By Learn-To-Skate Coach, Laurel C.
Purchasing figure skates is a great next step in a skater’s journey and allows many to greatly improve just by having their own set of boots and blades! Skaters of any level can benefit from investing in a pair of skates. Owning your own pair of skates helps skaters to take on more responsibility and can be a fun way to personalize the skating experience. While it may seem scary, we have some tips to help you get started!
Essential Gear
Skate Guards: Plastic covers for the blades to protect them whenever a skater walks on a surface that is not ice. They help keep the blades strong and sharp!
Soakers: Towel-like cover for the blades when the skates are not in use. To soak up any excess water and prevent rust.
Towel: Used to dry the blades when skaters are ready to take off their boots.
How do I know if a skate fits properly?
Skates are different from street shoes in that they are supposed to feel snug and have strong ankle support. There should be no room for the foot to slide around in the boot. Trace both feet on a piece of paper to get accurate measurements! We want the ankle area stiff enough to support a squat position, but not too stiff the skater has no ankle mobility. See the pictures above for examples of good and bad ankle support.
Any recommendations?
Yes! While there are many brands to choose from, we have beginner skate guides available for: Edea, Jackson Ultima, and Ridell. Please see below for information on brand-specific recommendations.
Jackson Ultima
I like this chart because it helps point skaters in the right direction of the proper boots to buy for their individual skills and build. All skates shown come with boots and blades and with the blades already mounted. For help sizing: http://www.jacksonultimaskate.com/static/SizingChartForLength.pdf
I’m still confused and don’t have time to travel to try on skates.
Buying skates can certainly seem like a daunting process and investment. I always recommend going in person to try on skates, but I know it can be challenging both time and money-wise. If your skates are too stiff or too weak, it can be easier for you to get injured. I suggest contacting a coach for a local evaluation / recommendation and browse the Jackson website for more!
Where do I go to learn more?
If you want to talk to someone in Moscow about Jackson skates, I can be reached at: laurel.fscoach@outlook.com
Or for the official website:
https://jacksonskate.com/pages/ltsskaters
Do I have to buy from the official Jackson Ultima site?
Not at all! While Jackson has a list of authorized retailers, there are many other shops to look at that also carry fun accessories. Just be mindful of a potential re-stocking fee and be sure to do your own research as well!
I have skated with Jackson Ultima skates my whole life and continue to love them!
They have great, cost-effective options for beginners of all ages. In addition, they have options for your skater as they continue to progress!
Many of the beginner options are available on Amazon which makes for easy returns and are carried by a local skate shop in Spokane / Couer d’Alene so a skater can try on multiple styles and sizes in person.
They range from $100-$300 for beginner skates.
You can also visit NorthWest Skates: https://nwskates.com/. They are located in Spokane.
Riedell
Boot sizes will change based on brand. If you are considering Riedell, please use the cutout from Riedell
to measure your foot and select the best boot match. All skates recommended for this level include a boot with a mounted blade.
www.ice.riedellskates.com/fitting
I’m still confused and don’t have time to travel to try on skates.
Different brands are designed to fit differently. Ask skaters how their skate fits and the benefits of those features. At this level, skates are available through various websites (e.g., ebay, sidelineswap.com, and FigureSkatingStore.com) and Amazon. If the sellers allow, buying multiple brands and then trying them on in your home with a hard skate guard is a great option. You can usually return the one that doesn’t fit right as long as you have not damaged them or skated on ice.
Do I have to buy from the official Riedell site?
No, there are lots of websites that sell Riedell skates. I would start researching on the official website to identify the model to best meet your needs and to review the sizing chart to make sure you are purchasing the correct fit. Then, look online.
For more information: www.ice.riedellskates.com
From Coach Ashley:
I have skated in Riedell’s as a child and now as an adult skater. I find the
quality and durability key considerations for my personal purchases. Historically, my Riedell’s have lasted me 2+ years with 4-5 skate sessions of 1-2 hours per
week. The boots tend to be narrow though wide boot options are available through the brand website. I also appreciate the design for a tight ankle fit.
experience. This allows you to mold the skate to your foot, identify
socks/tights that work best for your boot, and learn how to tie laces the right
way.
If you have questions, please feel free to email me at acfrance@live.com.
Other popular brands: Edea and Risport
Edea: https://edeaskates.com/en/
Risport: https://www.risport.com/