How to choose skates for adults and children in 2025-2026
Ice skating is one of the most popular winter activities. Many people just like to race on the ice for their own pleasure, but for others it is a professional sport. And although skates can be rented at almost any rink in the park, it is better to purchase your own, taking into account all individual characteristics. What to look for when choosing skates for adults and children in 2025-2026 and how to avoid injury on ice, Izvestia tells.
What kind of skates are there: the main types
Skates are divided into four main types, each of which is designed for specific purposes. The convenience and technical feasibility of certain elements directly depend on their choice.
Figure skates. They are easily recognizable by the long serrated blade on the toe. The teeth are necessary for performing thrusts, rotations and other elements of figure skating. The shoe of such skates is usually made of genuine leather and has high rigidity for reliable ankle support.
Hockey skates. They are characterized by a short, light and durable blade without teeth, which ensures high maneuverability and speed. The shoe is reinforced with plastic inserts to protect the foot from puck and stick impacts. There are models of varying degrees of rigidity, aimed at players of different levels of training.
Fitness skates (or walking skates) are a lightweight version of figure skates. They are not designed for complex sports elements and are designed for calm skating on ice. They often have increased comfort and have insulated boots. Great for beginners, kids, and those who ride for fun, without tricks.
Sliding skates. They are equipped with a Smart Size sliding design that allows you to adjust the size. They are suitable for children with growing legs (they increase by an average of 2-4 sizes), as well as for adults who want to be able to adjust the size, for example, under thick wool socks.
Key parameters for choosing skates
In addition to the type of skates, it is important to evaluate their technical characteristics, which affect the fit and comfort. First of all, the quality of the material and the blade. The durability, weight, and degree of foot support depend on them.
Shoe material. The classic choice for figure skates is genuine leather. It is durable, fits the leg well and "remembers" its shape. Modern models are often equipped with fur, which allows you to ride in thin socks. Hockey and sliding models use mainly plastic and thermoplastic, which provide maximum rigidity and protection.
The stiffness of the shoe. Another critical parameter, which is measured on a scale from 50 to 150 units (some manufacturers use the designations Soft, Medium and Stiff). For beginners, it is better to choose medium-hard skates. For advanced and professional athletes, very rigid boots are needed to ensure accurate transfer of force to the blade.
Blades and type of sharpening. Inexpensive carbon steel or stainless steel models are suitable for amateur skating. Professional blades are made of alloy or high-carbon steel with high hardening to keep sharpening longer and withstand loads. The quality of the steel also affects the wear resistance and the frequency of sharpening.
Lacing and velcro. The laces provide the best fixation by fitting snugly on the foot. For better reliability, it is recommended to choose impregnated laces that last longer and do not stretch. Velcro fasteners may seem more convenient for beginners, but they do not provide such a reliable fixation and can deform. Therefore, it is better when they go in addition to lacing.
It is important to take into account that artificial ice in closed areas, as a rule, has a softer and more uniform coating. It is considered "gentle" for the blades, as it contains fewer abrasive particles. This allows you to keep the sharpness of sharpening longer. Natural ice on outdoor skating rinks often contains microparticles of dust, dirt and reagents that act as an abrasive and significantly accelerate the blunting of the blades.
How to choose the right size of skates
Size error is the main cause of discomfort, pain, and calluses during riding. To avoid this, it is necessary to carefully study the manufacturer's size chart, and try it on in the afternoon, when the foot increases slightly in size. Otherwise, the algorithm for choosing skates is the same for adults and children.
The first step is to accurately measure the foot. Put your foot on a piece of paper and trace its contour, holding the pencil strictly vertically. Next, measure the distance from the extreme point of the heel to the tip of the longest toe. The resulting length in centimeters should be compared with the size chart of a particular manufacturer, since the grid may vary from brand to brand.
The second important parameter is completeness. Even with the right length, a model that is too narrow or wide will cause problems. The circumference of the foot is measured at its widest point, and then compared with the table. Manufacturers usually indicate completeness with letters: C (narrow), D (medium), E/EE/G (wide).
The third stage is fitting. You should wear the socks you plan to ride in and lace up your shoe tightly. After lacing, you should stand in your skates for a few minutes, slightly bending your knees. In this position, the heel should not detach from the sole or move up, and the foot should not dangle or be compressed.This test ensures that the skate will securely lock the foot during dynamic skating.
Rules for choosing children's skates
For a child, skates should be chosen strictly according to size. Buying "for growth" is unacceptable — it leads to incorrect foot placement, discomfort and increases the risk of injury.
The type of skates depends on the age and level of training of the child. For example, skates with double blades are suitable for the youngest. For older children, there are sliding models that allow you to adjust the size as the foot grows. Professional skates are necessary for those who practice figure skating or hockey.
Skates must be stable and secure. To choose the perfect pair, it is recommended to try on models from different manufacturers in the same price category and choose the most comfortable ones. Additionally, orthopedic or sports insoles can be purchased to improve foot comfort and support.
Injury prevention on ice
Comprehensive training and proper equipment are necessary for safe riding. Following simple rules will minimize the risk of sprains, bruises, and more serious injuries.
Warm-up. Before going out on the ice, it is necessary to warm up for 10-15 minutes. The warm-up includes exercises to warm up the muscles of the legs, back and joints. This prepares the body for exertion and improves coordination.
Training with a trainer or instructor. A specialist will help you master the correct sliding and braking techniques, laying a reliable foundation. Self-study often leads to mistakes that are difficult to correct later, which increases the risk of falls as a result.
Protective equipment. Beginners and children are recommended to use protective equipment — helmet, knee pads and elbow pads. They are able to prevent most injuries from accidental falls. Even those who are confident on skates should not neglect protection, especially when mastering new and complex elements.
After skating, the skates must be dried and the blades thoroughly wiped with a dry cloth to remove moisture and dirt residues. This will prevent corrosion and extend the service life of the skates.
Earlier, Izvestia wrote that 26 ice rinks will open in the capital in the winter at the Moscow Seasons festival grounds.
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