The first time shopping for hockey skates, things can get confusing. There are so many brands and types, different choices and considerations that picking a single pair can be tough. With a bit of research and a good salesperson, it's possible to find the right pair every time.
Goalies are different from everyone else on the ice. Not just because they stop frozen rubber with their bodies, but because they use different gear. Unlike regular players, goalies need different things in their skate. They need a larger, more stable surface to help them stop pucks and opposing players. They need less padding in the boot because they've got so much more they pull on over them. And they need to be able to bend at the ankle in more than just one direction. Their footwear reflects these needs, looking nothing like what's on anyone else's feet.
Everyone else on the team wears a more normal type of skate. The blade is usually attached to the boot the whole way along, curving as it goes. The boot itself usually has reinforced sections around the toes, ankles, and heel, to protect the foot from flying pucks. Each player has a specific fit and style they prefer, but for the most part, they look the same.
Depending on position, players often want a different curve on their blade. The curve, and where it peaks, determines where the players center of balance will be. New players, who may not know what they're doing and often have bad balance, will have a much longer section with little to no curve, and the peak at the center. Other players may prefer less metal on the ice, and a more extreme curve.
Another place to choose is the ankle. It is possible to get a boot with so much padding and support in the ankle that the muscles don't need to do anything. That's dangerous, not only because it requires lacing the boot very tight, which can cut off blood flow to the feet, but also because less strong muscles are more likely to cause an injury. Protection for ankles is still important, and soft ankle areas can be just as bad as too much support.
Different styles of skating and types of player also prefer different amounts of padding in the boot. Those who skate without socks so they are more connected with the surface of the ice may not want much padding. Players who've had a lot of injuries or who have bony feet might want more padding. The best choice is the pair that feels best and allows the most natural stride. Too much padding can ruin that.
Higher end skate manufacturers also sometimes offer custom molding. They aren't custom boots, but rather standard ones that are heated to fit to a players feet. This allows them custom-fit boots, adding stability and reducing break-in time.
Once a person finds the right pair, shopping for hockey skates gets easier. While new styles are offered every year, popular styles live on with minor changes. It's just getting past the first pair that can be a challenge.
Goalies are different from everyone else on the ice. Not just because they stop frozen rubber with their bodies, but because they use different gear. Unlike regular players, goalies need different things in their skate. They need a larger, more stable surface to help them stop pucks and opposing players. They need less padding in the boot because they've got so much more they pull on over them. And they need to be able to bend at the ankle in more than just one direction. Their footwear reflects these needs, looking nothing like what's on anyone else's feet.
Everyone else on the team wears a more normal type of skate. The blade is usually attached to the boot the whole way along, curving as it goes. The boot itself usually has reinforced sections around the toes, ankles, and heel, to protect the foot from flying pucks. Each player has a specific fit and style they prefer, but for the most part, they look the same.
Depending on position, players often want a different curve on their blade. The curve, and where it peaks, determines where the players center of balance will be. New players, who may not know what they're doing and often have bad balance, will have a much longer section with little to no curve, and the peak at the center. Other players may prefer less metal on the ice, and a more extreme curve.
Another place to choose is the ankle. It is possible to get a boot with so much padding and support in the ankle that the muscles don't need to do anything. That's dangerous, not only because it requires lacing the boot very tight, which can cut off blood flow to the feet, but also because less strong muscles are more likely to cause an injury. Protection for ankles is still important, and soft ankle areas can be just as bad as too much support.
Different styles of skating and types of player also prefer different amounts of padding in the boot. Those who skate without socks so they are more connected with the surface of the ice may not want much padding. Players who've had a lot of injuries or who have bony feet might want more padding. The best choice is the pair that feels best and allows the most natural stride. Too much padding can ruin that.
Higher end skate manufacturers also sometimes offer custom molding. They aren't custom boots, but rather standard ones that are heated to fit to a players feet. This allows them custom-fit boots, adding stability and reducing break-in time.
Once a person finds the right pair, shopping for hockey skates gets easier. While new styles are offered every year, popular styles live on with minor changes. It's just getting past the first pair that can be a challenge.
About the Author:
Pro Hockey Life provides an extensive inventory of hockey sticks including the latest in hockey equipment, hockey equipment, apparel and memorabilia.
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