You have just scored the game-winning goal and are about to lace up your skates. The thrill of victory is making your adrenaline rush, and you just want to keep playing. But before you do, there is a process you need to go through to properly lace up your skates.
Here is how you should do it:
Table of Contents
Tie The Hockey Skates Properly
The first thing you need to do is tie the hockey skates properly. Even though you are a talented hockey player, no one is an expert in every area of hockey. So, before you start playing, it is important to know how to tie your skates correctly. You have two choices when it comes to tying your hockey skates:
- Traditional: This is the most common way to lace up your skates. The lacing system is almost the same for all ice sports, but it is a little different for ice hockey. Most NHL players use this type of lacing system. However, some players prefer alternative ways of lacing their skates.
- Rocker-type: This type of lacing system allows you to adjust the tension of the skate by rotating a ratchet mechanism. Some players prefer this type of lacing system because it allows them to feel more connected to the ice while playing. A typical example is Evgeni Malkin. He always races up and down the ice floor, pushing his opponents and making exciting plays. Malkin uses this type of lacing system because it allows him to make those plays as he pushes off the ice floor.
- The choice is up to you. Most hockey skaters use the traditional method because it is easy and quick. However, the other two options offer excellent benefits, depending on your needs.
Wider Is Better
Another thing you need to do is widen your skates. The width of your skates will determine how fast you can go. Wider skates will give you a better speed and will also help you perform better plays. You should always be looking for wider skates whenever you are in an ice-skating store. It is important to note that the wider the better when it comes to hockey skates. The majority of NHL players use wider skates, so you are already ahead of the game. Why not try out these wide skates and see how they feel? You can always take a pair home with you and try them out later that day.
Tight Is Better
Another thing you need to do is tighten your skates. The majority of NHL players use very tight skates because they feel that it improves their performance. They claim that it helps them improve their balance while on the ice and also while pushing off of it. So, whenever you are in an ice-skating store, you should be looking for tighter skates. These will help you improve your game and also make you a better player.
As you can see, there is a lot to consider when it comes to tying your hockey skates. It is important to do your research and choose the right pair of skates for you. You should only choose to use traditional or rocker-type of lacing systems; otherwise, you may end up causing yourself injury. Also, make sure you are doing it correctly. Take your time and follow the instructions carefully. Good luck!