1. Home
  2. Sports
  3. Inline Skating

What are Bearings Used for on Inline Skates?

By , About.com Guide

Definition: Bearings are the two round metal rings that fit inside the hub of each inline wheel. The purpose of skate bearings is to help the inline wheels rotate freely by reducing friction between the wheel and the axle on the skate frame. Bearings are rated on the ABEC scale which measures the precision tolerance. Most skate bearings are produced in China, but many come from Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Canada and the USA.

Explore Inline Skating

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Introduction to Pilates

Learning Pilates fundamentals can help you get the most out of your exercise regime. More >

  1. Home
  2. Sports
  3. Inline Skating
  4. Inline Skating 101
  5. Inline Skating Glossary
  6. Bearings Definition: What are Bearings Used for on Inline Skates?>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.