Where's my parcel?
Many items are ordered from overseas suppliers and can take from 2-4 weeks (occasionally more) to arrive. Upon ordering you will be advised of expected delivery times. Please be patient.
I've sent you three emails and you haven't answered any of them. Why haven't you answered my email?
Please check your spam folder or adjust your spam filters. Emails often go unnoticed or automatically deleted if your email system suspects that an email is spam.
Where can you ship to?
At this stage Hot Quads Roller Skates only ships within Australia.
What size skates do I take?
Most skates are in US mens sizes (yes, even if they are pink!), so it's a good idea to find out what US Mens size foot you have. Generally, women would need to go down 1-2 sizes from their US ladies shoe size. For Sure-Grip an Rock skates you can refer to this chart (click image to enlarge):
For other brands of skate, if you are unsure of the size you need, measure your foot (whilst standing) and put the measurement in the "Instructions to merchant" section during checkout, or send an email to confirm. Chicago skates are similarly sized to the Sure-Grip chart, sometimes just slightly larger, and Pacer Skates tend to run about a size smaller in comparison.
What size bearings do I need, 7mm or 8mm?
The simplest way to tell if your bearings are 7mm or 8mm is to look at the bearing and see if it says 627 or 608 on the shield (the side). If it says 627 then it is 7mm, if it says 608, then it is 8mm.
If it doesn't have a number on it, then take a wheel off your skate and measure the diameter of the bearing's centre hole.
If for some reason you don't have a ruler at hand, get a standard lead pencil and see if if fits through the centre, If it does, you've got 8mm bearings, if not, you guessed it, 7mm.
Both 627 (standard 7mm) and 608 (standard 8mm) bearings fit into almost all types of skate wheel. Very occasionaly wheels are made that fit 688 "micro" bearings, which are 8mm with a smaller outer dimension, such as the Rock Speed Freaks wheels that come with some of the Rock Flames package skates (Tri-Colour and Silver flames only).
How many wheels/bearings/toe stops/other do I get in a set?
Unless otherwise stated in the product descriptions, wheels come in sets of eight, bearings come in sets of 16 (you need two bearings per wheel), and toe stops and toe guards come in pairs.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor wheels?
Outdoor wheels are made from a very soft urethane (usually lower than 88a hardness) designed to minimise bumps and vibrations from uneven surfaces. They also have a narrow profile and generally have rounded edges designed to lessen the impact of stones and other debris.
Indoor wheels are made from harder urethanes (usually higher than 88a hardness) designed for smooth, coated and well maintained surfaces.
Can I get my order shipped Express Post?
Yes, but Express Post shipping will cost extra. Generally, items that are in stock will be shipped the day after the order is received, items that are not in stock will take 2-3 weeks. Express shipping will take up to three days if outside of Australia Post's next day network. Please send an email if you wish to purchase an item shipped with express post.
What gear do I need to start Roller Derby?
The basics are a pair of skates, a helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads, knee pads and a mouth guard. Toe guards are also a good idea.
Do I need toe stops for Derby?
Not if you don't want to. Most people do, but some don't, it comes down to personal preference. If your skates have provision for toe-stops, and you decide to take them out, Fomac plugs or similar will fill up the hole, and prevent your plates from damaging the floor.
How do I stop my protective gear from getting stinky?
As soon as you get home, take all your gear out of your bag and let it air and dry out. Wash everything fairly often, starting BEFORE they start to smell.
What should I use to clean my wheels?
On the surface, usually a slightly damp cloth is enough, maybe with a small amount of dishwashing detergent. If you use detergent, make sure to clean any residue off with a damp cloth too. Chux Magic Erasers (sold in supermarkets) work quite well to clean off dirt, and don't require detergent. Ensure that you do not get any moisture near your bearings, as this can cause them to rust. Wipe any dirt that has collected on the bearings with a dry cloth. You do not need to use harsh chemicals to clean your wheels, because it is usually just dirt and dust you need to clean off. Some chemicals, like acetone and alcohol can have adverse effects on the urethane.