skeeler

A skeeler is a person who participates in skeeleren, the activity or sport of rolling on wheels using skates. The term is used primarily in Dutch-speaking contexts and refers to both casual skaters and competitive athletes who use inline or traditional quad skates. Skeeleren encompasses various styles, from recreational skating to organized competition.

Origin and scope: Skeeleren originated in the Netherlands in the 19th century as a wheeled alternative to ice skating and as a form of transportation and sport. Over time it evolved into organized events held on roads, tracks, and velodromes. Today the term broadly covers inline speed skating, marathon skating, and related disciplines, with international participation and governing bodies that oversee competitions and rules.

Equipment and disciplines: Skeelers can use inline skates (multiple wheels in a line) or quad skates (two pairs of wheels side by side). Protective gear is commonly used, including helmets, wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads. Disciplines within skeeleren include speed skating on wheels, road and track racing, marathon events, artistic or freestyle skating, and recreational or fitness skating. Techniques emphasize balance, efficient stride, and turning control, with braking and cornering adapted to the chosen skate configuration.

See also: Inline speed skating, roller skating, and related international competitions.