As with skateboards, geometry is important for ensuring your skates perform the way they are supposed to. If you are looking to buy cushions, check out our compatibility finder, since most modern skates are in our system. We highly recommend reading the TKP (Traditional Kingpin) section of our geometry article, since the information there applies to skates. This page is intended to supply additional information that applies only to skates.
(Photo of a plate here).
The height of your plate side cushion determines the geometry of your trucks, and shouldn't be altered unless you are using a skate block. If you are using a skate block, the easiest method for getting the correct heights is to leave us a comment on your order. Since skate blocks are effectively raising the height of your plate side washer, we supply one step shorter height cushions to compensate (for example: if you are riding with Powerdyne Reactors, which take a 0.55" barrel plate side, you'd need 0.5" Barrels). We are currently the only company that offers shorter cushions in every durometer, so you don't have to sacrifice performance to use a skate block.
The road side cushion can be customized based on kingpin length. Our database has been amassed over four years of fixing people's skates at RollerCon and from speaking with shops. However, occasionally we come across skates with non-standard kingpin lengths. If you cannot tighten your kingpin nut with what you received, you have a shorter than normal kingpin, and we will send you replacement parts.
If you have vintage skates, please measure your kingpin diameter before ordering. Our cushions are designed for standard kingpins, which are 3/8" in diameter. In some cases we have the ability to adapt our cushions for larger kingpins, but in others that isn't possible. If your plates are not listed in our compatibility list, please contact us for assistance.
(Photo of adjustable pivot nose)
Some high end skates have the ability to adjust the pivot nose. RipTide advises against adjustable pivot noses, since it puts the performance of the skate on the user rather than on the company designing them. However, if you have an adjustable nose, it is important to check that your pivot nose is engaged with the pivot cup. You can do this by pressing down on your hanger. If it jolts forward, your nose is not engaged and needs to be lengthened using a wrench. If your pivot nose is too long, your hanger will not be sitting parallel to the plate even with the correct height cushions.