Skates and Apparel

 

Buying the proper skates for your child is very important.  Skating is a demanding sport.  Even at the beginning levels, improperly fitted skates can cause blisters, and ankle and/or knee problems.  It is suggested that you go to a proper skate shop that specializes in ice-skating.  When fitting your child please follow these basic guidelines:

• Never over size your child. Make sure your child puts on the skate, and that you can squeeze no more than one finger down the back of the boot.  If the boot is slightly too big a thick in-sole will make the boot more comfortable and decreases the chance of blistering.
• Make sure you child can stand securely in the boot. If the ankle is tilting to one side or the other, the boot is likely too big or there is not enough support to the child’s weight.
• Moulded plastic skates are so inflexible that skaters will have problems bending their knees and ankles. The plastic gets very cold and stiff on the ice, making the skater’s feet cold as well.

Sharpening
It is suggested that you see a professional skate sharpener that will set the proper grind level for your skater.  A figure skating grind is very different than a hockey grind.  The stone used to sharpen it also is very different.  A figure skating blade has various rockers (curves of the blade) and an aggressive pick depending on the level of the skater.  Skates should be sharpened after about 10-15 hours of ice.  Your coach could recommend someone to you.  Locally, David Hollows 705-457-0709. 

 

Care of Skates
Skate guards should be worn when walking to and from the ice.  Guards should be removed from the blades when the skates are stored to prevent the blades from rusting.  Blades should always be dried with a cloth/towel after each wearing.  Terry cloth blade covers should be put on the blades until the next wearing to absorb any extra moisture and protect the blades. 

 

Skating Apparel
The arena can be very cold!  It is suggested that skaters dress warmly and in layers.Outfit: Leggings/yoga pants/snowpants or skating dress/skirt/shorts with tights along with a sweater or jacket and mittens/gloves.  No jeans please.

 

Skate Canada states that all CANskate participant, up to and including Stage 5, must wear a CSA Approved Hockey Helmet.  Skaters without an approved helmet will not be allowed on the ice.  Used helmets are acceptable if they are fitted properly and are not cracked or damaged.  STAR and Senior skaters may choose to wear Ice Halo or Crasche head gear.  Although not a replacement for a helmet they are “better than nothing.”