Razors Brian Shima II (2)
Written: Jul 21 '02 (Updated Jul 21 '02)
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Pros: Good chasis, wheels
Cons: Liner is not durable, insufficient shock absorption
The Bottom Line: Razors has yet to change there ages-old boot design. If you're looking for more innovation, check out USD skates, or the new Rollerblades.
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| alife's Full Review: Razors Shima 2 Aggressive In-Line Skate |
Brian Shima is undoubtably one of the best known skaters in the world today, with his recent domination at the Montreal IMYTA competition this July '02. These skate are the second version of his skate, with his third skate coming out very soon. They have an extended liner, super-fast soul frames, Elliot backslide plates, Ground Control frames, mindgame Brian Shima wheels (57mm/87a), Abec-5 bearings, and come with Skin shock absorbers.
First things first, the fit is too small, running at least a size down. I wore size 8 in these skates, but next time, I would get a size 9 (at least). The liner is innovative with its extended cuff, but I'm wondering what's so special about since I haven't found it any more comfortable or supportive. The liner is a bit cheaply made; I thinned out these liners in about two months and at about the same time it already started ripping inside the heels and outside on the cuffs. The only shock absorption offered by these skates are a one layer insole with a small gel pad in it. The Skin shock absorbers don't even fit in the skates, whether if it's above the insoles, under, or beneath the liners. They don't even feel good when I step on it.
The soul frames are definitely a plus, compared to other skates I've ridden. They are very fast on smooth ledges, and pretty good on rails with minimum sticking. But depending on what you grind, the soul-frames may wear out fast.
The UFS Ground Control frames are a plus in durability and speed. They are probably the most durable frames on the market, but most people would agree that the grind block is too high. It is difficult to torque or royale if you want agility, balance and response.
Now the mindgame wheels are definitely the most impressive thing I've ridden about this or any other skate. Even though it is only 87a, these wheels have rolled so smooth and lasted so long. I have yet to get any flat spots or separations from these wheels.
I would have to say, these skates are perfect for intermediate and expert skaters. The bad things about these skates is terrible quality liners, very little shock absorption, and the soul frames may wear out fast. The best thing s about these skates is the chasis, flex, and replacability of almost every part.
I was fortunate enough to only have to pay about $200 US for these skates. I wouldn't recommend paying any more than $250 US, because most of Razors skate designs are the same, and you can simply buy a cheaper model and upgrade it.
Pros:
-excellent chasis
-Immaculate wheels
-Very good trick ability
-Excellent flex
Cons:
-Wear out fast
-Cheap liners
-Expensive retail price
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID: alife
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Reviews written: 5
Trusted by: 0 members
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