How does the current wheel differ from the previous generations?Updated 3 months ago

As a general rule, our wheels don't change significantly between generations—we try to maintain the same general size and design of past versions. The biggest differences are almost always in how the parts go together, as we perpetually try to simplify the assembly process as much as possible for our customers. Once a wheel of any generation has been put together, there isn't much to distinguish it from older or newer ones. Typically, if you already have a wheel and are wondering if you should get the newest generation, we'd say that it really isn't necessary unless your current wheel is wearing out (or if you just want a second wheel for the house). 

Here's a brief overview of the changes made to our wheels:

Gen 2: Improved rollerblade wheels for better longevity, improved molds for easier connections between parts.

Gen 3: Increased the size of side tracks and center tracks to reduce total number of parts needed by half.

Gen 4: Updated base. Switched from large rollerblade wheels (~96 mm) to much smaller squared-off wheels (~64 mm). Adjusted molds for easier connections between parts. Keyed side tracks and center tracks so that seams could not be accidentally aligned, ensuring improved stability of the wheel.

Gen 5: Increased size of inline wheels a bit (~75 mm) and switched back to rounded wheels. Removed thick plastic border from side tracks to increase running surface of wheel by two inches. Added clips to assembly process to make parts snap together more easily and make it easier to disassemble. 

Gen 6: Beefed up the base for increased durability. Improved molds for better connections between parts and reduce overall noise of wheel. Removed clips to speed up assembly process. Un-keyed parts so that center tracks can be inserted anywhere along side ring. Reduced center track size and added an additional one to ensure seams cannot line up with side track seams. Parts are slightly bigger than Gen 5, so wheel as a whole is slightly larger. 

Gen 7: Updated design of side tracks to eliminate extra holes left from the mold and applied a matte finish to the side wall for aesthetic purposes (the track that the inline wheel moves against is still shiny to ensure a smooth roll). Center tracks were updated to have a smooth, flat back, as opposed to previous designs with a crosshatching of exposed lines from the mold. The base went through a large redesign to improve stability and durability. Inline wheels were customized to match with an easier installation process. Felt traction pads and outer wheel pads were introduced. Gen 7 is only very slightly larger than Gen 6.