K2 Kinetic 80 vs Rollerblade Zetrablade - Best Beginner Inline Skate Review

[@tigheklory]

I bought the K2 Kinetic 80 and these skates were horrible, I kept rolling over the outside of the frame, I'm so mad that I bought this skate, it's trash not adjustable at all and the lack of the ankle ratchet buckle was a bag idea. Don't buy this skate

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Thank you for your comment!
These weren’t my favourite either, I ended up going with the zetrablade long term. Hope you find something better.

[@tigheklory]

@@TheLastHonestInfluencer I had Roller Blade Lightning II back in the 90s and the new lightning looks to be good. It's either that or the Twister.

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Nice, I hope you get some and have good skates again soon!

[@tigheklory]

@@TheLastHonestInfluencer I ended up buying the new Lightnings

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

@@tigheklory awesome! Those look sweet. I’ve never tried them please if you have time let me know your thoughts on them

[@BR-ur2gk]

Told me everything I was looking to find out, great review -you nailed it! I just ordered them - this is the most comprehensive review I found on the net, from a credible source

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Thank you!!!!

[@bladeworxaus]

Your comment on the Metal frame v Plastic needs qualification. It is a commonly held misconception and an error to imply that a metal frame is better than a plastic frame. A good plastic frame is infinitely better than a budget metal frame. Many generic cheap skate manufacturers exploit this misconception by putting cheap metal frames on their skates which will bend if the skater falls and the frame hits something - rendering the skate useless and irreparable. A good composite-reinforced plastic frame (which they are on quality brand-name skates) will usually flex and bounce off rather than bend or break. This is important for beginners' skates as falling is likely.
A good aluminum frame that has been cast, or even better - extruded, is necessary for superior strength on longer frames. The weight and foot size of an individual can also come into consideration. The stresses on the frame are greater with large individuals often requiring a larger size and (usually-but not always) a longer frame. But - again - the construction quality is the important issue.

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Very true! Great points. I’d take high quality plastic over low quality metal any day too. At the time I made this video I made a sweeping general statement that definitely needs to be elaborated on. Thank you!

[@NickBuitenhuis]

Thanks great review! I got back to skating after a 7-8 year break. I bought a set of K2 Kenitic 80 Pro's and they're comfortable and lightweight... It's great to be back at skating!

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Thank you for taking the time to comment!
Getting back into it is the best, that first skate of the year it's hard to stop grinning. Awesome those skates are comfortable, that makes skating so much fun. Enjoy!!

[@kipschumm1849]

I returned a pair of Macroblade 80s after realizing I would rather use urban than fitness skates due to preferred skating style and a lack of smooth trails where I live. I later picked up a pair of Kinetic 80s to use at rinks and such with family because they’re so comfortable, I can stand wearing them a lot longer than my hard boot skates

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Good to know about the kinetics! I agree, soft boots are so much more comfortable but they're pretty much only good for fitness style skating in long straight lines. Thank you for your comment!

[@jgrywacheski]

Just grabbed a pair of the of the Kinetic 80s for $65(on sale on the K2 site) and was concerned they would be really cheap. Haven't laced up in over 15 years but want to get back into it. Your review gives me more confidence these will be great to get back into it.

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

$65?! That's an incredible deal. The wheels alone are worth more than that! Enjoy!!!

[@kitgodsey]

Thanks for the review! Was a bit worried about buying a cheaper option but for just getting back into skating after more than a decade Im feeling better about this future purchase

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Personally I find them better than more expensive skates! One of those rare deals. I haven't had one comment from a single person saying they didn't like them. And if they were shitty I'd tell you! Enjoy!!!

[@CatzzMoney]

I haven’t skated over 20 years 😂

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

@@CatzzMoney best time to get back into it right meow 😸

[@CatzzSkatesFamily]

I got the Kinect 80, but in a different color. My plastic chassis still holds up. I’m more into fitness skating and own the following:
K2 Kinect
K2 Trio 100
K2 VO 2 S
Rollerblading helps me stay fit. I went from 230 to 218lbs. As of now, my favorite is the VO2 S 90.
If I were to rank from most comfortable to least.
1. VO2 S 90
2. Kinect 80
3. Trio 100
If I had to rank performance from most top to bottom:
1. VO2 S 90
2. Trio 100
3. Kinect 80
Good review.

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Thank you! That’s awesome, helps me stay fit too. Thank you for your comment!

[@jamiepersona]

Was looking for a casual pair to get me back into rollerblading and went with the K2 80's your right there decent thanks great review

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

They great for casual skating! Enjoy! Thank you for your comment

[@Ubylosthispants]

I bought the K2 FIT 80 ALU, and they fit better then any skates I've worn but I have weird ass flat hobbit feet, I was debating between these and the fit alu because of what you said on here about metal frames and I went with the fit alu. Thanks for all the information you put out!

