You can’t go wrong with buying a pair of ice skates before the first snowstorm of the season hits. Having your own skates makes it easier to do everything from playing junior hockey to simply goofing off at the local rink with a bunch of friends.
Finding the right ice skates is simple to do when you pick out a pair at Schuylkill Valley Sports. No one can match our selection of popular brands like Easton and American Athletic Shoe Company. We also stock multiple types of ice skates.
Once you have decided on buying yourself a pair of skates, you should consider a few guidelines for making the best choice for you.
Consider your needs
No two ice skates are alike. Figure skates, for example, have a toe pick to help with jumps when you are doing a routine. Hockey skates, on the other hand, do not have this feature. Choose a skate that fits your needs for your chosen sport or activity. Factor in wear and tear it will get through use and buy one that offers high durability and performance.
Get the right fit
Comfort matters as much as anything with skates. Avoid selecting a skate that is too big or one that is too tight. Correct skates sizes are about 1 to 1 ½ sizes smaller than your regular shoe. You want your heel to hold tight to the boot while skating. You also need enough padding to protect your ankles and enough room for your big toe at the end of the skate. Lace them up all the way to get an accurate feel for how they will fit on the ice.
Calculate the cost
Ice skates vary in cost, depending on what kind you want. Recreational skates can range in price from $40 to $60. Mid-range skates can go from $80 to $150. Professional quality skates can cost as much as $600 depending on the brand. Higher cost professional skates tend to be more durable and produce higher performance because they are used more frequently.
Have fun on the ice!