To check if ice hockey skates are properly sharpened, you can follow these steps:
- Look for even edges: Inspect the edges of the blades on both skates. They should appear even and have a consistent level of sharpness from heel to toe.
- Check for nicks or chips: Run your fingers along the edges of the blades to feel for any rough spots, nicks, or chips. These imperfections can affect your ability to maneuver on the ice.
- Examine the hollow: The skate blades have a curved hollow groove in the middle, which impacts your stability and maneuverability. If the hollow is too shallow or too deep, it could affect your performance.
- Test your balance: Put on your skates and stand upright on a flat surface. Pay attention to how well-balanced you feel. If one skate feels significantly different from the other or you feel wobbly, it may indicate uneven sharpening.
- Observe your glide: Go for a short glide on the ice to assess how the skates perform. If one skate feels slower or you're experiencing difficulty with turning or stopping, it could be a sign of improper sharpening.
Remember, if you're unsure about the quality of the blade sharpening, it's always a good idea to consult a professional skate sharpener. They can provide expert advice and ensure your skates are properly sharpened for optimal performance on the ice.
Best Ice Hockey Skates in 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
CCM Jetspeed FT6 Pro Ice Hockey Skates, Senior (Width: Tapered; Size: 8.5 = 44)
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JETSPEED FT6 PRO ice hockey skates offer a comfortable, ready-to-play feel and unparalleled range of motion for optimal speed and performance on the ice.
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QUARTER PACKAGE: the one-piece speed boot with game ready fit stands for performance and acceleration, with Game Ready Fit for the perfect wrap to get a more direct energy transfer for faster steps and hit your opponents to puck every time
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INNER SHOE: Totaldri Pro + with polygia high performance moisture wicking material that keeps feet dry and skates lightweight, with superior odour protection. An additional EVA layer provides an excellent fit and comfort
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TENDON: Flex tendon with carbon improves freedom of movement and allows greater expansion in skating steps for more speed. Carbon insert for ultimate protection
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TONGUE: ADPT comfort tongue with FlexMotion and metatomic fit, lightweight moulded core, with ADPT memory foam that wraps the foot for ultimate fit and comfort
2
Rating is 5 out of 5
CCM Hockey Tacks AS-550 Senior Adult Ice Hockey Skates (Skate Size 8 (Shoe Size 9.5))
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3D Injected Boot Quarter Package: Ergonomic boot-shaping system for great comfort and new texturized finish for improved durability
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Stiffness 115: Solid core for great skating performance
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HD Microfiber: High resistance to wear while delivering major comfort and durability
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Felt Tongue: 5mm felt tongue with added foam for increased comfort and protection
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CCM Speedblade: Non-replaceable stainless steel blade with elevated holder for an increased attack angle
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
CCM Tacks AS-550 Senior Ice Hockey Skates
4
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
5th Element Stealth Ice Hockey Skates-13.0
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PREMIUM QUALITY - 5th Element Stealth Ice Hockey Skates enable you to light up the ice without burning a hole in your wallet. With a premium-quality stainless steel blade, ankle padding, and heel support, you are sure to blow away the competition. These recreational hockey skates are perfect for beginners or intermediates playing in leagues or outdoors on the pond.
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TRUE-TO-SIZE FIT - These skates fit true to your shoe size. With enough wiggle room around the toes but snug in the heel and midfoot, you will experience maximum support. Each skates padded footbed cradles your foot, giving you the most out of every run. Available in sizes 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13.
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MOISTURE-RESISTANT LINER - 5th Element Hockey Skate boot is all about performance with its moisture-resistant liner. Designed with comfort in mind, these skates boost performance in all conditions, allowing quick tight turns on the ice. Suitable for beginners to advanced skaters.
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REINFORCED OUTSOLE - The 5th Element Stealth Ice Hockey Skates come with a reinforced outsole that helps you maintain stability in the rink. Durable and lightweight, these skates will be a pleasure to skate with.
