Everything about skate tools


Short answer

Skate tools help maintain and repair inline skates, ensuring smooth performance. Choosing the right tools prevents damage and makes adjustments easier.

Everything about skate tools

Inline skating is fun, but maintaining your skates properly requires the right tools. From Allen keys to specialized bearing presses, knowing which skate tools to use can make repairs easier and prevent unnecessary damage. In this guide, we’ll cover the essential tools, their differences, and how to choose the best ones.


The basics

The most common tool for inline skating is the Allen key (hex key). Most skates come with a small 4mm Allen key, but these are often low quality and can strip your bolts. Upgrading to a better Allen key with a T-handle provides more leverage and prevents damage.

If you accidentally strip a bolt, don't panic—there are ways to remove it. Check out this guide:
How to remove damaged bolts

Another important tool is the Torx key, which has a star-shaped tip instead of a hexagonal one. Some high-end skates use Torx screws because they provide better grip and reduce wear on bolts.


Allen key sizes

Different skates require different Allen key sizes:

  • 4mm – The most common size for axles.
  • 5mm – Found on some FR, Seba, and Micro frame mounting bolts.
  • 2.5mm – Used for Roces M12 soulplate bolts.
  • 2.85mm – A less common but specific size used in some skates.

Material quality

Not all skate tools are made the same. Cheap Allen keys often use soft steel, which can wear down quickly or damage your bolts. Investing in hardened steel tools ensures longevity and better performance.

Pozidriv vs. Philips

If your skates have cross-head screws, they will either be:

  • Philips – More common and found in standard hardware.
  • Pozidriv – Provides better torque and grip, reducing slipping.

Using the wrong type of screwdriver can strip the screw head, so always check which one your skates require.


Special skate tools

Besides Allen keys, other specialized tools can make maintenance easier:

  • Seba Pro Tool – A multi-functional tool designed for Seba skates, including Allen keys and a wheel remover.
  • Sonic Y Tool – Includes Allen keys, a wheel remover, and a bearing puller.
  • Wheel remover – Helps remove wheels more easily.
  • Metal bearing press – Ensures smooth installation and removal of bearings.
  • RB cuff receiver tool – Used to remove and install cuffs on Rollerblade skates.
  • The Claw – A specialized tool to customize boot fit by adjusting pressure points.

Choosing the best skate tools

If you only need a basic tool, we recommend a T-handle Allen key from FR or Powerslide, which costs around €5 and is easy to carry.

For more advanced tools, the Fila tool is one of the best options, featuring a metal wheel remover that won’t break like plastic alternatives.

If you work on your skates often, consider investing in a Seba Master Tool—one of the strongest ones on the market, made of high-quality steel.


Conclusion: Everything about skate tools

Having the right skate tools makes maintenance easier and prevents damage. Most skaters will need a 4mm Allen key, but specialized tools like the Seba Pro Tool or Sonic Y Tool offer more versatility. Investing in high-quality steel tools ensures longevity and keeps your skates in top condition.

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