3D Fashions
SKATES
Nothing will dampen the joy of figure skating than having the feet flop from side to side in poorly fitted skates. With properly fitted skates that give good support, even the most uncoordinated individual can manage to stand up on skates. To acquire skates that are a good fit and offer proper support visit a store that specializes in figure skates with salespeople knowledgeable enough to help you choose the appropriate skate for your skating level. Keep in mind that while good skates help protect you from injury, poorly fitted skates will impede your progress and skating enjoyment. Skating boots should be stiff enough to prevent lateral motion (ankle flopping), while at the same time allow the flexing of the ankle enabling you to bend your knees while skating. Skating boots should feel firm but comfortable, but not be too big. Boots that permit the foot to slip around inside the skate will crease at the ankle (break down) prematurely and no longer provide the needed support. Also, filling up oversized skates with thick socks will lessen the support offered by properly fitted skates. Many of today's skating boots provide extra comfort with leather linings and "gel" padding that molds to each individual's foot.
In order to maneuver on the ice surface, one requires blades that are reasonably sharp. The blades of good skates are screwed (not riveted) to the boot soles so that different blades can be attached to meet the needs and activities of individual skaters. Less expensive freestyle blades are a good choice for beginners, while skaters that are performing jumps should choose blades with a reasonably competent set of toe picks. Blades designed for advance skaters, however, are definitely "over-kill" for beginner-intermediate skaters. Blades should be mounted by a skilled craftsperson. You will notice that at first only half of the available screw holes on the sole plate are used. This allows for future positioning adjustments, or as alterative fastening if the original holes become enlarged through wear.
Always use blade guards when walking around off the ice. Never let blades contact cement or metal. When you take off your skates, wipe boots and blades dry. Don't put blade guards back on, but use, instead, a pair of terry blade covers. These will absorb moisture that condenses on the blade once you move from the cold arena to a warmer climate. All leather skate boots and leather soles must be treated with a waterproofing product. The leather sole will be treated prior to the mounting of the blade. This waterproofing should be carried out each month during the skating season. After skating allow your skate boot to dry out naturally and not by placing over a heat source. With proper care of a well fitted skating boot, you should have many months of enjoyable skating.