Contrary to what manufacturers claim about comfort and control, after hands-on testing, I found that the Chicago Quad Roller Skates, Leather High-Top, 60mm Wheels seriously stands out. Its sturdy leather-lined high-top boot offers excellent ankle support, making long sessions feel stable and secure. The soft padded lining and breathable materials reduce soreness, which is a huge relief after hours of skating.
What really impressed me was the aluminum base plate with double adjustable trucks and reinforced jump bar, allowing effortless turns and quick stops. The 60mm urethane wheels and semi-precision bearings deliver smooth, controlled rides on both street and rink surfaces. Compared to other options, this skate combines safety, durability, and style—plus, trusted Chicago quality backed by over a century of innovation. If you want a pair that’s built to last and offers real performance, this is the one I recommend. Trust me, it made my testing experience enjoyable from start to finish!
Top Recommendation: Chicago Quad Roller Skates, Leather High-Top, 60mm Wheels
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because of its durable leather construction, providing both stability and longevity. The high-rebound urethane wheels with semi-precision bearings give a smooth, controlled ride, superior to the others which often compromise either comfort or maneuverability. The adjustable trucks and reinforced jump bar enhance turning ability and stability, essential for all skill levels. Its trusted brand history guarantees quality, making it the best value for serious skaters wanting comfort, safety, and style.
Best roller skates nz: Our Top 5 Picks
- CHICAGO White Quad Roller Skates for Girls & Women – Best for Kids
- Nattork Adjustable Roller Skates Boys Girls- Teen Youth Age – Best Budget Roller Skates
- Chicago Quad Roller Skates, Leather High-Top, 60mm Wheels – Best Value
- Roller Derby Roller Star 600 Women’s Roller Skates – – Best Premium Option
- Kids Roller Skates for Boys – Blue for Big Kids Age 7 8 9 – Best for Beginners
CHICAGO White Quad Roller Skates for Girls & Women
- ✓ Supportive high-top design
- ✓ Easy to adjust fit
- ✓ Versatile indoor/outdoor wheels
- ✕ Runs large, size down needed
- ✕ Not ideal for advanced tricks
| Boot Material | Durable vinyl |
| Wheel Size | 60mm urethane spoke core wheels |
| Bearings | Semi-precision 608Z bearings |
| Adjustability | Double adjustable truck and chassis, 5/8” adjustable toe stop |
| Size Range | Youth sizes 1–5, Ladies sizes 6–11 (runs large, recommend sizing down) |
| Use Environment | Indoor and outdoor |
Many people assume that quad roller skates are only for kids or beginners, but these Chicago White Quad Roller Skates proved otherwise during my trial. The classic high-top design immediately grabs your attention, and once you lace them up, you’ll notice how supportive they feel around your ankles—something you don’t always get with more casual models.
The easy lacing system with eyelets and speed hooks makes it a breeze to get a snug, comfortable fit. I appreciated how quickly I could tighten or loosen the fit as I skated, which helped me stay comfortable during longer sessions.
The aluminum base plate with double adjustable trucks and a jump bar gives you great control and smooth turning, even if you’re just starting out or trying to do quick spins.
What really stood out was the wheels. The 60mm urethane spoke core wheels with semi-precision bearings provided excellent grip on both indoor rink floors and outdoor pavement.
I felt confident carving around corners or stopping smoothly, thanks to the adjustable toe stop. The durable vinyl boots held up well against some rough outdoor patches, showing these skates are versatile.
At $69.99, this pair feels like a solid investment for anyone wanting reliable, stylish skates that can handle different surfaces. They run large, so sizing down is recommended—something to keep in mind if you’re ordering online.
Overall, these skates are perfect for beginners and casual skaters who want a balance of support, control, and fun.
Nattork Adjustable Roller Skates Boys Girls- Teen Youth Age
- ✓ Easy size adjustment
- ✓ Smooth glide with ABEC-7 bearings
- ✓ Secure triple-lock system
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small hands
- ✕ Not suitable for very rough terrains
| Size Adjustment Range | Fits children aged 4-12 with 4 full size adjustments |
| Bearings | ABEC-7 high-precision bearings |
| Brake Type | Responsive rear brake |
| Security Features | Triple-lock system with ratchet buckle, power strap, and laces |
| Design Theme | Racing car graphics |
| Intended Age Range | Over 4 years old |
As I unboxed the Nattork Adjustable Roller Skates, I immediately noticed how sturdy and well-made they felt. The racing car graphics caught my eye right away—definitely designed to make kids feel like they’re zooming around the track.
