Differences Between Hi-Lo

[Yekcoh]

I'm confused with all the different brands of Hi-Lo frames coming out claiming that their's have the best performance. Obviously am no expert in this, cuz they all just look the same to me. Exactly what are the different versions of Hi-Lo's in the market? What's the best? Labeda? Red Star? Mission?

If anybody can explain it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!!

P.S. Aviod biased opinions please. Lets be objective here. =)

[MDE3]

Performance wise there may not be too much difference but there is some difference in durability, ease of wheel removal and installation, and precision of manufacturing. Generally Labeda frames, Red Star frames have been good. Most of the frames are tough enough but there is some difference in weight. Not knocking Mission or Tours though (at least not the traditional hi-lo's). Also we (my son and I)like the 2 degree Nexed chassis from the "Stingers", but they may no longer be in production from what I understand - I believe they can still be purchased from existing inventory at Hockey Giant (Stingers anyway - dont know about just the frames). My son seems to have found a bit of extra speed from these chassis - but it's all very subjective.

I would stay away from any kind of "rocker" frames - most seem not to like them.

[missionhockey21]

I like the hi lo I got on the D1's, I've gotten very good performance out of them. I also have the Labeda sensor, and that acutally out performs the mission chassis in my opinion. My brother had a pair of nexed 2 degrees this summer and loved them, I've been curious to try a pair out because the people I know who have them love them.

[missionhockey21]

Man, the more I hear about the two degrees I want to try them out, I've heard from three different people just today talk about how great they are.

[MDE3]

Yes they seem to add grip, and turning flexibility - not sure just why but everyone I know who has skated the chassis seems to agree. Now that they're no longer being made - they may achieve "cult" status like a dead painter lol. Did not like either the 16 or the 8 degree myself, but I do know a few who like the 8's - dont know anyone who actually liked the 16's lol.

The stinger boots are stiff as carbon fibre boots tend to be - but I really didn't find them any worse than any of the other carbon fiber boots I have worn - ice or roller. Some of the younger skaters I know complained that they werent flexible enough - but part of that may just be lack of physical size and weight when pitted against a firm boot in the smaller sizes.

[rlrhky13]

Just have to make a quick point. I use the Rocker chasis and I actually like it.. It is slower than the Hi-Lo but as an ice hockey player also the transition is seamless. I can go from ice to roller and back and not have a problem adjusting to either.

[lobsterdmb]

well i am still a dinosaur using a flat chassis. The Labeda Extreme Edge actually, and I wouldn't give it up for anything. I absolutely love it.

Johnny

[Yekcoh]

Hmm ... Sounds very interesting ... so does anybody sell just the 2 degree HiLo frames then? =)

As for weight & durability are concerned, are they proportional to each other or inversely proportional? Meaning if its lighter does it mean that it's less durable and vice versa?

I'm actually thinking of getting myself a G90 or G80 now but am still keeping an open mind. Any constructive criticism would very much welcome =)

[missionhockey21]

I cant imagine skating inline with a flat chassis, I am just to adjusted with the hi-lo's.

[missionhockey21]

I have the labeda sensor that is on the G90 and find it to be an excellent chassis. My brother has the complete G90's and love them.