FLAT SET UP:

Most skates are sold with what we call a 'flat' setup, means: all wheels are the same size

This is a stable setup that suits most beginners and occasional rec skaters, providing good balance, speed stability, but limited manoeuvrability. This setup is easiest to control when practicing slides.

If you want more then you'll have to change some or all your wheels to different sizes!

HI-LO SET UP:

Benefits/Downsides: still quite good speed capabilities and speed stability (you sacrifice a tad at the top end), rotates a bit better. This position shifts your weight forwards, keeping you in a perpetual sprint position. This can be very comfortable, and can also be very helpful if you have problems with your weight shifting backwards resulting in backwards falls. This setup works well for slides too, and allows extending the useful life of your wheels.

FULL ROCKER:

This setup mimics an Ice Skate blade: You're on 2 wheels at all times!

This setup is mainly used for playing hockey, or for slalom; skating at higher speeds and slides become very hard to control with this set up. Frequently the wheel sizes are smaller than indicated here (I sometimes use 50-60-60-50) which provides a little bit more control (and less speed, which is not an issue here).

FRONT ROCKER:

Benefits/Downsides: you're rolling on either 3 or 2 wheels. This means that you have less directional stability at speed, a lower tolerance for speed wobble, but a better response to rotational movement. A very good trade-off if you, for example, would like to use the same setup for street and hockey skating.

FULL HI-LO ROCKER:

Benefits/Downsides: Very similar to the full rocker above, but with your weight more forwards, which brings your ankles and knees into a more natural position and make intricate footwork easier. This is my preferred setup for slalom/freestyle, and it allows extended wheel use.