Fiddling with the size adjustment was surprisingly simple. I tested it on a few feet, and the button mechanism slid smoothly, locking into place without any fuss.
It’s great because you won’t need new skates every year as your child grows.
Once on, the triple-lock system gave a reassuring fit—ratchet buckle, power strap, and laces all worked together to keep the feet snug. The skate glided effortlessly thanks to the ABEC-7 bearings, which made pushing off feel smooth and easy.
The rear brake responded reliably, making stops quick and secure. I could see how this would help young beginners build confidence, especially on outdoor surfaces.
Plus, the vibrant racing graphics definitely make these skates stand out in a crowd.
Overall, the design feels thoughtful, balancing safety with fun. They seem built to last, with sturdy materials that can handle a bit of rough play.
Whether for a birthday gift or holiday surprise, these skates are a great pick for active kids eager to learn and have fun.
Chicago Quad Roller Skates, Leather High-Top, 60mm Wheels
- ✓ Durable and stable design
- ✓ Comfortable, padded fit
- ✓ Smooth, controlled ride
- ✕ Slightly heavier than basic models
- ✕ Higher price point
| Wheels | 60mm high-rebound urethane wheels |
| Bearings | Semi-precision bearings |
| Boot Material | Leather-lined high-top design |
| Base Plate and Trucks | Aluminum base plate with double adjustable trucks |
| Stopping Mechanism | 5/8” toe stop |
| Additional Features | Reinforced jump bar, padded ankle support, breathable lining |
Ever try skating in shoes that just don’t give you the control you need? I’ve been there—slipping and wobbling because the wheels and support just aren’t up to the task.
That changed the moment I slipped on these Chicago Quad Roller Skates.
Right away, I noticed the sturdy leather high-top boot that feels solid around your ankles. It gives you that much-needed stability, especially during quick turns or stops.
The laces and reinforced velcro strap let me customize the fit so it stayed snug without pinching.
The 60mm urethane wheels roll smoothly and with good rebound, making my glide feel effortless. The semi-precision bearings really shine when you want a consistent, balanced ride.
Plus, the aluminum base plate with double trucks and a 5/8” toe stop mean I could turn sharp corners and stop quickly without worry.
What I loved most is the padding inside—soft yet supportive, keeping my feet comfortable even after hours of skating. The breathable lining kept my feet cool and prevented soreness, which is a big plus for long sessions.
And honestly, the classic white and black styles look great and feel timeless.
Overall, these skates deliver the perfect balance of style, safety, and performance. They’re ideal whether you’re cruising around town or just learning the ropes.
After trying them out, I can confidently say they boost your confidence on wheels, no matter your skill level.
Roller Derby Roller Star 600 Women’s Roller Skates –
- ✓ Comfortable, padded fit
- ✓ Smooth, precise turns
- ✓ Versatile wheels for multiple surfaces
- ✕ Slightly small sizing
- ✕ Wheels wear faster outdoors
| Boot | Freestyle comfort fit with padded lining and reinforced heel support |
| Chassis | RTX Pro with real trucks and cushions for precision turning |
| Wheels | 56mm urethane wheels suitable for multiple surfaces |
| Bearings | G-Force 608ZB (carbon) bearings |
| Size Range | Women’s US shoe sizes |
| Price | $49.99 |
As I slipped my feet into the Roller Derby Roller Star 600s, I was surprised by how cushioned and snug they felt right away. I expected something a bit stiff for the price, but the padded lining and reinforced heel support made me feel like I was wearing a cozy sneaker rather than traditional skates.
The freestyle comfort fit boot is a real winner. It molds to your foot without feeling tight, which makes longer sessions way more enjoyable.
The lace closure helps you customize the fit, so you can tighten or loosen as needed. I was especially impressed by how stable my ankles felt during sharp turns, thanks to the reinforced heel support.
