When it comes to your favourite winter sport, you have probably already pondered the question: What size hockey laces do I need for my skates? In this article, we will run down the various factors that you need to consider before purchasing a pair of hockey laces.
Table of Contents
Personal Preferences
The first thing to establish is your personal preferences as a hockey player. This includes the size of the lace you want to use, as well as how you want the lace to feel as you pull it through your skate. Once you have established these preferences, it will be much easier to choose the correct pair of hockey laces.
Skate Size
The next thing to consider is the size of your skate. This is an element that can vary from one skate to another, but it generally refers to the size of the deck in relation to the size of your foot. The bigger the ratio, the larger the skate will feel as you push off on it. When comparing different sizes, it is important to bear in mind that the larger the skate, the more difficult it will be to maneuver on the ice. Having a larger skate also means having to push harder as you glide across the ice. This could result in injuries that you might not have been prepared for, especially if you are a beginner or an amateur. The important thing to keep in mind is that every skater is different, and what might be ideal for one person might not be the best for another. Therefore, it is always advisable to try out different sizes before establishing a preference.
Adjustable
One of the best things about adjustable laces is that they allow you to tighten and loosen them as needed. In some instances, such as when you are learning how to skate, you might want to use them a bit looser than usual. But once you are getting the hang of things, you can gradually tighten them up so that your skates fit snugly. This is particularly helpful if you have had the opportunity to try out several pairs of laces, or if you are shopping for a gift for a fellow hockey player. Being able to adjust the lace as needed is essential for creating the perfect fit for your skates. This is also where most hockey players establish the length of their lace, as shorter laces are generally more maneuverable and allow the skaters to turn more sharply. Longer laces are great for stability, helping the skaters maintain their balance while gliding across the ice. When in doubt, go for the longer lace to avoid any trouble while playing the game you love.
Comfort
Comfort is an integral part of any pair of skates. This includes things such as the cushioning of the in-skates as well as the smoothness of the skate’s surface. In order to achieve the perfect balance between comfort and performance, the right combination of hockey laces needs to be considered. For example, if you are on the lookout for a comfortable pair of hockey skates then you might want to avoid choosing a product that features a hard plastic surface. Instead, you can opt for a pair of roller skates with a gel cushioning in the in-skates. This will help you to achieve that elusive balance between comfort and performance needed for the perfect pair of hockey laces.
Durability
Another important factor to take into consideration when choosing the right pair of hockey laces is the durability of the product. This includes aspects such as the strength of the materials used as well as the construction of the product itself. In general, the stronger the materials used, the more durable the product. This is particularly relevant if you are planning to play hockey professionally in countries such as Canada or the United States. In those instances, the pairs of skates you choose need to be able to withstand a lot of wear and tear so that you can continue playing the game you love. In addition to that, the construction of the product also needs to be assessed, including things such as how the lace is attached to the skate, and whether or not it is waterproof or breathable. If you are uncertain about the durability of a particular product, then you might want to opt for an alternative that features the same performance, but with more durability.
How Do You Want The Lace To Feel?
The last thing to consider is how you want the lace to feel as you pull it through your skate. This is an element that can vary from one pair of skates to another, but it generally refers to the surface texture of the lace you buy. If you are on the lookout for a specific feeling then you can choose a pair of skates that features a nylon mesh lace, which will give you that velvety soft feel that you are looking for. Alternatively, you can opt for a lace that is made of synthetic materials, such as polyester or acrylic. Although these laces are less expensive than those made of wool, they are much less eco-friendly. If you are on a tight budget, then opting for a pair of skates that features a nylon or mesh lace might be the way to go.
When choosing the right pair of hockey laces it is important to bear in mind the various aspects that can affect the outcome. Before establishing a preference it is always advisable to try out different pairs of laces, or to consult with an experienced skater who can advise you on which ones to choose. Once you have found the right pair of laces, you can rest assured that you have chosen one of the best products available for the game you love.