As an artistic sport, figure skating is as much about skill and technique as artistry and presentation. When figure skaters glide across the ice, their movements are judged for their technical precision, grace and elegance. A crucial element of any female figure skater’s presentation on the ice is her figure skating dress. With the right design and fabric, a figure skating dress can be the perfect finishing touch to a routine that captures the judges’ attention and captivates the audience. Yet, with so many fabric options on the market, how do you know which is best? In this blog, we will explore different figure skating fabrics, their applications and the pros/cons of each to help you find the best fabric for your needs. Figure Skating Dresses Are Beautiful and Functional Figure skating dresses serve practical and aesthetic purposes. Functionally, it allows skaters to move freely and perform complex manoeuvres without restriction. Skaters need to be able to jump, turn, bend, stretch and generally move around the ice in their dresses. That’s why figure skating dresses typically incorporate lightweight and stretchy fabrics such as spandex and lycra. A well-fitted dress can enhance the skater’s lines and movements, accentuating their athleticism and movement on the ice. Beyond their practicality, figure skating dresses are also a form of artistic expression. They reflect the skater’s style, personality, and theme of performance. Whether it’s intricate embellishments or bold colours and patterns, the dress should evoke emotion, create an atmosphere, or portray a character that matches the music and overall narrative of the routine. Figure Skating Dresses Can Impact Competition Scores Did you know that a figure skating dress can affect a skater’s overall score? In competitive figure skating, every detail matters, including the skater’s costume. Judges assess not only the technical elements of the performance but also its artistic interpretation and presentation. A well-designed and visually appealing figure skating dress can leave a lasting impression on the judges and influence their scoring decisions. Conversely, a poorly chosen or ill-fitting dress can detract from the skater’s performance and negatively impact their overall score. Choosing the Right Fabric For A Figure Skating Dress The trick to selecting the perfect mix of fabrics is to find a balance between your style, the competition guidelines and the requirements of your routine. Here are some commonly used figure skating fabrics: Spandex/Lycra Lycra or spandex blends are common for figure skating dresses because of their stretchiness and ability to conform to the body. These fabrics are well known for their elasticity and ability to expand without losing integrity. Skaters will find that spandex blends offer great freedom of movement, allowing them to execute jumps, spins and spirals without restrictions. Spandex dresses are also very lightweight and breathable. It makes them ideal for intense training sessions. However, they may lack the same level of sparkle and “wow factor” as dresses made from other materials. Mesh Mesh fabric is often used as an overlay or inset in figure skating dresses to add visual interest and breathability. When strategically placed, mesh panels can create visual illusions and enhance the overall design of the dress. However, mesh is a delicate fabric prone to snagging, so skaters should be cautious when handling or storing dresses with this fabric. Lace This material is ideal for adding a romantic and elegant touch to a figure skating dress. People incorporate it in sleeves, bodices and overlays to create intricate patterns and texture. Lace dresses naturally exude femininity and grace. However, they can be delicate and require special care to prevent snagging and tearing. Chiffon Chiffon is a lightweight, airy fabric that adds a delicate and ethereal quality to figure skating dresses. People use it in sleeves, skirts and overlays to create movement and fluidity on the ice. Chiffon dresses usually feature graceful draping and flowing silhouettes to give a sense of romance and elegance. However, chiffon is prone to wrinkling and requires steaming or ironing to maintain its appearance. Chiffon is also a delicate fabric that must be handled with care to avoid tearing or snagging. Velour Velour is a classic choice for figure skating dresses. Its soft texture and luxurious appearance make it a favourite among skaters who want to make a statement on the ice. Velour dresses often feature intricate embellishments like crystals and sequins to add to their glamour. However, velour can be heavy and less breathable than other fabric options, making it unsuitable for long hours of training or competition. Contact the Figure Skating Dress Professionals Searching for the perfect figure skating dress for your next competition? As one of North America’s top skating stores with over 20 years of expertise in the figure skating industry, Figure Skating Boutique is here to help you find what you need to succeed on the ice. Shop our extensive collection of figure skating dresses and apparel online! For more information, call us at 866-957-0396 or contact us here.
