Ice skating is a gateway to the world of bedazzled dresses, graceful spins, or hours of fun spent gliding around with your friends. Whatever your vice on the ice, we’re sure that by now, these winter sports have become more costly as the years go on and you progress in your field. One of the major expenses you want to be on the lookout for is your ice skates because, unfortunately, there are few items in life that last, especially those used frequently. Fret not, though, since we’re going to go over all the signs that point to you needing to buy a new pair of ice skates. Sign 1: Lack of Support When you’re out on the ice, focus on how the skates feel. Are they just as snug as the day you bought them, or are you noticing some flexing around the ankle area that has you on edge? This is a prominent indicator that it may be time to purchase a new pair of ice skates. Not switching out your current pair for a new set can lead to injuries such as blisters and sores later on. In more serious scenarios, it could even lead to a major injury if you go to land after a jump and your skates fail to provide the necessary support to hold you up. Sign 2: Blade Trouble The blades on your ice skates are the next place to inspect when deciding whether to purchase a new pair. You may have noticed that even after wiping the blades of your skates dry after a skating session, they’ve begun to develop rust regardless, and the problem isn’t going away. Or, perhaps even though you are dedicated to a routine of sharpening them, they get duller faster despite the upkeep. Both of these factors can lead to safety issues and reduce your ability to perform well. Sign 3: Visible Damage Signs of visible wear and tear on your skates are one of the easiest to spot. Of course, a few nicks and a scratch here or there shouldn’t have you immediately running to your nearest skate store. We’re talking about more severe indications. Thoroughly inspect your ice skates, specifically around the sides of the boot. This area will wear down the quickest due to the nature of movements typically carried out in the skating rink. If you’re having trouble spotting any signs, here’s a quick test you can try: Put your ice skates on and stand on them. Next, bend your knees and pay close attention to the part of the boot that flexes when doing so. When doing this exercise, you may notice the material there has become discoloured, thinner, or shows some major creasing. Sign 4: You’re Levelling Up Let’s say your child just got into their niche ice skating sport and got a good pair of basic ice skates. However, much to your surprise and delight, they’re advancing at a pace far faster than you had anticipated. Suddenly, the basic pair they’re wearing isn’t going to cut it anymore if they want to practice and perform more complex movements safely. In these cases, it is crucial to buy a new pair of ice skates that correspond with their skill level, even if their current pair is in good shape. We also encourage you to donate the previous pair of skates to your local second-hand store if they are still in good condition. Sign 5: You Train Hard and Often If you’re someone who only skates for the occasional fun winter activity, then replacing your skates is something you don’t need to think about for a few years at least. However, if you are into any sort of competitive ice skating sport and train a lot, you will need to factor in the cost of a new pair of skates more often than if you weren’t consistently training. Most of the items we use in life get worn down over time, and ice skates are no exception to this rule. It’s best to speak with a professional at your local ice skating store, such as Figure Skating Boutique, to get an estimate on how often you might need to buy new ice skates based on your training schedule. When you visit FSB, we can advise you on the current state of your skates and how much longer it will be before you will likely require a new pair. Based on your training schedule and habits, we can help you pick the next pair of skates that will help you excel on the ice and reach your ultimate personal best. Buying New Ice Skates Now that we’ve gone over all major points, and you’re aware of the signs that indicate that you need to buy new ice skates, let’s discuss a few tips you should keep in mind during the shopping process. Budget Sporting equipment typically isn’t cheap, especially if you’re buying brand-new skates. However, it’s good to set a budget you’re comfortable with so that when you go shopping, you can notify the salesperson, and they can help you find the pair that fits your monetary constraints. Our best advice is to go online beforehand and look at the average prices for ice skates in your area according to your sport, so you have a better idea of how much you might be spending. Another great way to stay on budget is to keep an eye out for deals and promotions. Many figure skating stores offer sales and discounts, especially around the holiday season. At Figure Skating Boutique, we offer some incredible deals around Black Friday and Christmas, making this an ideal time to replace your old, worn-out skates without breaking the bank. Brand Research Just as we know that hockey and figure skates are different, we should also be aware that brands differ as well. Look into the brands that are offered in your area and do your research before going out to the shops. Why is one brand more expensive? What is the typical longevity? When researching, remember to ask yourself these questions to help you along. This way, when you visit Figure Skating Boutique, you will be equipped with the basic knowledge needed and be able to ask specific questions to better understand what brand will be best for your needs. Fit and Feel Of course, what it all truly comes down to is how these ice skates feel once you’ve got them on. We recommend bringing along the socks you usually skate in and wearing them while trying skates. Be sure to lace them up and walk around in them to get a better feel for the ankle support, the fit, and if they’re comfortable or not. Don’t Wait, Replace Those Old Ice Skates With all these tips in mind, you’ll be able to spot all the signs of when it’s time to buy a new pair of ice skates. Of course, if you’re still unsure whether to buy a new pair, visit Figure Skating Boutique either in-store or online to discuss concerns or questions you may have. For more information and for all your figure skating needs, call Figure Skating Boutique at 1-866-957-0396 or contact us online.
