@On Saturday, October 17, 2020 at 7:35:10 PM UTC-6, wrote:
Folks,
I'm former USAF and have really enjoyed flying gliders. I love this topic as it has mystified me and I've heard some amazing things..."if you fly a glider properly you don't need brakes." I also saw a 1-26 brake that was a flexible piece of metal that rubbed against the tread. Personally, I expect a fully applied brake to stop wheel rotation and cause a skid. Clearly the FAA does not feel that is essential in a glider....

Best regards!
John Murtari

When I did my glider transition training the Blanik L-13 i was using was waiting for brake parts from the factory and as a result did not have a working wheel brake. I did all my dual flights, most of my solo flights and my check ride in this glider with no working wheel brake.
Definitely possible to fly without a wheel brake in many, maybe even most situations, but a good wheel brake is a great safety device.

Brian