valjakolla

Valjakolla is a Finnish term that translates to "on the roller" or "with the roller." It most commonly refers to a type of roller skate, specifically those with wheels arranged in a single line, one behind the other. This design distinguishes them from quad skates, which have two wheels in front and two in back.

Inlining, also known as rollerblading, is the sport or recreational activity of gliding on skates with wheels arranged in a single line. This activity can be enjoyed on various surfaces, including smooth pavement, dedicated roller rinks, and sometimes even indoor flooring. The equipment used, valjakolla, allows for greater maneuverability and speed compared to quad skates, making them popular for sports like roller hockey, speed skating, and freestyle skating.

The term "valjakolla" can also be used in a more general sense to describe the act of using any type of roller, such as a steamroller used in construction for compacting surfaces. However, in common parlance, particularly among younger generations in Finland, it is overwhelmingly associated with the activity of inlining. The popularity of inlining has seen fluctuations over the years, but it remains a recognized form of recreation and sport globally.