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

That's awesome you were able to find a good pair that fit you! I hear you on the feet situation, I've got weird wide duck-like forefeet and it's a real pain finding boots that fit wide up front but narrow in the back. Thank you for taking the time to comment and I hope you get many comfortable and fun sessions in your new skates!!

[@chrisodle007]

I’m looking to get something similar Victor. Did you size up or find the fit true to normal shoe sizing ? Saw some reviews they were narrow which scared me because I’m close to having a wide foot

[@Ubylosthispants]

@@chrisodle007 you may want to size up or see if you can order a wide in the size you wear

[@JohnnyBlaze6954]

im looking for random rec skates as I usually skate in parks. I just dont want to use my skate park skates on normal roads and boardwalks.... Im about to pick these up new for $65.... I wasnt going to but your video convinced me! I can always swap in my abec7 bearings from my old wheels and buy new 80mm wheels if they wear super quick!

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Solid plan man, for $65 you can’t go wrong! Are they $65 new!?
Gnarly you’re into skate park skating. That shit is wild.

[@midcenturymatchamama9284]

Very informative, I’m still torn between the kinetic 80 and zetra, some reviewers mentioned a weird leg bowing with the kinetic 80s, have you experienced that? Like feet turning inwards? Rolling my ankles is my biggest fear and I like the extra stability both offer.

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Thanks bro! I didn’t find that, but it’s possible it’s got to do with the angle they attach the chassis at. Bowing legs is a bummer, will mess your knees up long term. I found both really good. I prefer the zetra as they are cheaper and basically the same

[@Ozymandeusx]

They have a great deal for me in Canada on the k2s right now down from $129.99 down to $65.99

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Really!! Where??

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

That's a great deal. But them. Just wheels from K2 are $100...

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

I want to buy some for $65.99 so I can take the wheels! Ha

[@Ozymandeusx]

@@TheLastHonestInfluencer Canada

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

@@Ozymandeusx bro i'm from Canada too, what store?! I'm snaggin as many pairs as possible for spare wheels ha ha!

[@anglerstube8021]

Am i too heavy or something?, I'm on day 3 and able to ride longer than day 1 but after about 10 minutes my arches start killing me. I bought the kinetic 80s to lose weight and be more fit but that pain is making it really hard, any advice?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

You're definitely not too heavy. They should be comfortable WAY longer than 10 mins. They're brand new? Do your toes touch the end of the skate boot?
Another thing is you may be tying them up way too tight.
Sometimes they need a bit of a break-in period and your feet get used to them...but excruciating pain after 10 mins tells me something is wrong with the skate boot setup for you.

[@Dedian_]

Man, I just spent 70$ to change my bearing and buy a new brake for my (very) old pair of K2 skates, and they still don't roll very well :(. This review convinced me that I should've bought a cheap new pair instead! 🤣

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

I know right?! I've spent $100 just on a set of wheels! Hard to justify when you can get a brand new comfy pair for nearly the same price with decent bearings even. Thank you so much for taking the time to comment, really appreciate it! Hope your old pair start rolling better

[@mediumniteetspiritualite]

Hi. What so you think for beginnings :
Rollerblade lightning 80, lightning 90 ?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

I’ve never tried those, but the spark 80 and macroblade 80 I tried were great

[@tjwelder4112]

Thank you thank you! Just saved me a headache!

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Happy to hear! Thank you for your comment!!

[@schoneknospe]

Hello Jamie, thank you for this very helpful video. I own a pair of Pro Fitness skates from Airwalk and I am very happy with them. The problem is, that I need a new brake block, but cannot find one for this brand. I don't want to buy new skates just because of the brake block. Do you maybe have an idea which brake block or a complete break would fit or what else could I try doing, so I don't need to buy a new pair of skates?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Hi Sandra! That's a tough one! I've not seen replacement parts for anything AirWalk in years. I'm pretty sure they were made by K2 but not 100% on that. What I would try is buy a K2 brake pad (they're pretty cheap) and I'd see if it would fit. If it didn't, I'd use an exacto knife and carve the rubber away in the places necessary until I made it fit! Ha ha. There is always a way. I think you'll have more luck trying to shape a rubber brake to fit in your original brake holder than trying to replace that piece. Hope that helps! Thank you for watching!