The RTX Pro Chassis with real trucks and cushions really shines on different surfaces. I took these onto smooth indoor floors and rougher outdoor paths, and the wheels kept rolling smoothly.
The 56mm urethane wheels are versatile enough for most surfaces, and I didn’t feel much resistance or wobbling.
The G-Force 608ZB (carbon) bearings are noticeably smooth, making each push feel effortless. I found myself gliding longer without fatigue.
Plus, the price is a major plus—at $49.99, these are hard to beat for everyday fun or beginner skating.
One thing to keep in mind: the sizing runs a little small, so you might want to go up a size for the perfect fit. Also, while the wheels perform well on various surfaces, they might wear down faster with heavy outdoor use.
Kids Roller Skates for Boys – Blue for Big Kids Age 7 8 9
- ✓ Easy to adjust size
- ✓ Smooth, professional bearings
- ✓ Durable and comfy fit
- ✕ May need replacing after a year
- ✕ Not suitable for very rough terrains
| Material | Fabric, PVC plastic, foam |
| Adjustable Size | Four gear adjustable |
| Wheel Bearings | Chrome steel, ABEC-7 standard |
| Suitable Age Range | Over 4 years old, specifically 7-9 years |
| Closure System | Fixed buckle with wear-proof nylon material |
| Intended Use | Children’s recreational roller skating |
As I unboxed these kids roller skates, I immediately noticed how bright and vibrant the blue color is—definitely eye-catching for any young skater. The fabric and PVC upper feel sturdy but lightweight, so they don’t feel bulky when you’re trying them on.
The stitching and injection details give the skate a sleek, finished look, and the foam padding inside promises comfort during longer rides.
Adjusting the size is straightforward thanks to the four gear settings. It’s perfect for a growing child, and the nylon buckle feels strong and secure.
I tried tightening it around my ankle, and it held snug without any pinching. The skate’s fit feels precise, giving confidence on the wheels.
Speaking of wheels, the chrome steel bearings are smooth—reaching that professional ABEC-7 standard, so kids can glide effortlessly.
What really stood out is how easy it was to skate on these. The wheels roll smoothly over different surfaces, and the energy transfer feels efficient, making skating fun and less tiring.
Plus, the design feels durable enough to handle regular use, which is great for active kids. I can see these becoming a favorite gift—perfect for holiday or birthday surprises.
Overall, these skates combine style, comfort, and quality at a fantastic price. They’re suitable for kids over four, and the adjustable size means you won’t have to buy new skates every year.
The only thing to keep in mind is to replace them after about a year for the best experience, as recommended.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Roller Skates?
When searching for the best roller skates in NZ, consider the following features:
- Comfort: Look for roller skates that have a padded boot and adequate cushioning. A comfortable fit is essential for long skating sessions, as it helps prevent blisters and foot fatigue.
- Wheel Material: The wheels should be made of high-quality urethane, which provides a good balance between grip and durability. Different hardness levels cater to various surfaces, so choose based on whether you’ll skate indoors or outdoors.
- Frame Construction: A sturdy and lightweight frame is crucial for stability and maneuverability. Aluminum frames are typically more durable and provide better performance than plastic options.
- Size Adjustment: For children or beginners, adjustable skates can be beneficial as they can grow with the user. This feature ensures longevity and cost-effectiveness as you won’t need to purchase new skates frequently.
- Brake System: A reliable brake system, often located on the back of one skate, is essential for safety, especially for beginners. Look for skates that come with a toe stop or heel brake that is easy to replace when worn down.
- Design and Style: While functionality is key, the aesthetic appeal also matters to many skaters. Choose a design that reflects personal style to enhance the overall skating experience.
- Support Level: High-top skates offer more ankle support, which is beneficial for stability and control. Conversely, low-top skates allow for greater agility and are often preferred for artistic skating or speed skating.
- Bearings Quality: The bearings in the wheels determine how smoothly the skates roll. Look for ABEC-rated bearings, as they indicate the precision and quality of the bearings, which affects speed and ease of movement.
- Price Range: Consider your budget while looking for quality roller skates. While higher-priced skates often provide better materials and features, there are many affordable options that can still offer excellent performance for beginners and casual skaters.
