How to choose a pair of ice skates
A comfortable pair of skates will make your skating experience much more pleasant. Happy feet will perform better on the ice!
You can now buy skates with a boot made of foam and nylon that offer unparalleled comfort and warmth. To choose the right pair, you should go to a specialized store for the service and for the selection. Here are some tips on how to find a pair of skates that are just right for your feet.
- The first thing to consider is the skater’s weight: the heavier the person, the more rigid the skate should be to properly support the ankle.
- For children, choose the size that fits when they try on their skates. As they will surely grow, you will have to buy another pair next year. Since today’s skates are made of better quality materials and therefore last longer, secondhand stores offer an inexpensive solution.
- When buying skates for yourself, choose a pair that is a size and a half smaller than your shoe size. As boot width varies with the company, try on several different brands in the same category to be sure that the skates are a perfect fit.
- Hockey skates (black skates) are recommended for women who do not figure skate. They offer additional support and allow for more natural movement; however, if they are too wide, they will not provide adequate support. In that case, you should opt for junior hockey skates, which provide a better fit for narrow feet.
- When trying on skates, only one pair of socks is necessary. The same applies when you go skating: wear only one pair of warm socks.
Comfort – Bring a pair of dry socks, which you will wear only with your skates. In this way, the dampness in your boots will not be transferred to your skates.
Maintenance – Dry off the blades after each outing and use skate guards. Remove the insoles of your skates so that the boots dry better.
Skate sharpening – Have your skates sharpened about once every five outings. If you skate indoors, where the ice is softer, you can have your skates sharpened after about ten outings.
Safety – If you are a beginner, wear in-line skate kneepads and a helmet.
- Learning to skate
- How to choose a pair of ice skates
- How to make a skating rink
- Disc golf
- Staying warm, even in the winter
- Guide to winter comfort
- Introduction to broomball
- Nordic walking in Québec
- Avoiding injuries caused by extreme cold
- Criteria for a good family tobogganing area
- Cold hands, hot meals!
- Danger! Frozen bodies of water
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