▶️ The Hand of Inline Skating is an illustration from the book that visualizes the inline skating world through different styles of skating.
The Palm represents the mainstream. This is the largest group of inline skaters worldwide. These skaters skate recreationally and are often not connected to a local or global scene. They skate for fun, movement, or nostalgia, without identifying with a specific style.
Even if we do not identify with the mainstream, the Palm holds the hand together. Most skaters start here. The mainstream financially sustains the industry, providing the volume that allows brands, shops, and events to exist and grow.
Culture is represented by the wrist. It connects the hand and allows energy to flow into it. Culture supports movement, inspiration, and continuity within inline skating, without forcing skaters into a fixed path.
When a skater moves from the Palm toward a Finger, they become more invested. A Finger represents a style that matches their personality, interests, and energy. This shift usually leads to stronger attachment, more commitment, and deeper involvement in the scene.
Skaters who identify with a Finger skate more, engage more, and spend more on average on skates, frames, wheels, and related products. This increased investment benefits the entire ecosystem. It allows brands to innovate, shops to specialize, and scenes to remain active and visible.
A strong inline skating scene depends on both the Palm and the Fingers. The mainstream brings people in. The Fingers create commitment. Together, they keep the hand alive.
Based on
@ivo.vegter concept
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