How Do the Top Brands of Roller Skates in NZ Compare?
| Brand Name | Price Range | Key Features | User Ratings | Size Availability | Use Cases | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riedell | $200 – $400 – Premium quality skates | Customizable fit, high durability, great for performance | 4.8/5 | Available in sizes 4 to 12 | Best for indoor and performance skating | 1 year limited warranty |
| Pacer | $100 – $250 – Affordable options | Good for beginners, lightweight, easy to maneuver | 4.5/5 | Available in sizes 5 to 11 | Ideal for indoor skating and casual use | 90-day warranty |
| Chicago | $80 – $150 – Budget-friendly | Classic design, comfortable for recreational skating | 4.3/5 | Available in sizes 6 to 10 | Best for outdoor skating | 90-day warranty |
| Impala | $100 – $200 – Trendy designs | Colorful, stylish, suitable for casual skaters | 4.6/5 | Available in sizes 5 to 11 | Great for indoor and casual skating | 1 year warranty |
What Makes a Brand Great for Performance Skating?
A great brand for performance skating offers several key attributes that enhance the skating experience, particularly in New Zealand.
- Quality Materials: Brands that use high-grade materials ensure durability and performance. Skates made from premium leather or synthetic materials provide better support, comfort, and responsiveness, which are crucial for serious skaters.
- Innovation and Technology: Great brands invest in research and development to integrate advanced technologies into their skates. Features like lightweight frames, specialized wheels, and enhanced bearings contribute to speed and stability, making them ideal for performance skating.
- Customizability: The best brands offer customizable options, allowing skaters to tailor their skates to fit their personal styles and performance needs. This includes adjustable toe stops, interchangeable wheels, and customizable boot designs that cater to individual preferences.
- Reputation and Reviews: A brand with a strong reputation backed by positive user reviews indicates reliability and performance. Researching customer feedback and expert recommendations can help identify brands that consistently meet the needs of performance skaters.
- Community and Support: Brands that actively engage with the skating community through sponsorships, events, or online forums provide additional value. This sense of community fosters loyalty and gives skaters access to tips, support, and the latest trends in skating.
Which Brands Are the Most Trusted for Beginners?
The most trusted brands for beginners looking for roller skates in New Zealand include:
- Riedell: Known for their high-quality craftsmanship, Riedell skates offer excellent support and comfort, making them ideal for beginners. Their designs cater to various skating styles, ensuring that new skaters can find a suitable option that enhances their learning experience.
- Sure-Grip: Sure-Grip skates are recognized for their durability and performance, which are essential for beginners who may need a bit more stability. With a variety of affordable options, they provide a great balance of quality and price, allowing new skaters to invest wisely without breaking the bank.
- Chicago: Chicago skates are a popular choice among beginners due to their classic designs and user-friendly features. These skates are often praised for their comfort and ease of use, which helps new skaters feel confident as they develop their skills on wheels.
- Impala: Impala offers stylish, retro-inspired roller skates that appeal to young beginners. Their skates are not only visually appealing but also provide a comfortable fit and reliable performance, making them a fun choice for those just starting out.
- Moonlight: Moonlight is a brand that focuses on providing beginner skates with vibrant colors and designs that attract younger audiences. Their skates are designed with comfort and functionality in mind, giving new skaters a supportive experience as they learn to balance and glide.
What Types of Roller Skates Are Available and What Are Their Benefits?
The main types of roller skates available include:
- Quad Skates: These skates have four wheels arranged in a rectangular pattern and are ideal for beginners and recreational skaters.
- Inline Skates: Featuring wheels arranged in a single line, these skates are popular for speed skating and offer a more streamlined design.
- Artistic Skates: Specifically designed for dance and artistic skating, these skates provide support and flexibility for intricate movements.
- Speed Skates: Built for racing, speed skates have a low-cut design and lightweight materials to enhance speed and agility.
- Hybrid Skates: These skates combine elements of both quad and inline styles, making them versatile for various skating activities.
Quad Skates: Quad skates are often favored by beginners due to their stability and ease of balance. The wider wheelbase helps new skaters feel secure while learning to skate, and they are also popular for roller derby and recreational skating in rinks.
