About Us

David Ripp's History

David Ripp, President of Skates US, literally grew up at his grandfather's (Charles Snyder) skate shop in Dayton, Ohio. “When grandpa's skates became the rage after my mother (Shirley) did so well on them, he left his job as a tool maker at Frigidaire to make the skates full time”.

 The Double Action Super Deluxe Model was made for Shirley. However, when David was a competitive skater, he was also skating ice shows, Tests and Competition and wanted a roller skate that responded as quickly as the ice blade.  His Grandfather worked with him to develop the Imperial Model skate. David went on to win 13, first, second and third placements at the North American Championships.

David became Vice-President of the Snyder Skate Company in the early 80’s.  He invented the click-action adjustment feature that is still used on many skates today.  It allows for easy and precise changes to the action of the skates.  He travels today for Skates US to competitions and events to promote the skates and boots that “deliver the best possible response for serious skaters”.  A quote from the Roller skater’s Gazette Newsletter this past March from Chester Fried says it best, “Many skaters had questions about equipment, and David is, in my opinion, is the #1 expert in knowledge about skates, skating and equipment.  He is the “Skate Doctor!”  

Today, he still coaches when he can and definitely skates regular and dance sessions!  

David and Carolyn are also your hosts when you visit Skyborn Skateland in Fairborn, OH (Dayton, OH).  Visit us at www.SkybornSkateland.com.