How to Properly Fit a Pair of Skates
There are two types of skates – hockey skates and figure skates. Figure skates have a longer straight blade that extends beyond the heel and have toe picks at the front. Hockey skates have a shorter blade that is rounded at both the toe and heel. There is no right or wrong when choosing the type – it is really a personal preference. Here is my advice for fitting skates:
Choose quality lace up skates over plastic buckle skates. Laces provide uniform tightness from toe to ankle. Plastic skates are colorful and are very attractive to young skaters. The issue is that they tend to be made of low-quality materials, particularly the blade which is usually made from nickel and does not hold a sharpen well.
Used skates are fine as long as they are in good shape and have not broken down at the ankle. Inspect all materials inside and out for rips and tears. Hold the skate up on the blade and ensure that there is at least 6 inches of blade touching the surface.
Skates fit large so choose a skate smaller than the shoe size. For males, one size smaller and for females two sizes smaller.
To fit the skate, see if the insole can be removed. If you can remove the insole, hold it up against the foot. There should be about 1 inch beyond the big toe but no more. If you cannot remove the insole, put the foot inside the skate and move the foot forward until the toes touch the end of the skate. If you can put your forefinger between the heel and the back of the skate, they fit. If you cannot get your finger between the heel and the back of the skate, they are too small and if you can put more than one finger between the heel and the back of the skate, they are too big.
Do not buy skates that are too big hoping your skater will “grow into” the skates or thinking you can put an “extra pair of socks” to help them fit. Socks will make the skate tighter but not in a good way. In order for feet to stay warm, there needs to be a little bit of space around the foot to trap warm air. An extra pair of socks takes up that space and contributes to cold feet.
If you are looking for professional skating or hockey lessons for skaters of any age group or experience level check out the classes we have to offer here. Our lessons take place in midtown Toronto at the Larry Grossman Forest Hill Memorial Arena.
