The right pair of skates is not the one that lasts long but the one that gives you a high level of performance. With many varieties in the market and many elements to consider for your skates, it can be challenging to select the best pair of ice skates.
When it comes to buying ice skates, it will not be like buying shoes. There are many things like shoe size, the width of your forefoot, depth of heel, and overall volume of the skates play a significant role while picking the right pair.
We’re going to narrow down all of the essential criteria and information you need to consider when choosing your perfect pair of ice skates.
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What are you going to be using your skates for?
First of all, it is essential to know the purpose of your skate when buying them. Are you buying them for ice skating, figure skating, or playing ice hockey? Each type of skates has distinct features that are required for a particular sport.
For example, Figure skaters are designed in a way that allows a wide range of motion like jumping, gliding, spinning, stretching, turning, while hockey skates are designed with a curved blade that helps the athlete in increasing their speed.
It’s important that you consider this so that you don’t struggle when doing your ice skating activity.
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What is your level of experience and skill?
The level of experience you have in the sport is important to decide what type of ice skates suits you best. Always consider how much experience you have in order to buy them.
For example, ice hockey skates for beginners and younger players should purchase mid-range skates instead of high range expensive skates. Advanced ice hockey skates are designed for advanced players.
Also, it depends on what type of player you are: defensive or slacked? Are you a goalie or an attacker? Remember to always do some research before buying some skates, especially if you are a beginner.
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What is your build, weight, and size?
Your height, weight, and size are the key elements that affect selecting the right ice skates for you. The heavier you are, the stiffer and wider skates you would require for support and strength. In Ice hockey, buying the right size of skates can help you give your best shot in the game.
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What material was the boot made with?
Ice skates are mainly constructed with leather, nylon, plastic, steel, and several other synthetic materials. For the production of figure ice skating, kangaroo leather is the most popular skins, while for hockey and speed skates, knit nylon and molded plastic are used.
Blades are made with tempered steel and coated with chrome. Some people have allergies to a particular material, while others are picky in selecting ice skates. Choose accordingly.
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What is your budget?
Your budget will always dictate what type of skate you will buy. For a beginner level ice skater, you can go for a cheaper option, while an advanced player, should not consider a cheap option.
Remember that even if the ice skates end up costing more, buying the ones that perfectly fits your size, and provide stability and support is always more important.
Rent if you are a beginner.
It might seem silly to rent a pair, but if you are not prepared to spend that much or just want to give skating a try, then renting is the best option. This option is best and very common for recreational purposes.
Rental ice skates are usually just for casual skating only. Renting is a great way to experience ice skating without having to spend too much and to find out whether it is something you would like to consider seriously.
Conclusion
No matter which sport you are buying your ice skates for, it is important to choose the one that fits well your feet to help you give your best performance. Buying the wrong pair can make your feet sore and even give you blisters. Hopefully, these tips will help you get a good pair of ice skates and make your experience enjoyable.
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