In-line skating. An observational study of protective equipment used by skaters
C. C. Young and D. H. Mark
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.
OBJECTIVES: To determine the frequency and patterns of use of the various
types of protective equipment by in-line skaters and to determine if use of
protective equipment was associated with the age, sex, group composition,
or expertise of the skater. DESIGN: A total of 1548 in-line skaters were
observed during a 3-month period in Milwaukee, Wis. Identification and
protective equipment data were recorded and analyzed by chi 2 tests with
Pearson's correlation coefficient. RESULTS: Overall, 491 skaters (31.7%)
wore no protective gear. Wrist guards were worn by 999 skaters (64.5%).
Helmets were worn by only 40 skaters (2.6%). Overall, adolescent males,
children, and advanced skaters were the least likely to be observed wearing
protective equipment. CONCLUSIONS: Protective equipment is underused by
many in-line skaters. Educating in-line skaters about the value of wearing
protective equipment, as recommended by equipment manufacturers, may help
reduce the severity or incidence of skating injuries.
