K2 Skate introduced its new Lifestyle Series of inline skates to bridge the gap between fitness-oriented and aggressive performance skaters. Blending together approachable skate performance with premium features and detail, the Midtown and Uptown Lifestyle skates cater to a wide range of needs.
K2 said in years past customers had to decide what type of skater they were, before investing enough time into the activity. Skaters either leaned towards fitness and cross-training, with a focus on efficiency and speed to complement their biking and running regiments; or towards aggressive skates which focus on maximizing performance in the skate park and urban settings. The difference between these two demographics inspired K2 to create the Lifestyle Series, which blends the extra support and maneuverability required for aggressive skating with the high-performance capabilities of fitness skates, thus attracting a variety of experience levels and skaters.
The first in the series is the Midtown, $260, available in two distinct colors. Aimed at beginner skaters looking to enter the sport as well as seasoned skaters looking for an approachable model, Midtown product features:
- Free 247 Frame
- Rockered-Optional Frame
- 80mm Wheels
- Velcro Cuff Closure
- ABEC 5 Bearings
Uptown
The flagship of the Lifestyle Series is the Uptown, $300, built around a rich black leather upper reinforced with a ratchet buckle cuff closure for increased performance. The Uptown has a shorter 243mm frame for maneuverability for high-speed urban skating. In addition, the skate features subtle glow-in-the-dark accents to the upper and laces, providing some enhanced pop during night skating sessions. Uptown components include:
- Glow in the Dark Features
- Free 243 Frame
- Rockered-Optional Frame
- 80mm Wheels
- Ratchet Buckle Cuff Closure
- Stiffer Upper
- Shock-Absorbing Footbed
- Detached Brake Provided
- ILQ-7 Bearings
“Our customers genuinely enjoy being outside and are looking for products that complement their lifestyle and thirst for fun,” said Chris McCullough, global brand director for K2 Outdoor. “To us, these are quintessential K2 lifestyle customers, and we’re proud to introduce a new series of skates that will resonate with them both from a visual and performance perspective.”
The complete K2 Lifestyle Series is available this holiday season with planned consumer launch activities to kick off in November.