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
BOTAS - Draft 281 - Men's Ice Hockey Skates | Made in Europe (Czech Republic) | Color: Black, Size Adult 11
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Recommended use: for active athletes
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Upper: resistant synthetic in combination with PA fabric
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Lining: padded, synthetic material PENAT
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Blade: BOTAS ICEHAWK CARBON Ultra Steel white
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Recommended care: wipe clean after each use or wash lightly with water (no detergents!), remove insole and dry all at room temperature. Occasionally conserve the blade of the skate.
6
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
Jackson Ultima Softec Sport Men's/Boy's Recreational Hockey Skate - Mens Size 10
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Recreational skate with Thinsulate lining, nylon upper and tongue
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Factory sharpened leisure blade attached
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Mens (adult) Size 10 – Black
7
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
CCM Super Tacks 9350 Senior Ice Hockey Skates (8)
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Skate size is typically 1.5 sizes lower than US shoe size. Example if you wear a shoe size 10.5 you will be a skate size 9.
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CCM Hockey is constantly pushing the boundaries when it comes to ice hockey skate innovation and this time is no different with the CCM Super Tacks 9350 Senior Hockey Skates! Designed and manufactured to cater to a wide range of players, the Super Tacks 9350 Skates offer the complete package of performance, comfort, and efficiency.
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Starting out with the Quarter Package of the Super Tacks 9350 Skates, a Reinforced 3D Injected boot is a new ergonomic boot-shaping system that provides great comfort and durability. This skate also comes with a stiffness performance index of 125 which makes this skate a solid core for a good skating experience.
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Up at the tongue of the Super Tacks 9350 skates, a 7mm Felt tongue with embossed lace-bite protection is utilized to provide comfort and protection in this area. Next on the liner, an HD Microfiber is used specifically to provide a comfortable fit that is designed to be highly resistant to wear.
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Finally down on the bottom section of the Super Tacks, the footbed is CCM’s very own footbed designed to provide further support and comfort for the goaltender. Flipping around to the outside to the holder and runner, CCMs Speedblade is a non-replaceable, pre-sharpened stainless steel blade with an elevated holder for an increased attack angle.
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
CCM Super Tacks AS3 Ice Hockey Skates Junior (Width: EE, Size: 6.5)
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The CCM Super Tacks AS3 Ice Hockey Skates are designed to give you maximum performance
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Designed with elements that favor direct energy transfer and a tighter, more comfortable fit.
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The replaceable TriTech Flex Tongue offers pro-level protection and comfort but importantly, provides a new way to customize the skate
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The quick and secure attachment gives players the opportunity to buy one of three aftermarket tongues that can help adjust the fit and feel of the boot like nothing else before
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With the boot naturally hugging the foot, CCM used thicker foams than in the past to increase step-in comfort
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
CCM Super Tacks 9360 Senior Ice Hockey Skates (7)
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CCM Hockey is constantly pushing the boundaries when it comes to ice hockey skate innovation and this time is no different with the CCM Super Tacks 9360 Senior Hockey Skates! Designed and manufactured to cater to a wide range of players, the Super Tacks 9360 Skates offer the complete package of performance, comfort, and efficiency.
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Starting out with the Quarter Package of the Super Tacks 9360 Skates, a Reinforced 3D Injected boot is a new ergonomic boot-shaping system that provides great comfort and durability. This skate also comes with a stiffness performance index of 125 which makes this skate a solid core for a good skating experience.
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Up at the tongue of the Super Tacks 9360 skates, a 7mm Felt tongue with embossed lace-bite protection is utilized to provide comfort and protection in this area. Next on the liner, an HD Microfiber is used specifically to provide a comfortable fit that is designed to be highly resistant to wear.
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Finally down on the bottom section of the Super Tacks, the footbed is CCM’s very own footbed designed to provide further support and comfort for the goaltender. Flipping around to the outside to the holder and runner, CCMs Speedblade is a non-replaceable, pre-sharpened stainless steel blade with an elevated holder for an increased attack angle.
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Skate size is typically 1.5 sizes lower than US shoe size. Example if you wear a shoe size 10.5 you will be a skate size 9.
What substances should be avoided when cleaning ice hockey skate blades?
