Skate pants history and sizing
Short answer
Skate pants have evolved from 90s classics to modern custom-fit designs. The best way to find the perfect skate pants is by trying them on in-store.
The evolution of skate pants
Unlike skates and protective gear, skate pants history is not widely discussed in the inline skating community. However, skate pants have been an essential part of the sport’s culture since the 90s. Brands like Time Machine, Rise Above, and Forsenate were among the first to produce skate pants designed specifically for aggressive skating.
In the early 2000s, Urban Creation and Bulletproof introduced their own skate pants, and later, the American brand Basement followed. Today, very few brands focus on skate pants, making Thisissoul one of the only inline skating brands to develop and sell their own skate pants.
Finding the right fit
One of the biggest challenges in skate pants history has always been finding the right size. Many skaters are familiar with the MT33 size, but what does it actually mean? Traditional pants sizes, measured in inches, refer to the waist size, but skaters usually wear their skate pants lower on the hips.
To fix this problem, Thisissoul measures all skate pants by width, making it easier to find the right fit. Instead of relying on inconsistent waist sizes, skaters can now shop for skate pants based on their actual width, ensuring a more accurate fit.
Why measuring width matters
Because skate pants history spans several decades, sizing has changed over time. Vintage skate pants from brands like Roces might fit differently from modern designs. The length of skate pants is usually not a problem, as most skaters adjust them themselves.
To measure width accurately:
- Lay the skate pants flat.
- Stretch the waistband slightly.
- Measure the top width of the pants.
By focusing on width rather than waist size, Thisissoul’s online store allows skaters to filter their selection and find the perfect pair of skate pants without guessing.
Adjusting your skate pants
One of the best things about skate pants is that they can be easily customized. Many skaters cut their skate pants to the perfect length for better movement.
To shorten your skate pants:
- Use a measuring tape and mark the desired length.
- Cut along the line with sharp scissors.
- If needed, re-stitch the hem or leave it raw for a frayed look.
The best way to buy skate pants
Since every pair of skate pants fits differently, the best way to find the right size is to try them on in-store. Thisissoul’s Amsterdam shop gives skaters the chance to test different styles and fits before buying.
For online shoppers, the best way to find the right skate pants is to measure an existing pair and use Thisissoul’s width filter for the most accurate match.
Conclusion: Skate pants history and sizing
Looking at skate pants history, it’s clear that the styles and sizing have evolved over time. Whether you’re searching for vintage Roces skate pants or modern custom-fit designs, the key to getting the right fit is measuring width instead of relying on traditional waist sizes. Trying on skate pants in-store is always the best option, but for online buyers, accurate measurements will ensure the best possible fit.