New skates often feel stiff and uncomfortable at first. This is particularly true for figure skates, which are designed to be stiffer than other types of skates. It’s very important to break your skates in properly for optimal performance and comfort later on. Taking the right approach to breaking in your skates also helps to prevent blisters and misery along the way. Whether you’re a beginner taking your first lessons or a competitive skater preparing for the season, the tips included in this blog will help you ease into your new boots with confidence and without agony. Patience Is Key for Breaking in Figure Skates It always takes time to break in new figure skates. Unfortunately, they won’t feel perfect immediately. The first few sessions on the ice will likely be a little uncomfortable, but this does not mean that you purchased the wrong pair of skates. Ultimately, you need to be patient with your new boots. Adopting the right mindset will help you get through the (temporary) discomfort that comes with breaking in figure skates. Remind yourself that this is part of the process and it’ll be worth it. In the blink of an eye, you will be gliding, jumping, and spinning easily and comfortably. It’s also helpful to remember that figure skates tend to take longer to mould to the shape of your foot because they are stiffer and more structured. This stiffness is essential to the jumps, spins, and intricate footwork required of figure skaters, even if it can be uncomfortable at times. Normal Skate Breaking in vs. A Poor Fit All that being said, there is a big difference between breaking in your new skates and being broken by them. Persistent pain, numbness, severe blisters, and pressure that doesn’t lessen with time are all signs that your skates may not have been fitted properly. For most skaters, breaking in new figure skates takes about 6–12 hours of ice time spread over several sessions (though higher-level stiff boots can take longer). If you’re still experiencing considerable discomfort beyond that point, then it’s time to take a closer look at your skates. The boot size, width, or shape is likely wrong for your foot. It's also possible that your arches and ankles aren’t adequately supported. Continuing to skate in ill-fitting boots can ruin your performance on the ice and even cause injuries. If your skates don’t fit, they don’t fit. No amount of “breaking in” will change that. Distinguishing the difference between normal adjustment and poor fit can feel tricky. The key is listening to your body. Minor discomfort should improve as you gradually increase the duration of your sessions. If it worsens, seek professional fitting advice. At the Figure Skating Boutique, our expert technicians can adjust your boots or recommend a better match, so you break in your skates without being broken by them. 7 Tips for Breaking in Figure Skates 1. Get the boots that fit Your skates will never be comfortable if they don’t fit your foot properly. That’s why the first and most essential step to skate fit is choosing the right pair of skates. Whenever possible, stop by the Figure Skating Boutique in Markham for professional assistance. One of our experts will help you find skates that fit your foot and match your skill level. If you’re unable to stop by in person, try our online Boot Fitting Assistant for professional advice on comfortable skates, wherever you are. 2. Invest in professional heat moulding You can’t skip the breaking-in process, but you can speed it up. Professional heat moulding helps your new skates form to the shape of your foot, so you can skip over some of the initial discomfort. It works by applying heat to the skate’s outer leather and inner lining, making them more malleable. Heat moulding is best left to the professionals. Just because online tutorials exist for DIY methods does not mean they should be attempted. “Baking” your skates at home can damage them permanently. 3. Start with short skating sessions. It takes at least six hours of total skate time to break in a new pair of skates. Consequently, you should not attempt to break your figure skates in over a single session. The resulting pain and blisters will leave you questioning if the pain and discomfort will ever stop. Instead of suffering unnecessarily, spread out the process over multiple short sessions ranging between 20 and 30 minutes. Consider taking a day to rest in between sessions if possible. 4. Wear the right socks Your socks can make or break your comfort on the ice. Choose thick, moisture-wicking skating socks that provide cushioning while preventing blisters. Make sure they fit snugly without bunching. Thick socks also help to stretch out the boots on the ice. 5. Pay attention to pressure points Breaking your skates in slowly allows you to identify hotspots and friction points and treat them accordingly. As you skate, pay attention to any areas where your boots rub or pinch. The ankles, heels, and arches are common spots. You can apply protective padding, like gel inserts or moleskin, to alleviate some of the pressure in these sore points. 6. Don’t lace them up all the way As you break in your new skates, avoid lacing up the top hooks. Tie the laces just below the top hooks instead. This allows for extra movement and flexibility around the ankles, which is very helpful during those first few sessions. You should still keep the lower part of the boot snug and secure to keep you safe on the ice. Additionally, try taking breaks every 15-30 minutes, re-tightening them to help your skates conform to your feet. 7. Perform flexibility exercises Movement helps break in your skates and create a comfortable fit. Practice movements that require you to bend your knees and ankles to help the skate materials adjust to your foot shape. The leather will soften and form to your foot faster. In addition to deep bending motions, try crossovers, one-foot glides, and edges. Contact the Experts at the Figure Skating Boutique At the Figure Skating Boutique, you’ll find a wide variety of new and used figure skates for all skill levels. You’ll also find helpful and knowledgeable experts, ready to guide you to the perfect pair of well-fitting skates. We’re happy to answer any questions on skate fit, maintenance, and performance specs. Additionally, our online boot fitting assistant is a fantastic resource for finding your perfect fit, even if you’re not able to visit our Markham location. For all your figure skating needs and more tips on finding the right skate fit, call Figure Skating Boutique at 1-866-957-0396 or contact us here.
