The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute recently sent six helmets - three in the $150 or more price range and three in the $20 or less price range - to a leading United States test lab. Surprisingly, the impact test results were nearly identical and there was hardly any differences in performance. They decided that paying more may get a more attractive helmet with more ventilation and better fit options, but the budget models offered the same basic impact protection as the expensive ones.

Their sample was small, but the results shown in the institute's summary article on cheap versus expensive bicycle helmets mean that you can shop for a bicycle helmet (also good for inline skating) in the United States and feel comfortable with safety performance at almost any price. Of course, it is still important to find a helmet that fits, so that it will protect your head on contact.

There may still be room for you on Zephyr Adventures' Florida Skating Tour from December 12-16, 2009. Liz Miller of Get Rolling, along with friends Gary and Sonya, will be guiding the tour along four trails in the Gulf Coast region. Everyone is welcome from advanced beginners to skaters with speed skills and there are multiple route options as well as van support available every day.

If you want book a pre-holiday winter getaway with Liz, register at Zephyr Skating Adventures.

The women's battle was finally skated on Thursday night at Polideportivo de Villa Urquiza, as reported by Sebastien Laffargue.
Jenifer Wolkowski won the women's final battle, followed by Andrea Malladott in second place and Fernanda Canepa in third place in a field of ten contestants.

1. Jenifer Wolkowski - Argentina
   
   
2. Andrea Malladott - Argentina
   
   
3. Fernanda Canepa - Argentina
   
   
4. Analia Carey - Argentina

The complete battle results are posted on the World Slalom Series official site.

Giving gifts that will help keep your loved ones moving is a good plan for the long roll. Growing kids need aerobic activities and adults need them even more. Everyone can benefit from a little fitness on wheels. Try these inline stocking stuffer ideas to help keep loved ones on the go in the New Year:

• Inline starter skates for beginners on a budget
  
  
• Gift certificates for skating lessons
  
  
• Adjustable inline skates for growing kids
  
  
• Sports clothing and accessories
  
  
• Electronic safety gear that goes beyond helmets or pads
  
  
• Try some fitness skates for your goal-oriented skater
  
  
• Roller rink session coupons from your favorite skating center
  
  
• Skating camp enrollment for fun and training

Photo © Don Nichols, iStockphoto.com