Are you ready to invest in your very first pair of figure skates? Having your own pair of figure skates is a great idea if you plan on skating regularly. Plus, it’ll save you money from rentals in the long run, and you’re likely to feel more comfortable and progress faster on the ice. However, with so many different brands, styles, and models of figure skates on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which skates would suit your needs best. When it comes to figure skating, choosing the right pair of skates is crucial. While you may not need the same specialized features that competitive skaters look for, it’s still important to invest in a pair of skates that fit your feet properly and provide adequate comfort and support. Ill-fitting skates can not only hinder your performance but also lead to discomfort and even injuries on the ice. That’s why we recommend getting your feet measured professionally to find the right size and model for your specific needs. Check out Figure Skating Boutique’s boot fitting assistant if you need help finding your perfect skate fit! Additionally, purchasing figure skates from a reputable seller is equally important. Authenticity and quality can make a significant difference in the performance and durability of your skates. Shopping from a reputed seller like Figure Skating Boutique guarantees that the skates are genuine and manufactured to meet the standards set by the sport. Plus, you’ll receive customer support and after-sales service to ensure that you have a reliable point of contact for any questions or concerns after your purchase. How to Care for Your Skates Now that you have purchased your first pair of figure skates, it’s time to learn how to take care of them. Like any high-end sporting equipment, figure skates require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in top shape. Here are our top tips on how to keep your figure skates in optimum condition. Sharpen Your Skates Skate sharpening is an essential part of any maintenance routine. Skates need to be sharpened periodically to maintain their ability to cut and grip the ice, which gives the skater the ability to create deep edges, control their movement in the rink, and feel stable on the ice. Jumps, spins, transitions, and footwork all feel easier when performed with sharp blades. Given the importance of keeping your skates sharp, it is essential to have your skates sharpened by a professional. Most skating shops have a skilled technician in-house who can assess the condition of your blades and provide the appropriate level of sharpening based on your skating style and preferences. They will have the expertise and specialized equipment to make sure your skates are sharpened correctly and evenly. Use a Skate Guard It’s important to avoid walking on the ground or floor with your ice skate blades, as they can get damaged or become dull faster. Instead, use a skate guard whenever you’re off the ice. They are designed to cover the blades when you’re not skating on the ice and provide a protective barrier between the blade and the floor. Skate guards are available in various materials, including rubber and hard plastic, and can be easily attached to your skates. Just make sure to take them off before going on the ice! Invest in Blade Covers In addition to skate guards, blade covers are another valuable investment to keep your figure skates in the best condition possible. Blade covers are made of soft fabric that provide extra protection for the blades. They absorb moisture and prevent rust, which can be detrimental to the performance and lifespan of the blades. Plus, it can be dangerous to transport your skates in your skating bag uncovered, so be sure to cover your skate while travelling with them. Keep Your Skates Dry Moisture and rust are the number one cause of figure skate degradation. That’s why we always advise skaters to thoroughly dry their skates after training and leave them to air-dry overnight. After every skating session, you should take your skates off and carefully dry your blades, sole, and boot with a towel. When you’ve returned home, take your skates from your skating bag and let them air-dry in a dry, cool room. If you plan to store your skates away for the season, cover the blades with absorbent blade covers instead of skate guards, as they can hold moisture and cause rust over time. Maintain the Laces It’s important to have the right length of lace in your skates at all times. Laces that are too long can become a tripping hazard if they drag on the ice. On the other hand, laces that are too short can cause improper lacing, which eventually puts stress on the boot and can lead to premature breakdown. Finally, be sure to check the condition of your laces regularly. Small tears can lead to big rips easily, so it’s important to have some spare laces on-hand, just in case. Change your laces out regularly, as they can get worn and won’t hold your foot in the skates as tightly. Contact the Figure Skating Experts at Skating Boutique Looking for more skate care tips and products? Figure Skating Boutique has everything you need to keep your skates in optimal condition. Whether you’re a beginner or an all-star competitor, find all your skate care essentials here! As one of North America’s top skating stores with over 20 years of expertise in the figure skating industry, we are here to help you find what you need to succeed on the ice. For all your figure skating needs, visit our website or call us at 866-957-0396 today!