[@EsteesCreativeMemories]

I use to play roller hockey a bit, and went inline skating down a bridge. I haven’t skated since I was 17, I am almost 45. I went to a rink with my daughter and had a blast but the rental boots had me in so much pain. I am crazy like that, I don’t give up even in pain. Anyway, I tried some Zetrablades on in the store and they felt so good with the fit. But, I want something that will last but won’t break the bank. So I am looking on marketplace 😅. Can you change out the wheels on the Zetrablades? And any recommendations for a crazy Tomboy like myself?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Absolutely you can change the zetrablade wheels I highly recommend doing that and using the wheels they come with for shoulder season.
Sounds like you need something more exciting though, the macroblade 100 3WD is pretty sweet, just as comfortable and much more thrilling to skate on. I’ve had comments from people on here asking if they should buy them onsale for $150 so they do come down in price.
The ultimate fast exciting skate for me is the K2 V02 s100 but they a fricken expensive. Hope that helps and I hope you find an awesome pair of blades for a great deal!

[@justoneofthosedaves]

I just found your channel and based on your review I just placed the order for 'em... I hope you're right!

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Nice! Hope you like them too! If not please come back and share your experience. Some people do find they need to replace the cheap insoles with better ones thats about the only complaint I've heard. You can even just swap them out with ones from an old pair of running shoes (that's what I do after about 1000kms they get packed down easy). Enjoy!!

[@fernieu3537]

hello i skate maybe 4-6 times a week after working out and roller blade my K2 exos from my home where i have my little gym set up to the local park and do laps sometimes i take the trails that takes me to the other parks as they are all connected. sooo i rollerblade on all kinds of surfaces and i dont know how much i travel but i would say a decent 2-6 miles those days ! my wheel busted alll up yesterday so i went to academy and got the Zetrablades for $130 and im excited to use them today! in the future i will be interested in better skates! do you recommend anything good please? i would want to do at least 84 mm

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

That's sweet man, I love inline skating as a compliment to resistance training as well. How are the zetrablade treating you? I have those and like them pretty well. A step up for around the same price would be the macroblade 80. Hope that helps!

[@Yeehaw019]

Should heavier people (I'm 6ft, 230lb) use higher ABEC bearings in their wheels or would the standard ABEC 5 that comes with them suffice for a while ? 🤔

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Great question! I'm currently in the 220+ club, and in my experience the ABEC 5 work fine. That said, when I upgrade my skates to the ILQ9 classic plus (when it's time to clean them I just buy new ones) it makes skating so much more enjoyable. So to answer your question, the entry level do suffice for a while but it's definitely worth the money to upgrade when it's time to clean them imo. On that topic I do notice my wheels wear faster now that I'm a bit heftier as well. Hope that helps!

[@Yeehaw019]

@@TheLastHonestInfluencer Thank you I appreciate the knowledge ✨

[@OpenDoorYogaSLC]

Great video! This question has no relation to this particular content - hope that's OK! 😂 I'm still using my blades from when I was younger, and I'm noticing that the brake doesn't really work all that well. I've explored other ways to stop, but do you know whether those are typically replaceable?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Really happy you asked! Absolutely they're super easy to replace, at least from a mechanics standpoint. What brand/model are they? The only thing that might be tricky is finding a replacement pad that fits if they are an unusual model or brand. That being said, the rubber material is pretty easy to shape and shave to get them to fit. Usually they just slide into place and then are fastened tight with a little screw in the middle of the bottom. Hope that helps! Any other questions please feel free to ask!

[@michaelallen634]

Can confirm the zetrablade are solid

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Thank you!

[@karenthompson3488]

It's a hard decision whether to get the eco picked entry model or the most expensive ones. Like, how am I supposed to know if I will use them every day. Of course I would like to

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

When In doubt start out with the zetrablade or these kinetic 80's would be my advice. It doesn't hurt to have a pair of solid 80mm in skates in your collection if you start skating daily. When you start skating daily you will want multiple comfy pairs! I'd get these, start skating and if you love it I'd look to a pair of 100mm 3WD's next. Hope that helps!

[@chrisodle007]

Need help- I’m between k2 fit 80 boa $100 and mens zetrablade $139. Also should I size up in either ?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

That’s a great price for a fit 80 boa. They are both quality skates but I think for those prices the fit 80 boa is a better deal. K2 is so random with sizing…it’s kind of a crap shoot depending on the model year. Rollerblade is super consistent to US shoe size in zetrablade and macro blade

[@CatzzMoney]

K2 Kinetic 80 looks great and considering buying a pair. I wear size size 12 for Nike shoes and size 13 for UnderAmour shoes. What size would fit me best for K2?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

K2 is a crap shoot for fitment. If you can’t try them on in a store I highly advise you not to buy them. I have a $600 pair of k2 mod 110 I can’t wear OR return. Some k2 fit too big. Some too small. Many many many comments from people saying the same thing.

