AboutMarlene Bruland Expertise Have been an Artistic USARS Roller Figure Skating Coach (Quad) since 1954 in the Northwest Region, coaching figures, freestyle, pairs, dance, creative solo and Precision Team events, and was a former competitive skater and national placewinner. Holds a Gold Medal Proficiency Test in Dance Skating.
Experience Has been teaching for 52 years in the Northwest, coaching many National Winners in Freestyle, Dance, Figures, Creative Solo and Precision Team skating. I hold a Gold Medal Proficiency Test in Dance skating and coached a skater who placed 3 times in 4 World competitions and she also was the Pan Am Champion in Ladies Freestyle. I have coached 5 US National Bronze Medal Precision Teams who participated in 3 World Championships.
Expert: Marlene Bruland Date: 9/12/2003 Subject: buying new skates
Question Hello. I have a 12 year old son who is a free style singles skater. He has always bought used skates because his feet are growing and they are so expensive. I would like to get him a good, but reasonably priced, pair of quad artistic skates. What should I look for, what brands would be best, and who can fit and mount his skates. I don't go to his pro, because the quality of skates he has sold us in the past has been poor. Thanks,
Lin
Answer If he is really interested in doing better, buy the right size skates and just change the boot (not more than 1 size) or plate as he grows. Most people think they have to change the whole thing when growing, no, you can change boots and plates (no more than one size though) You cannot skate in skates that do not fit so get the right equipment.
As to brands well-----I think you should go to the rink where he skates or a rink that has competitive skating and talk to their sales people about what they stock and they can tell you more. There are a lot to choose from.
Wish I could help you more.
Marlene