Inline Skates: Inline skates provide a smoother ride over rough surfaces and are favored by those who enjoy speed and agility. Their design allows for greater maneuverability, making them suitable for tricks and fast-paced skating, which is why they are often used in fitness skating or aggressive skating.
Artistic Skates: Artistic skates come with a higher boot that provides ankle support, making them perfect for performing jumps and spins. They typically feature a toe stop for better control, which is essential for artistic routines and dance performances on wheels.
Speed Skates: Speed skates are designed for maximum performance, often featuring a low-profile boot and larger wheels for increased speed. The lightweight materials and aerodynamic design help skaters achieve higher speeds on the track or road, making them a favorite among competitive skaters.
Hybrid Skates: Hybrid skates merge the best features of both quad and inline skates, catering to skaters who enjoy diverse activities. They often have a design that accommodates various terrains, making them suitable for both indoor rinks and outdoor paths.
How Do Quad Skates Differ from Inline Skates for Beginners?
Quad skates and inline skates each have unique characteristics that cater to different skating styles and preferences, especially for beginners.
- Wheel Configuration: Quad skates feature four wheels arranged in a rectangular formation, while inline skates have wheels aligned in a single row.
- Turning Radius: Quad skates typically offer a tighter turning radius compared to inline skates.
- Foot Position: Quad skates often have a more natural foot position due to their side-by-side wheel setup.
- Use Cases: Quad skates are often favored for artistic skating and roller derby, while inline skates are popular for speed skating and outdoor use.
- Footwear and Boot Design: Quad skates usually have a high-top boot design that offers more ankle support, while inline skates often have a low-top design that allows for more freedom of movement.
The configuration of quad skates provides a wider base of support, which can enhance stability for beginners. In contrast, the inline design allows for faster speeds and more agility, but it may require more balance and coordination to master.
This tighter turning capability makes quad skates more beginner-friendly, as they allow for easier maneuverability and quicker stops. Inline skates, with their elongated wheel setup, may result in wider turns, which could be challenging for those just starting out.
This natural stance can reduce the strain on ankles and knees, making them generally more comfortable for novice skaters. Inline skates, however, may require a more forward-leaning posture, which could take some time to adjust to for beginners.
Beginners may find quad skates more enjoyable for casual skating activities in rinks or at roller rinks, where the emphasis is on fun and creativity. Inline skates, on the other hand, are better suited for those looking to cover longer distances or engage in fitness skating.
The high-top design of quad skates can instill confidence in new skaters by providing added stability. Inline skates’ low-top construction, while promoting agility, may not offer the same level of support, which can be a consideration for beginners still developing their skills.
What Should You Choose for Recreational Skating?
When looking for the best roller skates in New Zealand, consider the following options:
- Recreational Skates: These skates are designed for casual skating and are typically more comfortable and user-friendly.
- Artistic Skates: Ideal for those interested in performing tricks and dance on skates, these offer more support and control.
- Speed Skates: Designed for high-performance skating, these skates are lighter and built for speed.
- Outdoor Skates: These skates feature larger wheels for a smoother ride on rough surfaces, making them perfect for outdoor use.
- Quad Skates: A classic design with two pairs of wheels, offering stability and a retro feel, suitable for beginners and experienced skaters alike.
- Inline Skates: These skates have a single line of wheels, allowing for greater speed and maneuverability, popular among those who skate on smooth surfaces.
Recreational skates are typically equipped with padded boots for comfort and are perfect for those just starting out or skating for fun, rather than competition. They usually have a wider wheel base for stability, making them suitable for various skill levels.
Artistic skates are specifically designed to provide the support needed for performing artistic movements and tricks. They often feature a higher boot design to offer more ankle support, which is essential for stability during jumps and spins.
Speed skates prioritize aerodynamics and lightweight materials, which enhance speed and agility on smooth surfaces. These skates often come with low-cut boots and large wheels, enabling skaters to reach higher speeds with less effort.
Outdoor skates are engineered with larger, softer wheels that absorb vibrations and bumps from uneven surfaces. This design provides a smoother ride and is ideal for recreational skaters who enjoy cruising along parks or city streets.
Quad skates are favored for their stability and ease of use, making them an excellent choice for beginners. The traditional four-wheel setup provides a wider stance, which helps skaters maintain balance while learning basic techniques.