[@CatzzMoney]

Thanks man. This is good feedback. If Dick’s sporting goods sells these, I will try out K2 kinetic 80.
Also, when the wheels are worn out, what replacements do you recommend?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

@@CatzzMoney k2, power slide and endless replacement wheels have all worked extremely well for me. I don’t pay attention to anything other than the price and the wheels hardness (82a-84a). I buy the cheapest wheels from any of those three places at that hardness and have been happy every single time. I always use new bearings as well, ILQ-9 classic plus or pro. Hope that helps!

[@CatzzMoney]

@@TheLastHonestInfluencer Between yesterday and today, I did some research on inline skating, but couldn't find any full reviews. Amazon has reviews from users, but was in a form of comments. The official K2 channel had short clips, but didn't provide any insights.
Out of all the videos I've watch, you covered couple of few videos with full depth reviews on K2 Kinetic 80, Zetrablade and Macro Blade 80. Appreciate the help!

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

@@CatzzMoney love hearing that and happy to hear it helped! That’s why I made them, I had the same damn problem. Wasted a lot of money on skates figuring this stuff out ha ha!
Thank you for your comments!!!

[@iceangel587]

How does roller derby compared to these two brands? I’ve had most of the brands but I just bought a roller derby. I’m not terribly convinced what do you think?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Honestly I’ve never skated a roller derby model so I really cant comment on how they compare, sorry!

[@nickmiller4564]

Man that sounds really comfortable

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Just facts man! Was pretty surprised to be honest

[@yoshigolfer1512]

the upper rachet, are we supposed to keep them bit loose to accommodate knee bending?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Great question! Personally I find there is a delicate balance on the upper ratchet between accommodating knee bending and ankle stability. I think it all depends on how strong and flexible you are and on the angle of the skate boot. Some pairs I have mine hardly done up, others I have to crank it right tight. I think whatever feels most natural for you is best. Bit of an ambiguous answer but I hope that helps!

[@yoshigolfer1512]

@@TheLastHonestInfluencer thanx for reply…I will try various settings and feel it.

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

@@yoshigolfer1512 happy to help! It’s definitely worth experimenting and getting it dialled in. I’ve found when I don’t have it done up properly it can cause shin splints and ankle tendinitis (when you skate long every day). Let me know if you have any other questions! Good luck!!

[@pthreehundredsixtyfive9264]

Can you rocker these? I’m better than a beginner…maybe advanced intermediate overall. Would I miss not being able to try rocker set up?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Not mechanically but you could rocker them by using 76mm wheels on the outside position and keep the 80's center. I did that for a short while but stopped the practice as I started skating more for long distance. It depends what kind of skating you want to do. If you're having fun in parking lots or skate parks the rocker is a must. If you're going cruising (my opinion is) you won't miss it at all.

[@JesusChrist_IsTruth-LoveForALL]

Hey Brotha! So, im debating tonight that I screwed up on my purchase. I had some really OLD rollerblade Evo 08 ALU and got hack into skating after them sitting for Yeaaaars. They were really comfortable and rolled great, smooth, and nice soft-ish absorbing wheels. Well a couple days later the bottoms started cracking out/off and then the clicky retention strap snapped off. I guess the plastic was iust worn out, probably from all these years sitting and heat. I was looking at the macro blade / zetra blade (dick's only oakce they and em) and then the K2 they gave at REI currently. Thinking they were toiuch, I went to Big 5 and got the Roller Derby Aerio Q-60 thinking they seemed good enough. Damn was i wrong, they suck comoared ti the old Rollerblades EVO 08. The wheels are hard, the bearings sucks, they arent a comfortable boot and cabt get them as tight as I want them, and i just got back from an hour test run, so i can't return them now 🤬😤😮‍💨🥺 i mean they are still brand new, maybe need breaking in? I doubt it though. Have you heard about these? If only i would have known they sucked this much. Do you think upgrading the wheels and vearing would fix it? Provably an all around sucky skate. I want a good COMFORTABLE boot and bearings and wheels that roll smooth and soft, i should of spent ht more money, but really thought those Roller derby Aerio q60 were decent. Now im debating on the zetablade I can get for $140 or macro vlade for $190 or K2 80 BOA for $180. Do you think the zetrabaldes are more than enough for good comfort, and quality wheels/bearings for fitness crusing in neighborhoos etc? Or should i got macro blade or K2. Roller blade also has a $99 advantage pro XT but i dont want to go too cheap and gave them suck like these roller derby aerio q60 i got for like 70$. Any advice on what would be moe than enough for my cruising-fitness needs. Also, if your skate comes with 80mm wheels do they have room for upgrading to bogger wheels, or you gotta atick the atock wheel sizes? THANKS for th videos!

