Sliding down a slope at speeds of over 80 km/h with only a pair of skates has been given the name Inline Downhill. This is a form of line skating in which the love of challenge, risk and adventure are indispensable in all those wishing to practise this sport and become professional roller skaters.

 

Although its origins are not all that clear, it probably began in California in the 1980s as a result of groups of youths betting on who skate down the hills of San Francisco at the highest speed. This developed into a race where participants skated down mountain tops and slopes without brakes. However, the outcome was not too positive: two racers ended up in casualty after crashing into a car.

 

Expansion to other countries
Since then, the number of aficionados of this sport has increased rapidly, especially in the United States, from where it has spread to European countries such as Holland, France and Switzerland.

 

In Spain, it has so far not reached great numbers: hardly any competitions are organised and the aficionados have to make do with small-scale exhibitions around small circuits.

 

Necessary equipment
Standard line skates, on which to skate down at great speeds, are essential in this discipline. Protecting the body from possible knocks and falls is also vital: helmet, elbow and knee pads and other body protection mainly. The rest of the clothing should be comfortable and flexible.

 

Advice and precaution
Some skating experience is essential before practising Inline downhill. You must be very cautious as the braking capacity of a skater is very low, specifically three times less than a cyclist, meaning that the risk of falling increases as the slope becomes steeper. Being able to brake to perfection is vital to avoid spectacular accidents.

 

The most appropriate places for practising this sport have quickly moved from city streets to more rural areas, especially country or out-of-town roads where collisions with cars and pedestrians are less likely.

 

One of the most popular modalities within Inline Downhill is called Four X, an incredible spectacle where four skaters descend at the same time down a slope to see which one reaches the finishing line first.