Expert: Martial - 12/30/2003

Question
Hi Martial,

I received new hockey skates.  How do I break them in?  Do they need to be sharpened or are they ok right out of the box?  Any other tips I should know about?  I haven't really skated for a few years but I'm sure it will come back quickly.

Michael

Answer
Hi Michael...

Welcome back to ice hockey...  New skates can sometimes be a challenge -- depending on the ones you bought!!  

Notwithstanding -- a good way I like breaking them in is putting them on and off lotsa times!  The tigthening and loosening of the laces really softens the top part of the boot.  Make sure you loosen them fully - even removing laces from top 2-3 eyelets and pulling the tongue out ...  this is a good habit to form to get your skates to dry properly too!

For the ankle part - I like going up and down stairs with them on ---  flexing the ankle and the knee as much as possible in the process.  It's not only good for the skates but a great toner for the legs...  (Of course use skate guards and be careful!!  Wouldn't want you slipping and falling down a bunch of them...  at least not without your gear eh??!!!)

Most skates are not presharpened!  Unless you bought them at a sports store and specifically asked or were told they were sharp - then you'd be best to get them done.  It usually takes a good 4-5 sharpenings to get some rocker going on the blade anyway ...  unless you get a custom radius done.  So it wouldn't hurt getting them done again,  even if they did have a good edge.  

Skating IS like riding a bike --- indeed it will come back to you --- but remember - keep those knees and ankles bent --  that'll not only save your back - but give you more balance and stability!

Hope this helps!  if you have any other questions please feel free to ask away!  

In the meantime - have an ice day!

Regards,

Martial T.