Tri-Di vs Vanguard Chassis

[passmaster16 0]

I'm currently skating on an older pair of Rbk 5ks, but starting to think about getting a new pair of skates. I was wondering how much difference it would be if I switched from Rbk Tri-Di (72-76-76-80) to Mission Vanguard (76-76-80-80)? Would I lose agility with going to the Vanguard over the Tri-Di? I assumed that the center of gravity would be lower on Tri-Di, correct? My game is not really based around speed. I'd prefer to have good maneuverability and balance so I was wondering if the Vanguard would be any better, worse, or about the same in that regard. One thing I notice with my 5ks is that all four wheels don't always touch but I hear with the Vanguard they do. I was wondering what type of impact, if any, this would have on my performance. Just in case it matters, I'm 5'10" and weigh 175 lbs. I play on an indoor sport court surface. Any insights would be great.

Thanks!

[sharks25 9]

I made the switch and loved it. It's hard to explain, but it just made everything easier. Stops and quick starts were do much smoother and better balanced. I wouldn't think twice about making the switch if I were you, esoecislly if you are getting a better boot too.

[Vet88 674]

I've skated on both over the last few years - 9ks, 11ks, various Boss's and X60's. At the end of the day pick the boot that best fits the shape of your foot, for me it was Rbk. However I'd have no issues wearing a Rbk boot fitted with a vanguard chassis.

My son was a mission fan (now X60) but had to skate in my 11k's last year when he left his SE's behind for a tournament, by the end of the tournament he found very little difference between the two and on return he swapped boots regularly for a while before he settled back on the missions (better ankle fit for him).

At the end of the day the boot is more important than the chassis (until you start to get into Sprung territory when in this case the chassis does make a big difference).

[henryb 4]

Agreed, if you really want improved turning ability, they only solution is the Sprung chassis. There are many benefits to the Sprung set up, but improved turning radius and ability to maintain speed in sharp corners is one it's better features.

[pby 0]

Personally found the tri-di to be more agile than the vanguard but the vanguard offered better stability. Between those two chassis, I personally would go with the vanguard because its an allrounder chassis and they're more durable than the tri-di.

+1 for sprungs if you don't skate like a rhino, the agility is unmatched.