Pablo's Skate Build Diary: Nike Flexlite 5 Conversion on Sure-Grip Avenger Plates

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Another rare pair of Nike ice hockey boots given a completely new purpose in the Pabloskates workshop. For this build, we started with a pair of Nike Flexlite 5 boots in exceptional condition and converted them into a custom pair of quad roller skates using Sure-Grip Avenger plates.

The Rare Nike Flexlite 5 Boot

The Nike Flexlite range has become something of a favourite amongst roller skaters, and it's easy to see why. Produced during the era before Bauer acquired the Nike hockey brand, these boots combine classic styling with a comfortable, supportive fit that lends itself particularly well to quad skating.

The Flexlite 5 is a model that is becoming increasingly difficult to find, especially in such well-preserved condition. While many surviving pairs show the signs of years of hard use on the ice, this particular pair arrived in remarkably clean condition, making it an ideal candidate for conversion.

Like many older hockey boots, the Flexlite 5 offers a little more natural flex than many of today's ultra-stiff composite boots. That extra flexibility can make them feel more forgiving and comfortable for recreational, rhythm and artistic skating, while still providing plenty of support. As with every conversion, the condition of the boot, sole and heel was carefully assessed before any work began to ensure it was suitable for mounting.

Converting the Nike Flexlite 5 to Quad Roller Skates

The original blade holders were carefully removed before the soles were cleaned and prepared for their new roller skate plates. Accurate plate positioning is one of the most important stages of any conversion. The centre lines of the boots were marked before the mounting position was carefully planned to ensure the skates would perform as well as they looked.

At Pabloskates, every pair is individually assessed rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. Boot size, axle position, intended skating style and overall balance are all considered before the first hole is drilled. Once the positioning had been finalised, the Sure-Grip Avenger plates were securely mounted before the remainder of the build was completed.

Sure-Grip Avenger Plates

For this build, the customer chose the Sure-Grip Avenger, one of the most distinctive plates available thanks to its 45-degree kingpin geometry. The Avenger is renowned for its responsiveness, allowing skaters to generate deeper edges and tighter turns than many traditional 10-degree plates.

Its highly manoeuvrable nature makes it a popular choice amongst rhythm, artistic and dance skaters, while also appealing to experienced recreational skaters looking for a lively, responsive setup. Combined with the classic Nike Flexlite 5 boots, the finished skate offers both performance and timeless styling.

The Finished Nike Flexlite 5 Quad Conversion

The finished result is another increasingly rare pair of Nike hockey boots transformed into a unique set of custom quad roller skates. The clean white Flexlite 5 boots pair beautifully with the Sure-Grip Avenger plates, creating a skate that looks every bit as impressive as it performs.

As more vintage Nike hockey boots disappear from circulation each year, it's always satisfying to preserve another pair by giving them an entirely new purpose. Rather than sitting unused in storage, these Flexlite 5s are ready for many more years of life on eight wheels.

Every skate conversion completed at Pabloskates is individually assessed and precision-mounted by hand in our Derby workshop.

If you have a pair of ice hockey boots you'd like converting to quad roller skates, take a look at our skate conversion and plate mounting services or get in touch to discuss your build.

Browse our latest converted skates or get in touch to discuss your dream setup only at Pabloskates.com.