How to Buy Figure Skates
Finding the right figure skate for you is essential to your performance on the ice. A skate must fit properly and be
the right skate for your level of ability. Consult this guide to help you with your figure skate choice so you get the
pair you need.
Sizing and Fit
Today, many skate manufacturers offer figure skates that size the same as regular shoes do. If you need help finding
what shoe size you should wear, consult our Determine Your Shoe Size or
Determine Your Child's Shoe Size guides. There are also several other tips to
consider:
- If you need to find out what shoe size you wear, make sure you measure both feet in case one is bigger than
the other.
- When measuring for width, both feet should be measured while you are in the sitting position.
- Consider the socks you will be wearing with your skates. You should only wear a thin pair of socks while
skating, so size accordingly.
- Brands vary slightly with sizing and fit. Consider getting more information on fit from the manufacturer or
vendor.
- If you buy a pair of figure skates, try them on before you get the blades sharpened:
- Ice Skate Return Policy: Once the blade has been sharpened on your new pair of skates, our return
policy is voided. Please try on your skates for comfort and fit before having them sharpened. Returns
and exchanges for skates with sharpened blades are subject to refusal.
- When trying them on, lace both boots up firmly with most of the lace pressure at the top 4 eyelets. A secure
fit is important when ice skating.
Selecting Skates by Ability Level
Intermediate and advanced figure skates often have boots and blades sold separately for a more tailored fit and look.
Depending on your skills, stiffness of boots and length of blades vary.
For beginners, look for these features:
- Pre-assembled sets are a good start to learning skating skills and techniques.
- A moderately stiff boot gives your feet and ankles good support, while being flexible enough to break in
quickly and feel comfortable to new skaters.
- It takes time to break in skates and feel comfortable in them.
- Also be sure to look at the boot's tongue for stiffness and padding to protect your legs and feet from
injury.
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