When cleaning ice hockey skate blades, it is advisable to avoid substances that could potentially damage the blades or affect their performance. Some substances to avoid include:
- Harsh chemicals: Avoid using strong solvents, detergents, or abrasive cleaners, as they may corrode or damage the blade's surface.
- Bleach: Bleach is a corrosive substance that can erode the metal surface of the skate blades.
- Vinegar: While vinegar is often used as a natural cleaning agent, its acidic nature may corrode the blades over time.
- Saltwater: Exposure to saltwater can lead to rust formation on the skate blades. It is best to wipe off any saltwater immediately after skating.
- Excessive water: Though some moisture can be beneficial to prevent rust, excessive water or soaking the skate blades for prolonged periods may promote rust or cause damage.
It is generally recommended to use a dry or damp cloth to wipe off any dirt or moisture from the skate blades after each use. Additionally, using a blade guard or cover when not in use can help protect the blades and prevent accidental damage.
What are the risks of using skate blades with nicks or burrs?
Using skate blades with nicks or burrs can pose several risks:
- Reduced Performance: Nicks or burrs on the skate blades can decrease the overall performance of the skates. They can disrupt the glide by causing friction and resistance on the ice, making it more difficult to attain speed and maneuver effectively.
- Decreased Control: Skating with blades that have nicks or burrs can affect your ability to control your movements properly. These imperfections can cause your skates to catch or grab the ice unexpectedly, leading to instability or unexpected changes in direction.
- Injury Risk: Skating with blades that have nicks or burrs increases the risk of falling or experiencing accidents. The uneven surface of the blades can catch on the ice suddenly, causing you to lose balance and potentially injure yourself. The risk of injuries such as sprains, strains, or even more severe accidents like fractures or head injuries may increase.
- Unpredictable Maneuvers: Nicks or burrs on skate blades can make your skating maneuvers less predictable and reliable. For example, attempting spins or jumps with blades that have imperfections can result in inconsistent rotations or unstable landing, increasing the potential for falls or other accidents.
- Damage to the Ice: Blades with nicks or burrs can also cause damage to the ice surface of the skating rink. These imperfections can leave grooves or marks on the ice, affecting the quality and smoothness of the surface for other skaters.
Therefore, it is important to regularly maintain and sharpen skate blades to ensure optimum performance, control, and safety while skating.
How to check if ice hockey skates are properly sharpened?
Checking the sharpness of ice hockey skates is crucial for optimal performance and safety on the ice. Here are some steps to help you determine if your skates are properly sharpened:
- Visual Inspection: Start by examining the blades of your skates for any visible defects or inconsistencies. Look for nicks, dents, or unusual wear patterns. Ideally, the edges should be straight and symmetrical.
- Run Your Fingers Along the Edges: Gently run your fingers along the edges of each blade. They should feel smooth and consistent without any noticeable roughness or unevenness. If you detect any bumps, ridges, or irregularities, it may indicate an improper sharpening.
- Blade Alignment: Place your skates on a flat surface, such as a countertop. Look down the length of the blades from the heel towards the toe. Both blades should appear parallel and aligned. If there is a noticeable deviation, it might indicate uneven sharpening.
- Balance Test: When wearing your skates, stand with your feet hip-width apart on a flat surface. Your weight should be evenly distributed over both skates. If you feel yourself leaning to one side or losing balance easily, it could be a sign of uneven sharpening.
- Sliding Test: Find a clean, dry patch of ice and glide with your skates. Pay attention to how smoothly and controlled you can skate. Properly sharpened skates will allow you to skate effortlessly and maintain balance. If you're experiencing difficulty with turning, stopping, or gripping the ice, it may indicate a need for re-sharpening.
- Sound Test: As you skate, listen for a consistent scraping sound from both blades. If you hear any irregular noises like grinding, scraping, or excessive vibration, it may suggest an issue with the sharpening.
If you have any doubts or concerns about the sharpness of your skates, it's best to consult a professional skate sharpener. They have the knowledge, experience, and equipment required to provide an accurate assessment and proper sharpening if needed.
