Re: Inline/ice question about boots

"B Fuhrmann" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:

>"Lyle McDonald"  wrote ...
>> Was wondering if there are any boots currently made which can be used
>> for both in-line and long track ice? If so, what's
>> recommended/suggested? Or are long-track ice boots only made in a one
>> piece/blade attached?
>
>Check out the boots at www.bont.com

I'm currently skating on Bont Pyrotechnics.  The above website states,
"this versatile boot is suitable for inline or ice, long track or
short track."  I've used it for all three, with emphasis on short
track ice, and can attest to its versatility.  This boot can be
ordered custom or semi-custom, higher or lower cut, to suit a more
specific need if you really want to specialize.  But the stock model
is just fine for all around use, unless and until you move up to a
very high and fine level of performance or competition.

PS:  You've go to beware of the block placement on boots as you switch
from in-line to ice. My previous boot was Miller Short Track.  While
this is well made boot and is great for in-line, the block placement
shifted to the rear of the boot is specific to in-line, meaning that
my old Mogema frame for 80 mm wheels would be centered using the
middle slots.  However, most high end ice blades e.g. (Maple and
Pennington) have little or no for/aft adjustability, making the Miller
boot unsuitable for ice applications because you can't center the
blade.  The Pyrotechnics, OTOH, has blocks placed shifted more toward
the center, making is suitable for ice-blades but potentially not
suitable for any in-line frame which does not have multiple mounting
slots.  When I up-grade next year to an in-line frame for 84 mm
wheels, I will be sure to get one with more than one mounting slot to
make sure I can center my frame on the Pyros.
--dt