How to Fit and Buy Figure Skates
Winter is an ideal time to get out and enjoy a variety of fabulous sports, with skating being one of the most popular. Thanks to the quantity of indoor and outdoor rinks open at that time of year, it isn’t hard to find a place to enjoy the activity. If you’re new to the sport and are looking to pick up your very first pair of figure skates, there are some things you’ll want to keep in mind during the buying process. This will help ensure you get the perfect fit, allowing you to enjoy the activity to its fullest.
If the Boot Fits
The only way you’ll be able to tell if the figure skate fits properly is to try it on. While it’s very convenient and often more cost-effective to shop online, it’s a good idea to at least try the brand that you are eyeing on in person. At least you will know what size to watch for online.
With figure skates you want to buy a pair that is anywhere from half to a size and a half smaller than your shoe size. The skate needs to be snug and fit tight like a glove does. Just like with shoes the boot width also varies, so again this is why it’s helpful to try them on.
When trying on the skates you will want to wear just one pair of socks, rather than layers. Opt for one pair that is warm, such as a thermal sock. Now keep in mind this is the type of sock you’ll need to wear with the skate moving forward.
Leather vs. Synthetic Materials
Another question you’ll want to ask yourself is whether you want a pair of leather or synthetic material skates. The older style skates were all leather, both inside and out. While that may seem like a good thing, it actually made the boot quite heavy. Today’s skates tend to combine a variety of the two materials giving them durability and making them lightweight.
Where the weight really matters is if you plan on taking up the sport on a professional basis, and learning how to do jumps. Obviously, you would want a skate that is as lightweight as possible when performing these tricks.
What Level Are You?
If you do happen to be a beginner in figure skating, then it’s best to look for entry level figure skates. These are meant for people who plan on skating as a recreational activity only and who are new to the sport. These tend to be softer and more comfortable in general, which makes for a much nicer introduction to the sport.
Think of it as an Investment
The great thing about figure skates is that if you are just using them for recreational activity you can expect to get many years out of them. Taking the time to ensure they fit well and are the right type for your level will mean you are making an investment purchase that you’ll feel happy about in the years to come.