Roller Hockey Chassis: Hi-Lo System vs. Straight Wheel System

by Kris Weaver

When it comes to roller hockey, your skates are your foundation. The chassis—the frame that holds your wheels—plays a massive role in how you move, turn, and accelerate on the rink. Two of the most popular setups you’ll encounter are the Hi-Lo system and the straight wheel configurations, like all 80mm or all 76mm wheels. But what’s the difference, and how do you choose the best one for your game? At Madison Rec Hockey, we’re breaking it down for you with the benefits, pros, and cons of each setup so you can skate smarter and stronger.

What Is a Hi-Lo Chassis System?

The Hi-Lo system is a roller hockey innovation that mixes wheel sizes on the same chassis—typically two smaller wheels (like 76mm) in the front and two larger wheels (like 80mm) in the back. This design, popularized by brands like Bauer and Mission, aims to blend agility and speed into one package. The chassis is engineered so all four wheels touch the ground evenly, but the size difference shifts your stance slightly forward, mimicking the feel of ice hockey blades.

What Are Straight 80mm and 76mm Wheel Setups?

A straight wheel setup means all four wheels are the same size—either 80mm or 76mm—mounted on a flat chassis. This was the original standard for roller hockey skates before Hi-Lo came along. Straight 80mm setups prioritize speed and stability, while straight 76mm wheels lean toward maneuverability and control. Brands like Tour and Alkali often stick with straight configurations for their simplicity and versatility.

Hi-Lo System: Benefits, Pros, and Cons

Benefits of Hi-Lo:

Enhanced Agility: The smaller front wheels lower your center of gravity at the toe, making quick turns and stops feel snappier—perfect for dodging opponents or chasing the puck.
Speed Retention: Larger rear wheels roll farther per stride, helping you maintain momentum during long sprints down the rink.
Forward Lean: The Hi-Lo design naturally tilts you forward, putting you in an aggressive, sprint-ready stance that’s ideal for explosive acceleration.

Pros:

Combines the best of both worlds: agility from smaller wheels and speed from larger ones.
Mimics the rockered feel of ice skates, making it a favorite for players transitioning from ice to roller hockey.
Great for dynamic playstyles—think forwards or players who rely on quick cuts.

Cons:

Less stability at top speeds compared to a straight 80mm setup, as the mixed wheel sizes can feel less grounded during straight-line skating.
Wear patterns differ between front and back wheels, meaning you might need to replace them at different rates.
Not ideal for beginners who need maximum stability to build confidence.

Straight 80mm Wheels: Benefits, Pros, and Cons

Benefits of Straight 80mm:

Top-End Speed: Larger 80mm wheels cover more ground per rotation, giving you an edge in straight-line speed—perfect for chasing breakaways or powering through open rink space.
Stability: With all four wheels the same size, you get a consistent, flat contact patch with the surface, boosting balance during high-speed play.
Durability: Even wear across all wheels means they tend to last longer before needing replacement.

Pros:

Excellent for players focused on speed and long-distance skating, like defensemen covering the full rink.
Simpler maintenance since all wheels are identical—swap them out as a full set.
Offers a smooth, predictable ride that’s great for newer players finding their footing.

Cons:

Reduced maneuverability—turning and stopping can feel sluggish compared to Hi-Lo or smaller wheels.
Higher center of gravity makes it harder to lean into tight corners without extra effort.
Less aggressive stance, which might slow your initial burst off the line.

Straight 76mm Wheels: Benefits, Pros, and Cons

Benefits of Straight 76mm:

Maneuverability: Smaller 76mm wheels keep you closer to the ground, making sharp turns and quick pivots a breeze—ideal for tight, technical play.
Control: The lower profile enhances your ability to stop on a dime and shift directions fast, a must for goalies or players in crowded zones.
Lightweight Feel: Smaller wheels often mean a lighter skate, reducing fatigue during long games.

Pros:

Perfect for agile players who prioritize quick footwork over raw speed.
Easier to rocker (adjust wheel sizes for a curved feel) if you want a custom setup later.
Consistent wear across all wheels simplifies upkeep.

Cons:

Slower top speed compared to 80mm or Hi-Lo setups—less roll per stride means more effort to keep up on long stretches.
Less momentum retention, which can feel limiting during open-play sprints.
Might feel too low for taller players who prefer a higher stance.

Which Chassis Is Best for You?

Choosing between a Hi-Lo system, straight 80mm, or straight 76mm wheels depends on your playing style, position, and experience level:

Hi-Lo: Go for this if you’re a dynamic skater who values agility and acceleration—like a forward or transition player. It’s also a solid pick if you’re coming from ice hockey and want a familiar feel.
Straight 80mm: Pick this if speed and stability are your priorities—great for defensemen or players who love bombing down the rink with power.
Straight 76mm: Opt for this if you’re all about control and quick moves—ideal for goalies, smaller players, or anyone mastering tight turns.

Final Thoughts from Madison Rec Hockey

At Madison Rec Hockey, we know every player’s needs are different. The Hi-Lo chassis offers a hybrid approach that balances speed and agility, while straight 80mm wheels lean into speed and stability, and 76mm wheels excel in maneuverability. Test out a few setups if you can—borrow a teammate’s skates or hit up a local shop—to feel the difference for yourself. Whatever you choose, keep your wheels fresh and your game sharp. Ready to upgrade your roller hockey gear? Drop by madisonrechockey.com for more tips, guides, and rec league updates!