As a former professional figure skater now specialising in winter travel and wild ice skating, I understand the importance of starting with the right equipment. Choosing your first pair of ice skates can be a daunting task, given the various types available—figure skates, hockey skates, and recreational skates—each designed for specific forms of ice skating and skill levels. This blog post will help beginner skaters make an informed decision on purchasing the best ice skates that offer a comfortable fit, great ankle support, and are appropriate for their initial foray into ice skating.
Understanding Different Types of Skates
Figure Skates
Figure skates are tailored for those interested in figure skating disciplines, characterized by their toe picks on the front of the blades. These picks are crucial for performing jumps and spins, distinguishing figure skates from other types. The boots of figure skates tend to be more flexible than hockey skates, allowing skaters the ankle mobility needed for various figure skating moves. For beginners, choosing a figure skate with a slightly softer boot can be advantageous—it facilitates greater comfort and easier maneuverability as they learn the fundamental skills of figure skating. The blade's design also provides a larger surface area on the ice, offering better balance and stability for those new to ice skating.
Hockey Skates
Hockey skates are engineered for performance and speed, making them ideal for those interested in the fast-paced game of ice hockey. These skates feature a shorter, curved blade that allows for quick, agile movements and rapid changes in direction. The boots are typically stiffer to provide enhanced protection against pucks and sticks and ensure ample support during powerful strides. The design of hockey skates prioritizes responsiveness and maneuverability, which can also benefit beginners who are not necessarily aiming to play hockey but appreciate a skate that offers stability in a more robust form. For novices, a less stiff model can be more appropriate as it provides the necessary support while allowing for easier learning of basic skating techniques..
Recreational Skates
Recreational skates are designed for the casual skater who is not looking to engage in the more structured practice of figure skating or hockey but still wants to enjoy the ice. These skates are generally the most user-friendly, offering comfort and adequate support without the high-performance features of more specialized skates. Recreational skates often have a softer boot that emphasizes comfort over the precision of movement, making them ideal for leisurely skating sessions at public rinks or small ponds. They are also typically the most affordable type of skate, making them an attractive option for occasional skaters or those just starting to explore the joys of ice skating without a significant initial investment.
Nordic Skates
Nordic skates are specifically designed for long-distance touring on natural ice, making them an exceptional choice for wild ice skating adventures. These skates feature a long, straight blade that affords excellent stability and glide over uneven natural ice and frozen surfaces such as those found on large lakes and rivers. Unlike traditional figure or hockey skates, Nordic skates are attached to the skater's footwear, typically cross-country ski boots, using bindings. This setup not only provides superior comfort and warmth but also enhances ankle support, which is crucial for maintaining balance during extended skating sessions.
What Makes a Great Beginner Skate?
A great ice skate for beginners should have a few key features:
Good Blades: Look for stainless steel blades that are durable and maintain sharp blades longer.
Comfortable Fit: Ensure the boot fits well. It should be snug but not tight, allowing the foot some room to move without slipping. Adjustable skates are a great option, especially for young skaters whose feet may still be growing.
Ankle Support: Beginners need good ankle support to help maintain balance and avoid injuries. Stiffness rating of the boot should be moderate to provide support without hindering movement.
Proper Fit: Getting the right size is crucial. Unlike regular shoes, skates need to fit well to ensure good controland comfort. It's a good idea to get fitted at a skate shop by a professional.
Essential Tips for First-Time Skaters
Choosing the Right Skates
Price Range: Determine your budget. While it's tempting to go for the best value, remember that the cheapest option may not always be the best. High-quality materials in slightly more expensive skates can ensure comfort and durability in the long run.
Skill Level: Consider how frequently you plan to skate and what goals you have. A simple recreational skate is sufficient for occasional use, while more specific models like Riedell skates or Jackson Mystiques might be required for those considering routine practice or lessons.
Getting Started
Skate Guards: Always use skate guards off the ice to protect the blades.
Learning Resources: Utilize online tutorials, group lessons, or private lessons to learn basic techniques and skate basic skills.
Regular Practice: Like any skill, regular practice is key. Spend additional time on the ice to become comfortable with your new skates and the basics of moving, stopping, and turning.
Safety First
Protective Gear: Wear protective gear such as knee pads and a helmet, especially if you're trying hockey skating.
