What Are Spacers for Inline Skates?

Inline skate wheel spacers are small components placed between the two bearings in each wheel of your inline skates. They come in different sizes (6 mm or 8 mm), so make sure you know which spacers your wheels require before purchasing new ones. This information is usually indicated on the wheel or your old spacer.

Having quality spacers for inline skates ensures that your bearings are held securely in place and that your wheels spin freely. The spacers help reduce the load on the bearings and minimize friction. They are typically made from metal or plastic, although metal spacers, often aluminum, are more common due to their durability.

Choosing the Right Inline Skate Spacers

There are two types of spacers to choose from: 6 mm or 8 mm. This measurement refers to the axle diameter, so the size you need depends on your axle size. A 6 mm spacer, also known as a long sleeve spacer, fits a 6 mm axle. Similarly, an 8 mm spacer, also called a floating spacer, fits an 8 mm axle. For more information on the differences between the two types of spacers, check out our Spacers Guide.

If you’re considering getting new spacers, you might also want to think about upgrading your Bearings for an optimal skating experience.