In-line skating. An observational study of protective equipment used by skaters.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the frequency and patterns of use of the various types of protective equipment by in-line skaters and to determine if use of protective equipment was associated with the age, sex, group composition, or expertise of the skater.


METHODS
A total of 1548 in-line skaters were observed during a 3-month period in Milwaukee, Wis. Identification and protective equipment data were recorded and analyzed by chi 2 tests with Pearson's correlation coefficient.


RESULTS
Overall, 491 skaters (31.7%) wore no protective gear. Wrist guards were worn by 999 skaters (64.5%). Helmets were worn by only 40 skaters (2.6%). Overall, adolescent males, children, and advanced skaters were the least likely to be observed wearing protective equipment.


CONCLUSIONS
Protective equipment is underused by many in-line skaters. Educating in-line skaters about the value of wearing protective equipment, as recommended by equipment manufacturers, may help reduce the severity or incidence of skating injuries.
Young
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Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.
Mark
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DH
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D017677:Age Distribution; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011481:Protective Clothing / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D017678:Sex Distribution; D012861:Skating