Follow Guidelines: Always adhere to the rink’s safety rules and guidelines to ensure not only your safety but also that of others around you.
Ice Skate Brands for Beginners: From Budget to Premium
Choosing the right brand and model of ice skates can greatly influence a beginner's learning curve and overall skating experience. Here are some notable brands arranged from more affordable to premium options, each offering models that are well-suited for beginner skaters. Most of the skates are available through local retailers or online store in your area.
Budget-Friendly Brands for Beginners
Graf: Known for its quality craftsmanship at a moderate price, Graf offers a range of skates that are ideal for beginners. Their beginner models focus on comfort and support without overwhelming the new skater with too stiff a boot. Look for the Graf 500 or the Graf Bolero, which are both well-suited for recreational and beginner figure skaters.
Jackson Mystiques: Jackson Skates are a popular choice among ice skating novices due to their balance of quality and affordability. The Jackson Mystique line is perfect for beginners, providing good ankle support and a comfortable interior. They're durable enough for the first stages of training and learning.
Mid-Range Brands for Growing Skills
Riedell: Offering a wide range of skates, Riedell caters to all levels, including beginners. The Riedell Sparkle or the Riedell Opal are great starter skates. They are engineered for comfort and provide sufficient support for new skaters, making them a good choice for those who are serious about learning to skate well.
Risport: Renowned for their craftsmanship and attention to detail, Risport skates are highly favored in the figure skating community. For beginners, Risport offers models like the Risport Antares and Risport Venus, which are specifically designed with the novice skater in mind. With a slightly softer boot compared to advanced models, they allow for easier movement and flexibility as beginners work on their technique.
Premium Brands for Serious Beginners
Edea: While Edea skates are often seen on the feet of professionals, they also offer models like the Edea Overture, which is designed for beginner to intermediate skaters. Edea skates are lighter and provide a snug fit, which can be beneficial for beginners looking to develop strong fundamental skills.
Aura: Aura skates blend technology and comfort to provide an exceptional skating experience. While they tend to be pricier, they offer features like better weight distribution and enhanced comfort, which can significantly aid a beginner in mastering the basics of ice skating.
Investing in the Right Brand
When selecting a brand, consider what stage of skating you're entering, your frequency of practice, and your budget. While cheaper skates may be more appealing price-wise, investing in a mid-range brand could provide better support and durability as your skills improve. Premium brands, though more expensive, offer advanced technologies that enhance performance and comfort, which can be beneficial as you move from beginner to intermediate levels.
Trusted Blade Brands for Ice Skates
John Wilson: John Wilson is one of the most respected names in ice skate blades, known for their precision and quality. For beginners, the John Wilson Coronation Ace blade is an excellent choice. It offers a gentle pick pattern which is less aggressive than those found on blades designed for advanced skaters, making it easier for beginners to learn without catching their toe pick unexpectedly.
MK Blades: MK Blades are another popular choice among ice skaters at all levels. For those just starting out, the MK Flight blade is designed to provide stability and support. It has a straight cut pick and a profile that helps new skaters develop confidence and control on the ice.
Paramount Blades: Known for their lightweight design thanks to their aircraft aluminum construction, Paramount offers blades like the Paramount 440SS model which is great for beginners. These blades are lighter than traditional steel blades, which can help reduce fatigue and make it easier for new skaters to practice longer.
Ultima Blades: Ultima is a well-known brand that offers a variety of blades suitable for all levels, including beginners. The Ultima Aspire blade is a popular choice for novice skaters, featuring a profile that supports basic skills development and is forgiving enough for those just starting to learn.
Eclipse Blades: Eclipse offers high-quality blades with a focus on achieving a balance between performance and comfort. The Eclipse Mist is designed specifically for beginners and recreational skaters, providing durability and a gentle pick pattern to aid new skaters in their learning process.
Selecting the perfect pair of ice skates as a beginner involves understanding your needs, the differences between skates, and what features are most important for your style of skating. Remember, a good fit and proper ankle support can significantly enhance your performance and enjoyment of the sport. Whether you aspire to figure skating, ice hockey, or simply wish to skate for fun, starting with the right equipment will pave the way for a successful and enjoyable skating experience.
