If you’re enjoying recreational skating, taking lessons or practicing, you might not have thought much about what you wear on the ice. While ice skating competitions have strict dress codes and moderation, the same isn’t true for training or skating for fun. However, whether you’re just having fun with friends or are training for your next competition, it’s essential to be mindful of what you’re wearing. Of course, when it comes to figure skating apparel, it can be difficult to figure out what exactly you need. What is the difference between training and competition tights? How many layers do you really need to wear? What should you avoid when shopping? All of these are valid questions. In this blog, we’re not only going to answer them, but we’re going to break down the biggest do’s and don’ts you need to know when it comes to choosing what to wear on the ice. Figure Skating Apparel “Don’ts” 1. Don’t go for baggy or ultra-restrictive outfits Although baggy clothes are very comfortable, they pose a serious safety risk on the ice, as they can easily get caught in your skates. On the other hand, it’s also not in your best interest to wear extremely tight clothing like jeans or sweaters with a minimal range allowance. It will make performing moves much more difficult and also increase your chances of getting injured. 2. Don’t accessorize Necklaces and bracelets can become easily tangled, catch on your clothing, or just distract you and potentially cause a fall. Regarding skating, we highly recommend leaving your jewellery at home or in your bag to avoid damaging it—and yourself. 3. Don’t wear cotton Cotton off the ice is a very cozy and warm material to wear, especially in the colder months. However, on the ice, it’s the last thing you’ll want to be wearing. This type of fabric is specifically designed to absorb moisture and sweat, leaving you feeling wet, cold, and, above all, icky. We recommend wearing moisture-wicking materials, which we’ll cover shortly. Figure Skating Apparel “Do’s” Now that we’ve gone over what not to do in regard to your figure skating apparel, let’s get into the do’s you’ll want to keep in mind. 4. Do layer First things first, we all can agree that out there at the skating rink, it can get really cold. Layers are going to become your best friend when it comes to keeping you warm during training. Think thick tights under leggings or sweatpants, and long-sleeve T-shirts under cozy hoodies. To give you a better picture, let’s break the ideal outfit down layer by layer: Top Layers The first layer you wear should be a slim-fitted long-sleeve top made from technical fabrics. In the winter, you’ll want to opt for thermal fabrics with sweat-wicking capabilities that will help to keep your body temperature regulated. Alongside your thermal shirt, it’s a good idea to invest in a fleece-lined sweater or jacket that will keep you warm and yet is still flexible enough to move around in. If you don’t have any sweaters like this, look for quarter- or full-zip technical sweaters. Or, you could forego the sweater option altogether and go for a vest, which offers an even greater range of motion. As you’re skating, your body temperature will rise, so wearing a zip-sweater or vest will be easy to remove as you carry on with your training. Bottom Layers For the lower half of your body, what you wear will depend on the rest of your figure skating apparel. If you’re wearing a skating skirt or dress, the best item you can wear is a sturdy pair of figure skating tights. Compared to regular tights, this kind is specifically engineered to be more long-lasting, warmer, and offers even more protection on the ice. Figure skating tights can be broken down into two categories: competition tights and training tights. The main difference is that tights for training will be thicker due to their high denier count, and thus be more durable than competition tights. Competition tights will also be more shiny for aesthetic purposes, whereas training ones will have a matte finish. However, if you’re not wearing a dress or skirt while skating, then leggings, pants, or even both are what you’ll want to opt for on the ice. For male skaters, slim skating pants or ones with pleats made from high-quality, comfortable materials will be your best option. These types of pants typically also offer decent wind-repellent properties, which help ward off cold winds built up as you accelerate over the ice. If you are a male skater who is out on the ice training regularly, though, we highly recommend investing in professional skating trousers, as they are made of to move easily and can even be worn in a specific way to elongate your silhouette for competitions. For female skaters, look for leggings that are made from thick fabric and have some give to them so that you can perform the full range of necessary movements. It’s definitely also in your best interest to get a few pairs if you train several times a week to make sure you always have a fresh pair on hand. If you’re not a fan of leggings, try getting a pair of figure skating apparel pants; they will be even warmer and are also water-resistant. A little bonus tip is that you can wear tights directly under your pants or leggings for extra warmth and protection during training. Extremities Of course, we can’t forget about our fingers, ears, and toes, too. You’ll want a pair of thick socks, knit gloves, and definitely a hat, earmuffs, or a wide headband to keep your ears covered and protected. This all may sound like a lot, but failing to keep your body temperature properly regulated while you’re on the ice can lead to muscle cramps, numbness in your fingers or toes, and difficulty performing moves. 5. Do consider different brands When it comes to figure skating apparel, don’t settle for basic leggings and sweaters from your local mall. Instead, explore dedicated options that cater specifically to figure skaters. Taking the time to browse online will uncover numerous brands and boutiques that offer quality, stylish, and functional clothing designed to enhance your skating experience—all while staying within your budget. Stores like Figure Skating Boutique present a wide array of top brands, ensuring you find the perfect fit for both performance and style. If you ever feel unsure about which items to choose, our knowledgeable figure skating experts are eager to guide you in selecting what works best for you. 6. Do invest in quality figure skating apparel When it comes to figure skating, investing in high-quality apparel is essential for both performance and longevity. At Figure Skating Boutique, we pride ourselves on being a leading supplier of top-tier figure skating apparel, catering to skaters of all levels and ages—from recreational enthusiasts to competitive athletes. Our extensive collection is thoughtfully curated to meet the unique demands of the ice, offering everything from durable training tights to stylish competition wear. With our expertise and unwavering commitment to supporting skaters, we ensure that every piece provides maximum comfort, functionality, and style. Choosing Figure Skating Boutique means more than just purchasing clothing—it means gaining access to a team of knowledgeable professionals dedicated to helping you succeed on the ice. Whether you're seeking expert guidance on the best gear or looking for quality brands trusted by skaters worldwide, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your skating journey. Stay Warm and Skate On With Quality Figure Skating Apparel The right figure skating apparel is more than a wardrobe choice—it’s a vital part of your success on the ice. From layering with performance-driven fabrics to choosing durable tights and water-resistant pants, understanding what to wear can significantly enhance your safety, comfort, and performance. At Figure Skating Boutique, we combine unmatched expertise with a curated selection of top-quality gear to support skaters of all levels, from beginners to competitive athletes. For more information and for all your figure skating needs, call Figure Skating Boutique at 1-866-957-0396 or contact us online.
