Hey Inlinex fam! Your resident skate enthusiast here, and today we're strapping into a pair of aggressive skates that have been making serious waves in the scene: the USD Sway Carlos Bernal II Aggressive Skates. Forget just reading a product description; we're going to dig into what makes these skates tick, who they're for, and whether they deserve a spot in your quiver.
The USD Sway platform started life as a solid, dependable entry-level option, but it has truly evolved into something much more. The Carlos Bernal II Pro model isn't just an upgrade; it's a testament to how a great foundation, combined with premium components and skater-driven feedback, can create a truly exceptional skate. It's a skate that balances robust durability with high-performance features, all without demanding a pro-level price tag. Let's break it down.
Built Like a Tank, Grinds Like a Dream: The USD Sway Bernal II's Strengths
From the moment you unbox these, you'll feel the quality. Skaters often describe the Sway as a "throne-like hard boot," and that's no exaggeration. This construction speaks volumes about its durability, ensuring these skates can take a beating whether you're sessioning ledges, rails, or hitting the skate park hard.
Unrivalled Grinding Performance
This is where the Bernal II truly shines. The upgraded soulplate is a major highlight, consistently praised by users for its ability to deliver smooth, controlled slides across a variety of surfaces. Paired with the Kizer Fluid IV anti-rocker frame, which features a new shape and groove, you're looking at a setup designed for optimal grinding. Many skaters find grinds significantly easier on the Sways, largely due to those generously sized soul plates. If you're looking to lock into royales, frontsides, or even just hone your basic grinds, these skates offer an incredibly forgiving and responsive platform.
Comfort That Lasts
Aggressive skates aren't always synonymous with comfort, but the Bernal II makes a strong case. The inclusion of the MYFIT 2nd Skin dual-fit liner is a game-changer. It's not just comfortable out of the box; it's removable and heat-moldable, allowing for a truly personalized fit. This liner, combined with the Sway's generally wider fit, has been a major plus for many skaters who often struggle with narrower aggressive boots.
Premium Components, Exceptional Value
What sets the Bernal II apart, especially at its price point, is the quality of its components. You're not getting a stripped-down package here. These skates come fully loaded with:
- Pro USD 60mm 90A Ultra High Rebound (UHR) wheels: Fast, durable, and designed for aggressive skating.
- Kizer sliders: For that perfect anti-rocker setup, reducing wheel bite and enhancing grind space.
- Precision Wicked ABEC 9 bearings: Ensuring a smooth, fast roll right from the start.
The USD Sway line has always been known for its great price-to-performance ratio, and the Carlos Bernal II elevates this even further. You're getting a pro-level setup without the pro-level cost, making it an incredibly attractive option for both newcomers and seasoned veterans.
The Nitty-Gritty: Honest Considerations and Sizing Wisdom
No skate is perfect for everyone, and it's important to have an honest look at potential quirks. The USD Sway Carlos Bernal II is fantastic, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
Sizing: The Golden Rule is Snug!
This is perhaps the most crucial point for any potential Sway owner. While the MYFIT 2nd Skin liner is dual-fit (meaning removing the insole can provide the larger size within a range, e.g., an EU 41-42 shell can fit an EU 42 foot by removing the insole), the skates are known to fit quite snugly initially. A common pitfall, particularly with older Sway models or if you pick the wrong size, is that the skates can feel too big after the liner breaks in and "packs out."
Our advice: When you first try them on, they should feel very snug – almost uncomfortably so. Your toes should lightly brush the end. Do not size up to achieve immediate comfort, as the liner will compress over time, giving you more room. If they feel comfortable and roomy out of the box, they will likely become too loose after a few sessions, compromising control and responsiveness. Trying to compensate for a larger shell with a thicker aftermarket liner is generally not recommended for optimal performance.
