There are so many different types of hockey skates out there that it can be hard to know which one is the best for your needs. Luckily for you, we’re here to tell you about the various options available so you can make the right choice for your personality type and your play style. In this article, we’ll cover the essential information you need to know about hockey skate types so you can buy the right pair for the next hockey season!
Table of Contents
The Differences Between Traditional, Ice, And Roller Skates
Traditional and ice skates are, in fact, two separate and distinct types of skating equipment. Traditional skates were, initially, developed for use on ponds and were made out of wood and metal. They featured a blade that was slightly wider than the bottom of the skate, giving them their traditional “penguin” look. It was originally thought that people with allergies wouldn’t be able to wear traditional skates, as they would be constantly be suffering from hives and other symptoms due to the allergen found in the wood. This type of skate is still used today, but thanks to advancements in technology, the quality of the materials, and design, these days traditional skates are more reliable than they’ve ever been. They are also, surprisingly, extremely affordable.
Ice skates were, initially, developed for use on frozen ponds, backyards, and other such icy surfaces. They are, essentially, the same as traditional skates, but instead of being designed for use on a dry surface, the blades are designed to slice through the ice easily. This allows for faster skating speeds and higher jumps. Because of this, ice skates are often seen as a more “athletic” option. They are also, generally, a more expensive option, as not only do you have to purchase them, but you have to maintain them as well.
While traditionally there are two types of skates, ice and roller skates, there is, in fact, a third type of skate that’s been developed that combines the best of both worlds. These types of skates are known as all-in-ones, and they feature a metal blade that blends with a roller skate’s casing to form a solid unit. This option is perfect for people who want the speed of a roller skate but the styling of a traditional skate. In other words, if you’ve got the money, these are the best of both worlds, and they’re worth every penny!
Choosing The Right Size
When shopping for any type of gear (including skates), you’ll invariably be faced with the issue of size. This applies to everything from ski boots to snowboard bindings, and it’s a constant source of frustration for those who are looking for the right fit but don’t know how to go about it. When buying skates, however, there are a few crucial things you need to keep in mind to ensure you get the right fit, make sure you order the right size, and avoid any nasty surprises once the item arrives. As with all other types of sports equipment, you want to ensure you order a size that’s going to work for you and that you can’t possibly wear anymore once it’s been used once or twice. This is not only common sense but it’s also good business practice. If you end up not needing the item you purchased, you’ll have wasted a lot of both your time and money, and that’s not what you want when shopping online or at a retail store.
There are multiple sites, apps, and forums that can help you determine the right size for your skates. Many retail stores also have employees who can help you choose the right size for your special demands. They have experience in fitting all types of customers, and they know how important it can be to get the right fit. This is especially crucial when purchasing a pair of ice skates, as you don’t want to choose a size that’s too small and find out that the blades don’t fit, or that the boots aren’t comfortable, or that the setup feels unstable.
Blade Shape
Another crucial factor to consider when choosing your skate blades is their shape. You want to look for a pair of blades that are comfortable in your hands and have the right amount of curve. You also want to make sure they’re sharp enough to slice through the ice easily but not so much that they’re dangerous or difficult to handle. There are many different types of blades out there, all boasting their own benefits, so find a pair that suits your needs and then take a few minutes to read up on the science behind the blades.
Comfort
Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing your new hockey skates, as they’ll be on your hands for the majority of the time you wear them. You don’t want to wear uncomfortable or ill-fitting skates, especially if you’re new to the sport or if you play a strenuous game. Comfort is also vital if you want to be able to enjoy the activity and not be distracted by the discomfort of the item(s) you’re wearing. This is why it’s important to try on a few different pairs before choosing one; you want to make sure you’re getting the right feel and fit for your personal preferences.
The right comfort levels can be found by taking a few minutes to read up on customer reviews and by trying on multiple pairs. Also, make sure you purchase a pair that’s tall enough to reach your ankles without hitting the floor. This ensures that your feet are always supported and that there’s no risk of injury from falling objects. This is particularly important for adult males, as they are more prone to accidents due to falling objects or objects protruding from the ground (such as hockey pucks). Always remember to wear the proper protective equipment (including safety goggles and a mouth guard) when playing any sport to reduce the risk of injury.
Durability
Durability is another important factor to consider when shopping for your new hockey skates. You want to make sure that the item(s) you purchase are going to last you a long time and won’t break down after a few months of extensive use. This is especially important if you’re skating on rough or dirty surfaces, as the friction between the blade and the ground will eventually cause the blade to dull and slip.
Durability can be tested simply by skating on a smooth, hard surface for a few minutes. If the blade is still sharp after that, it’s probably going to last you a long time before it needs to be replaced. Also, look for signs of wear on the edges of the blade; if they’re starting to peel away, it means the blade has started to dull.
Style
Last but not least, we have style. You want to make sure you’re purchasing a pair of skates that compliment your personality and the style of clothing you usually wear. If you have a sporty side and like the way traditional skates look, you might want to get a pair that’s in the shape of a penguin (or other favorite sports symbol). If you’re a bit of a practical joker at heart and love the way ice skates look, you might want to get a pair of those instead. It’s all about style, and you want to make sure you have the one you want before you make the purchase.
To help you find the right pair of skates based on your needs and preferences, we have collected a list of all the best places to find cheap yet high-quality hockey equipment. You’re bound to find a pair of skates that suits your needs at one of these places, so take your time and browse through all the options before making a purchase. Don’t forget about the warranty either, as these retail stores are more than likely going to provide you with good service if anything goes wrong. Plus, many of them offer lifetime warranties on their products, so you’re covered should anything happen to your equipment (for example, should it break or malfunction). This is important, as many of the large retailers don’t offer this type of warranty protection, so make sure you compare this feature before buying.