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Greeting! I’ve never heard of those roller derby model you’ve mentioned. Based on what you’re telling me I think the zetrablade would be good for you. I found them to be comfortable and I only have to replace the wheels once every 1500 km providing i rotate them.
You can’t upgrade them to larger wheels, though. I have found my macro blade 100 3wd were upgradeable to 110 mm wheels however I would stick to 80 mm or 100 mm based on what you’re telling me your needs are. Hope that helps!
The macroblade, 80 or also sweet skates. The only model I’ve tried from K2 that I like is the VO2 model.

[@JesusChrist_IsTruth-LoveForALL]

@@TheLastHonestInfluencer thanks so much for your input and suggestions! 👍

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

@@JesusChrist_IsTruth-LoveForALL anytime! Hope it helps!! Any other questions feel free to ask anytime. Happy skating friend

[@iainlee4274]

Before one rides his brand new skates, should he loctite the wheel bolts?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Almost all new skates come with thread locker already applied. I'd remove a screw and look for the blue on it first. Too much and they're really sticky. Its always a good idea to use a thread locking compound if not, but do so very lightly. Hope that helps!

[@Keep_It_Real_Ministry]

Ive been itching to skate.....great video....btw are those Zetralabes by Rollerblade?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Itching to skate here too, been taking time off to heal a knee. Can’t wait to get back out there.
Thank you! Rollerblade makes them, they’re decent skates even though they are really cheap!

[@conan8708]

Does the kinetic 80 and or zetrablade come with short axle? For after break removal?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

I’m not sure, I always leave the brake on

[@vanessapruski9235]

Can you recommend the K2 Alexis 80 Pro or the the Rollerblade Sirio 84?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Hi Vanessa those are both excellent entry level fitness skates. While I haven't personally tried those models, they are almost identical to the other models in that class offered by those manufacturers. Are you ordering them online or can you try them on in a store?

[@vanessapruski9235]

@@TheLastHonestInfluencer hey there, Plan was to order them online. But I’ve read a review on the K2Alexis on Amazon, where someone complained that the wheels aren’t centered under the boot. And word about the Rollerblade Sirio is that the ankle support is crap. So I wondered if you may have comparison to the ones you reviewed because of the similarities. Thanks for the fast reply :)

[@tarantulatina2990]

I'm classified as a recreational human

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Nice

[@culstrate3460]

Any recommendations for a hard boot around $100-$150?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

I honestly can't give you a good recommendation as I haven't skated any hard boots in that price range for longer than a few kilometers. Hard boots don't really work well for long distance/fitness skating in my experience. Hope that helps a little bit!

[@culstrate3460]

@@TheLastHonestInfluencer thanks dude, I've decided to go with the k2 80s as i didn't take into consideration that hard boots wouldn't be great for long rides around the neighborhood lol

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

@@culstrate3460 excellent choice man. Yeah, for long fitness cruising soft boots are the way to go for sure! Enjoy!!

[@jasminescookingpassion]

very beautiful sharing

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Thank you Jasmine!

[@Acidawn]

my dog thinks jesus rollerbladed to pontius pilots house

[@ItzAceGamez]

Just bought a pair of macroblade 80s for recreational skating on paved bike trails. Naybe i got the wrong size, but, the macros arent as comfortable as ive been hearing. 🫤

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

That’s unusual! What is uncomfortable about them?

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Could be they’re too small or it could be the shape just doesn’t fit your foot it happens

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

For example the maxxum edge by rollerblade feel like torture devices on me…and some people say they are comfortable. I can’t see any possible way…

[@ItzAceGamez]

@The Last Honest Influencer I'm a size 8-8.5 and bought a size 9 I'm very skinny and it feels like my ankles and heels move around a bit, and my toes have about a half inch gap in front. They are as tight as I could get them too. I tried on some size 8 zetrablades, and I felt much more stable. I'm not sure if it's just this model, or the sizing is wrong for me. They didn't have size 8 macroblades in stock for me to compare to. I'm thinking of returning these and getting the zetrablades and saving my money until I learn to skate fluently. Thoughts? I live your content btw. Very helpful

[@TheLastHonestInfluencer]

Return them for sure. They should fit and feel like running shoes don’t settle for anything less. I think your plan to get zetrablades that feel stable is way better especially if you’re learning. Thank you for saying that about the videos much appreciated! Just trying to help people save time and money I wasted a lot making all these mistakes!