About the Skates

Figure Skates -

What You Should Know

In order for one to skate properly, boots must be fitted correctly, for when the boots do not fit, the ankles turn in and the skater finds it difficult to stand on the blade and support the foot and leg. The practice of buying boots too large in the hope that a child may grow into them is regarded as undesirable. It is far better to buy boots that fit, take care of them properly, and sell them when they are outgrown. There is generally a market for used children's skates.

To fit correctly, the heels of the boot should fit snugly so that the heels of the skater do not slip up and down in the boots. The boots should also fit snugly at the instep and at the ankle. However, around the toes, the boots should be roomy enough for the toes to wiggle in order to maintain good circulation.

Boots should also be laced properly. From the toe to the instep the boot should be laced loosely: from the instep to just below the ankle bone the boot should be laced tightly, as shown in the following sketches. Some skaters find that it is helpful to tie a surgeon's know - wrapping the lace twice around itself and pulling the ends tightly - at the ankle.

From the ankle to the top of the boot, the laces should be loose enough to insert the thumb in the back of the boot. If this practice is followed, there will be enough space to allow the leg to move without cramping, and the muscles will be free to move when the knee is bent in skating.

The "toe-pic" of the figure skating blade is used mainly to execute spins and jumps.

Skate blades are the single most important part of a skater's equipment and should be cared for. Skate guards should be worn from the location where the boots are put on to the ice surface. Although some indoor rinks have rubber mats which may make guards unnecessary if kept clean, other rinks may have cement, gravel, and dirt surfaces which are injurious to blades, and guards should be worn for protection.

When skates are taken off, the guards should be removed and the blades wiped dry to prevent rust. Skates should be stored WITHOUT guards. Many skaters use "soakers" (terry cloth blade protectors) when transporting and storing skates.