Objectives. This study examined risk factors for injury, injury prevalence,
safety gear use, and skating habits of adult recreational in-line skaters.
Methods. Randomly selected inline skaters in 6 major US cities were intervi
ewed.
Results. Only 6% of skaters consistently wore all 4 recommended types of sa
fety gear Skaters with greater skating experience were more likely to perfo
rm tricks, wear less safety gear; and sustain an injury.
Conclusions. More experienced adult recreational in-line skaters are at inc
reased risk for injury. Safety gear use is alarmingly low in adult recreati
onal in-line skaters, especially experienced skaters. Safe skating educatio
n programs should consider targeting this newly recognized at-risk skating
population.