The first roller derby league in south county !
Protective Gear:
o Helmet. You need a well-fitting multi-purpose helmet. Look for one that is approved for skateboard use. Adjust the straps so that only two fingers fit between the strap and your chin.
o Kneepads: These are second only to good skates for important derby gear. Look for ones that are “pro” level. Go to an actual skate shop for these. General sports stores will not have ones with enough padding. Test them by trying them on and doing a double knee fall in the store. If you feel any discomfort at all, DO NOT get those pads. Brands like TSG Force III, 187 Killer Pads, Scabs, etc are all derby-approved. You will be on your knees a lot when you first start, so protect yourself!
§ *note: some girls wear the soft “volleyball” kneepads underneath their hard-shell outer pads for even more padding and protection. Up to you!
o Elbow pads: Look for ones that will fit you snugly and comfortably without binding. You’ll move your arms when you skate, so make sure you can do so in the ones you choose. These should have a hard plastic plate that goes over the elbow.
o Wrist Guards: should have a hard plastic plate or guard to go over your wrist and the heel of your hand.
o Mouth Guard: A must on the track. Don’t risk your pearly whites! The Protech brand mouth guards are very popular because after fitting they do not have to be removed at all during practice or bout. You can talk and drink with the guard in place. Otherwise, choose a guard that can be molded to your teeth. Remember, if you are on the track, your guard is in! Having any part of it pass your lips means a major penalty immediately! You will be in the penalty box L
Clothing for practice:
o Tights, leggings, yoga pants, etc are all good choices to skate in. You want something that will be clingy to your legs and not get caught on your skates. Bare legs are NOT recommended because you can and will fall and rink rash hurts! J
o Shorts for over the tights are common to prevent “see through” and they are a chance to show some style on the track!
o Knee socks for protecting the lower leg are recommended, but athletic socks are a good idea. You will sweat!
o A bandana, or sweat band is also a good idea. You will sweat, so something to absorb it before it gets to your eyes is always nice.
o Remove jewelry. Don’t risk it!
o Sports bra
o t-shirt, tank top, etc. Athletic, breathable material is always a plus. Did we mention that you’ll sweat?
Skates: Things to look for:
· Metal trucks( the part where your wheels attach to the boot). The rest of the shank can be plastic. The skates you find at regular sports stores are often not safe for derby because you’ll skate harder on them than recommended by the manufacturer. You will just be too awesome for cheap skates.
· Go to a skate shop and try on several pairs. Warning: Ridell skates are listed in men’s sizing and vary widely depending on foot shape. Even if you will order online, try them on in a real store.
· Non-Marking toe stops. White toe stops or “Gumballs” are highly recommended.
Recommended Materials: Nice but not necessary:
· Bearing cleaning kit. Bones makes one that is cheap and works great.
· Skate tool: look for one that can fit all of the nuts and bolts on your skate.
· A set of “outdoor” wheels and bearings. Wednesday night practices are outdoors and some girls prefer the softer outdoor wheels. Not necessary, indoor wheels are fine out there too.
The derby girl’s guide to gear