Time to try on Skates!

TIME TO TRY ON YOUR SKATES

Yes it is time to dig out your skater’s skates and do a little Inspection!

First of all, have your skater try on the skates.

Do this with the same socks they would be skating in and with the skate guards on the skates. Best to be on a floor surface that is not too slippery.

Do not use the blade “booties” when wearing the skates.

Remember, feet that have been wearing nothing all summer may rebel a little at first.

Have your skater put the skate on, do not do the laces yet. Have them put their toes right up to the toe end of the boot. We want to just touch the toe end of the boot, not be too crowded.

Now while they are standing, have them bend their knees so you can check the space behind their heel.

They need to keep their foot flat. If you can fit a pencil down behind the foot then you still have a good fit lengthwise.

If you can fit your hand, than it is possible the skate is too big.

Width is a little trickier to determine after a summer out of skates. Have your skater sit and relax while wearing the skates for 15 min or so . Any complaints?

Next do up the skate. They do not need to be too snug. Any complaints?

Finally, you need to look at the condition of the skate.

1. Are there creases in the ankle area? This is a sign of loss of support. NOT GOOD.

2. How is the blade? A Coach or the person who sharpens your skates can often tell you

if the blade is safe and still useful.

REMEMBER TIME FLYS AT THE END OF SUMMER AND YOUR SKATER WILL

BE ON THE ICE BEFORE YOU KNOW IT!

Might be a good idea to have a look at your skate bag, cloths, socks, and maybe some little gloves.

Yes I know it is still very warm outside lol but out on the ice you will need a different "look".