Expert: Dina Solimini - 9/30/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi, my son (8) has been playing goalie for two years now, and I finally purchased him goalie skates. I waited because I believe he needs to be a strong skater before he moves on to the goalie skates.

We are having trouble keeping the leg pads from twisting at the bottom near his skates. The pads are moving (twisting) on his legs, which is causing him difficulty. We did not experience this problem with the regular hockey skates, so I am confused as to why it happens with the goalie skates.

I have tried tying the lace (toe area) in different ways, but nothing is working. Any suggestions or ideas as to why this is happening?

ANSWER: Hi Chris
I agree most definately....before goalie skates are introduced, the goalie needs to be a strong skater and learn the position. I honestly would have waited till Squirt or Peewee year to introduce the skates. The skates can be much more of a hinderance than the lower leg pad issue you are telling me about.
This is unique, so I am thinking that the ankle area is not fitting to the skate length b/c it is either too long or too short. My guess is the toe/ ankle area of the pad is too short as goalie skates tend to be long and clunky. Try anchoring the last strap underneath the skate towards the back.
Let me know how this works.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi, we tried anchoring the strap toward the back, and this seemed to help. I think that the skates may be a bit big for my son, so I am putting them on the shelf for a year or so. My plan was to get him acclimated to goalie skates as a Mite (final year) and move to them in Squirts.

I am very forceful in the fact that a young goalie needs to learn to skate first--which is uncommon where my son plays. The mite goalies under him--lower level--have goalie skates, and they can barely move on them.

I appreciate your feedback, and I'll try them again in a year. He enjoys skating out in the summer--which is another plus because he gets a break from goaltending, and he improves his skating.

I think the issue with the twisting has to do with his skinny legs and his pads--which are 24 inch--and the skates are designed for a larger leg and pad. Could this be the case?

Thanks again!

Answer
Hi Chris

Yes I think his little legs along w/ size of skates and pad are the issue. I think it is great that you are going to put the skates away at least for another year. Also, I think it is important for kids to be versatile and know the other positions too.
Unfortunately, people get so caught up in the equipment that they don't realize it is more of a hindrance to the little goalie.