Forward Flex: A Nuanced Improvement
Some general USD Sway models have historically been associated with a "notorious forward flex issue" or perceived as having too much flex. However, USD has listened! The Carlos Bernal II Pro Skate specifically addresses this with "extra fabric on the dorsum (top part of the foot)," making it slightly stiffer in forward flex compared to previous iterations. While it's a "nuanced difference" rather than a complete overhaul, it's a welcome improvement for skaters looking for a bit more ankle support and responsiveness.
"Cheap" Feel? Not This One.
We've seen some older, isolated comments about general USD Sways feeling "cheap" or "generic." It's important to note that these comments often predate the Bernal II's upgrades. With its premium components, robust construction, and improved liner, the Carlos Bernal II Pro model has largely shed any such perception. It feels like a solid, well-thought-out aggressive skate that punches well above its weight class.
Who Should Buy the USD Sway Carlos Bernal II?
This skate is truly versatile, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of aggressive skaters:
- Beginners to Intermediate Aggressive Skaters: If you're just getting into aggressive skating or looking to upgrade from a basic setup, the Bernal II offers an incredible blend of durability, performance, and value that will help you progress quickly.
- Skaters Who Prioritize Grinding: The large, smooth soul plates and Kizer Fluid IV frames are a dream come true for grinding enthusiasts.
- Those Seeking Comfort in a Hard Boot: The MYFIT 2nd Skin liner and wider fit are a big plus for skaters who find other aggressive boots too narrow or uncomfortable.
- Budget-Conscious Skaters: You get a lot of bang for your buck here, with premium components usually found on much more expensive skates.
- Skaters Looking for a Reliable, Durable Setup: These are built to last and withstand the rigours of aggressive street and park skating.
Who Might Want to Consider Alternatives?
- Skaters with Very Narrow Feet: While the wider fit is a pro for many, if you have exceptionally narrow feet, you might find them a bit too roomy even with the snug sizing advice.
- Skaters Who Demand the Stiffest Forward Flex: While improved, if you're coming from a super stiff, race-oriented boot and expect that level of rigidity, you might notice the nuanced flex.
- Extreme Weight-Weenies: While not excessively heavy, the "throne-like" construction means they aren't the absolute lightest aggressive skate on the market (e.g., compared to a USD Aeon).
Sway Bernal II vs. The Competition: A Quick Look
How does the Sway stack up against other popular aggressive skates?
- USD Aeon: Aeons are known for their unibody, one-piece construction, making them lighter and lower to the ground. However, they lack the UFS frame customisation of the Sway. If you want a modular setup and the ability to swap frames, the Sway is your pick. If you prefer a locked-in, super-low ride and don't care about frame swaps, the Aeon might appeal.
- Roces M12: A classic, the M12 offers a very slim, often tighter fit and a renowned responsiveness. The Sway provides a wider, more forgiving fit, which many skaters find more comfortable for longer sessions. If you have wider feet or prefer more padding, the Sway is likely more comfortable.
- Them Skates 909/305: Them Skates are highly regarded for their unique shell shape and often have a dedicated following. The Sway Bernal II offers competitive features and performance, particularly in grinding, at a potentially more accessible price point, especially considering the premium components included out of the box.
The Sway Bernal II carves out its niche by offering a fantastic blend of durability, comfort, grinding prowess, and UFS versatility, all wrapped up in an incredibly good value package.
Final Thoughts: A Grinding Machine for the Masses
The USD Sway Carlos Bernal II Aggressive Skates truly stand out as a top contender in the aggressive inline world. It's a skate that has evolved beyond its entry-level roots to become a serious performer, praised for its robust build, exceptional grinding capabilities, and comfortable MYFIT liner. If you're looking for a durable, high-performing aggressive skate that offers incredible value and helps you nail those grinds, this is definitely one to put at the top of your list.
Just remember our golden rule for sizing: think snug, not roomy, out of the box, and you'll be set for countless sessions of shredding!
Shop the USD Sway Carlos Bernal II Aggressive Skates at Inlinex
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