spring 2005. LandRoller skates will retail for $249.

Article from PhysOrg.com

Q&A with Brian Conners, CEO & President of LANDROLLER

I wrote to Brian Conners with questions of my own regarding the new skates.

Q:  How does weight distribution and edging principles apply when learning how to skate on LandRollers?

A:  There are definitely some technique difference between LandRollers and inlines.  We have found that generally beginners find that LandRollers are easier to learn on.  That is because they are more stable, offer a smoother ride, and are easier to brake.  Very experienced skaters generally need to skate on LandRoller for about 30 minutes or so before they become comfortable with the technique differences and unlearn their inline muscle memory.

Q:  Is there a big difference? 

A:  We think so, particularly when going over cracks, bumps or stray pebbles.  Most feel that our skates are more fun and allow for easier turns and spins once the technique differences are mastered. 

Q:  There is only two wheels on the skate? 

A:  Yes, there are only 2 wheels on each boot – angled and mounted on the outside.  Where the wheels contact the ground is near the centerline of the boot.  Since the wheels are NOT inline, your foot feels almost like it is on narrow stance quad wheel skates. 

Q: How does the maneuverability compare to roller skates or inline skates? 

A:  Once the proper technique is learned, most feel that certain types of spins or turn maneuvers are easier on LandRollers, but other types of turns may be easier on inlines. 

Q:  I do a lot of skate dancing, are these skates designed more for distance?  

A: LandRollers were originally designed as an off-road skate.  We will offer flat-free air-ride tires in a few months to allow people to go off-road if they so desire.  Our first skates, which will be available in about May, are more of a recreational or distance skate.  We have, however, been approached by several skate dance teams who want to use them.  As you can see from the David Lenoir video on our web site, unique dance moves can definitely done with LandRollers.

Q:  Because of the large wheel size, what is top speed on the skates? 

A: We don’t know yet, but David Lenoir feels that he can break his existing world skate speed record for kite skating on LandRollers.

Q: I would love to know more, I have posted the PhysOrg article on my web site, but would very much like to post more information.  Once the skate debuts in the spring, will there be demos around the country for skaters to try them? 

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