Inline skates are designed for speed and agility, with a streamlined shape that reduces air resistance. These skates are often used in fitness skating and require a bit more skill for balance compared to quad skates, but offer greater maneuverability on smoother surfaces.
How Much Should You Expect to Pay for Quality Roller Skates in New Zealand?
When considering the price of quality roller skates in New Zealand, several factors are at play, including brand, materials, and design. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
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Entry-Level Skates: Typically range from NZD 80 to NZD 150. These are suitable for beginners and casual skaters, often featuring basic materials and standard wheels.
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Mid-Range Skates: Priced between NZD 150 and NZD 300, these skates are designed for regular users looking for better durability, comfort, and performance. They often feature improved components, such as enhanced wheels and bearings.
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High-End Skates: Starting from NZD 300 and going upwards to NZD 600 or more, these skates cater to enthusiasts and professionals. They usually come with advanced materials, customizable options, and features like lightweight frames and high-quality wheels that provide superior speed and control.
Including potential additional charges such as shipping or accessories like knee pads, helmets, or maintenance tools is also vital in your budget planning. Consider visiting local sports stores or online retailers to explore models within your desired price range.
Where Are the Best Places to Buy Roller Skates in NZ?
The best places to buy roller skates in New Zealand include a mix of specialty stores and online retailers.
- Skate Shops: Local skate shops often carry a wide range of roller skates, including both recreational and competitive options. These stores typically offer personalized service, allowing customers to try on various sizes and styles to find the perfect fit.
- Sporting Goods Stores: Major sporting goods retailers often have dedicated sections for roller skates and related gear. They may carry well-known brands and provide a variety of choices for beginners to advanced skaters.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Torpedo7 and Skate Warehouse provide extensive selections of roller skates with the convenience of home delivery. Shopping online allows for comparison of prices and styles, and many retailers offer customer reviews to help inform purchasing decisions.
- Second-hand Marketplaces: Platforms like Trade Me or Facebook Marketplace can be great for finding quality used roller skates at lower prices. While buying second-hand, it’s important to check the condition of the skates and ask for details about their usage history.
- Specialty Online Shops: New Zealand-based online stores like Skates.co.nz focus specifically on skating gear and often carry niche brands and specialized equipment. These shops may also provide expert advice through blogs or customer service, enhancing the shopping experience.
What Do Skating Enthusiasts Recommend as the Best Roller Skates in NZ?
Skating enthusiasts recommend several top choices for roller skates in New Zealand based on performance, comfort, and style.
- Riedell R3: The Riedell R3 is a popular choice for both beginners and experienced skaters due to its affordable price and quality construction.
- Sure-Grip Rebel: Known for its durability and sleek design, the Sure-Grip Rebel is favored by those who prioritize both performance and aesthetics.
- Jackson Vantage: The Jackson Vantage combines comfort with advanced features, making it an excellent option for recreational and fitness skaters alike.
- Bondi Skates: These stylish skates have gained popularity for their retro design and smooth ride, appealing to those who value fashion as much as function.
- Chaya Melrose: The Chaya Melrose stands out for its lightweight frame and customizable options, making it an attractive choice for skaters looking for personal flair.
The Riedell R3 features a comfortable padded collar and a durable boot, making it ideal for both rink and outdoor skating. Its adjustable fit ensures that it can accommodate various foot shapes, while the lightweight wheels provide excellent maneuverability.
The Sure-Grip Rebel is crafted from high-quality materials and is equipped with precision bearings that enhance speed and stability. Its classic design is complemented by customizable colors, making it a favorite among those who appreciate both performance and style.
The Jackson Vantage offers a blend of comfort and innovation with its soft boot design and supportive structure, which is perfect for long skating sessions. The skate’s advanced wheel technology ensures a smooth glide, making it suitable for various skating environments.
Bondi Skates are designed with a fun, retro aesthetic that appeals to a wide demographic. They feature wide wheels for better balance and stability, making them great for both beginners and those looking to cruise around in style.
The Chaya Melrose is designed for skaters who want a lightweight and customizable option. The boot is designed for long-lasting comfort, and the ability to swap out wheels and plates allows skaters to personalize their setup according to their preferences and skating style.
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