You don’t have to wait until winter to go ice skating – you can visit professional roller skating rinks equipped for year-round skating. However, when it comes to using skates on ice, things get a little more serious because it is very important to understand what skates are and how to make the right choice.
If you want to glide gracefully across the ice, it is important to determine the purpose of the skates before purchasing. Skates can be divided into four types: speed skating, figure skating, hockey and recreational skating. The price of skates depends on their type, since each type is made from different materials with special manufacturing requirements.
Speed skates are designed for competitive sports and are focused on high-speed movement along a straight path without sharp turns. These skates have long blades that allow them to reach high speeds. Skate boots are made to be lightweight to prevent excessive stress on your feet during long periods of work. When using these skates, you must skate on smooth ice without bumps.
Figure skating skates
For those interested in figure skating, attention to the blades is of utmost importance. Figure skates are equipped with tip-toes that allow you to perform techniques typical of figure skating. The heel of the blade is extended by 2-2.5 cm, which provides better stability. As a rule, figure skating boots are made of artificial or natural leather, as well as CP93 material. If warmth is a priority, it is recommended to use skates with boots made of genuine leather, as they provide thermal insulation and adapt to the shape of the foot, as well as wick moisture. Boots made of artificial leather are lighter and retain their appearance longer without getting wet. CP93 is a lightweight and highly durable material that is resistant to damage and water.
When it comes to hockey, hockey skates are designed with the player’s safety in mind. These skates have thick padding to protect your ankles and feet from injury and provide a comfortable fit. A metal mesh is used on the toes and heels of hockey skates, and special plastic pads, clamps and straps are added to ensure the correct positioning of the foot. The soles of hockey skates are often made of plastic or thick rubber, and the blades are made of durable steel. The length of the blade is equal to the length of the boot.
Walking skates are designed for leisurely skating and relaxation. These skates typically do not have ankle support and are made of lightweight, waterproof plastic. The blades, like hockey skates, are made of steel.
In conclusion, it should be noted that if you have already decided on the type of skating, then choosing and purchasing ice skates should not be a problem. Like any other product, ice skates can be purchased at sports stores or online. Buying skates from a store has the advantage of being able to touch and try them on before making a decision.
When buying skates, you need to focus not only on price, but also on factors such as weight. You can estimate the weight without trying on the skates – just pick them up and feel their weight in your hand. According to reviews, although heavy skates can cause fatigue, switching to lighter skates allows you to feel like you are gliding on air. Additionally, heavy boots have been found to promote a better workout than lighter ones.
Assessing the quality of materials is also important. The quality of the boot and blade material makes a significant difference. Skates with clear, hollow blade material should be avoided. Thick blades, as experienced skaters note in their reviews, provide better stability and reduce the risk of injury compared to skates with thin blades. Thin blades are generally preferred by masters and figure skating professionals.
If you have the opportunity to try it on, it is important to choose the right size. When purchasing figure skates and recreational skates, you usually choose a size that matches your everyday shoe size. To ensure proper fit, try placing your hand between the heel of your foot and the boot. If it fits through with some difficulty, then it is the right size. If the little finger does not fit at all, then the skates may be too tight. It is also recommended to try on boots with thin or medium-thick socks.
Hockey skates
Hockey skates, on the other hand, are recommended to be purchased in the same size as your shoes. If you experience discomfort, pressure or tightness when trying on hockey skates, it is recommended to try on a different skate size, as uncomfortable skates can quickly turn skating into a painful experience.
Another option for purchasing skates is through online stores. This method is convenient for those who are looking for inexpensive skates while saving time on a trip to a physical store. Online stores usually provide catalogs with photographs and