What are the best hockey skates? How to choose skates that will make you comfortable. How to correctly determine the size of the right hockey skates

We will not disassemble expensive specialized skates: professional athletes do not need advice. We will focus on skates for amateurs: figure skates, recreational skates and hockey skates.

These skates are designed for tricks and ice dancing, but universal models, unlike specialized ones, are also suitable for ordinary amateur skating.

Features of boots

Figure skate boots are tall and thin. They have a heel and lace up. As a rule, figure skates do not have fur or fleece insulation, but they are often supplemented with thermoformable padding (the material heats up and adapts to the characteristics of the foot) or anatomical foam inserts that provide a snug fit to the foot and a secure fit.

For those who choose an indoor skating rink, figure boots without insulation are not a problem. But if you're going to ride outside in , your feet may get cold. There is no point in counting on a warm sock and buying skates one size larger: the boots may not provide the necessary fixation and the foot will dangle. It is better to give preference to recreational skates.

Figure skate boots are differentiated by their stiffness. The toughest models are designed for skating with jumps, as they are able to protect the skater’s legs from damage when landing.

To check the stiffness of the boot, squeeze the top of the boot with your fingers. If the leather doesn't give in or lose its shape, these are tough boots. If it yields under pressure, it is soft.

There is no point in choosing very hard boots for amateurs. Such models are more expensive, and for normal skating the rigidity will be more of a hindrance than an advantage: the ride will be uncomfortable.

Blade Features

Figure skate blades have a fairly long straight section. It provides easy gliding on ice.

The stability of figure skates and the comfort of gliding depend on the radius of curvature of the blade, or, in other words, the degree of its bend. The larger the radius and, accordingly, the area of ​​contact of the blade with the ice, the more stable the skates.

The smaller radius of curvature of the blade ensures ease of turning and rotation. Therefore, if you are not going to spin on the ice, it is better to choose skates with a larger radius.

Another feature by which you can always distinguish figure skates is the sharp teeth in the front of the blade, designed to perform complex figures and stops.

The teeth of universal figure skates will not be useful for beginners, but they will not hurt either: they are located above the ice level and cling to the surface in rare cases.

It is also worth paying attention to the material of the blade. High-carbon steel is used in the production of more expensive models. These skates are lighter, and the blades resist corrosion better and stay sharp longer.

Low carbon and alloy steels are heavier and rust faster. These skates require more careful care.

How to try on figure skates

Put on your skates, lace them all the way, and walk around for 2-3 minutes. Boots should not be tight, otherwise you will cut off blood circulation and your legs quickly. They should not dangle either: in such skates, despite tight socks, the leg will be poorly fixed and stability will decrease.

The heel should be pressed to the back of the boot, the boot should tightly wrap around the leg. If, subject to these conditions, you are comfortable in the selected skates, then they are suitable for you.

Who are figure skates suitable for?

Universal figure skates are suitable for regular skating and for performing simple figures (if you are a beginner, self-taught skater and do not intend to do jumps and complex spins).

Simple models of figure skates are cheaper than recreational skates. Therefore, if you want to ride on a warm indoor skating rink and don’t want to spend money, universal figure skates are your option.

Well, if you are going to ride on the street and will not perform even simple figures, it is better to consider walking models.

Which skates to buy

• Women's figure skates for beginners Nordway SOFIA, 1,799 rubles →
• Women's figure skates for any level of training Nordway ALICE, 3,499 rubles →
• Men's figure skates for any level of training Nordway LAVAL, 3,499 rubles →
• Children's figure skates for beginners Nordway Alice, 3,299 rubles →

How to choose recreational skates

Boot Features

The boots of recreational skates (they are also called fitness skates) are lower and softer than those of figure skates, making it more comfortable to skate in them. In addition, the skates are complemented by an internal insulated boot. In some models you can take it out and dry it, which is quite convenient.

As for lacing, there are classic options with laces, and models with clips and Velcro for faster and more convenient putting on of skates.

Also among recreational skates there are models with anatomical inserts made of synthetic foam material. Thanks to these inserts, the skates provide even more comfort and provide good support for the foot while skating.

Blade Features

Unlike figure skates, the blade of recreational skates is straighter, with a larger radius of curvature. Due to this, the skates are more stable, but less maneuverable. However, maneuverability is not needed for mass skating.

There are models with or without teeth. Pleasure skates have fewer teeth than figure skates, and they are located higher, so they cannot accidentally catch on the ice.

Warm, soft and stable skates, which also often have a bright original design - ideal for mass skating.

Like figure skates, recreational skates should fit snugly around your foot, but not put pressure on your toes.

Which skates to buy

• Women's fitness skates for beginners Nordway LILY, 2,499 rubles →
• Women's fitness skates for beginners with clip closure Nordway LEA, 2,999 rubles →
• Women's fitness skates for any level of training Roces RFG1, 3,799 rubles →
• Men's fitness skates for beginners Nordway FH-ONE, 2,999 rubles →
• Men's fitness skates with clip closure Roces ICY-RX, 4,499 rubles →
• Children's sliding fitness skates Nordway Marvel Avengers, 2,999 rubles →

How to choose hockey skates

Hockey skates are designed to ride in a special technique necessary for the game. This is more of a run than the usual gliding for public skating. Therefore, it is better to choose such skates specifically for playing.

Hockey skates consist of three parts: the boot, the plastic cup to which the blade is attached, and the blade itself.

Models for beginners, as a rule, are non-separable: the glass and blade are a single unit. More professional models allow you to change the blade, since it wears out faster than the shoe and glass.

Boot Features

Shoe at hockey skates stiffer and longer than walking ones. The skate is secured to the leg with lacing, which is also quite long. This ensures good grip while riding.

The inside of the hockey boots features synthetic foam padding and soft lining for comfort while skating.

Depending on the class of skates (amateur, semi-professional, professional), the boots are supplemented with various inserts to protect the foot from impacts with a puck or stick and elements for adjusting the boot to the foot.

We will look at two types of skates: amateur (for beginners) and semi-professional (for progressive hockey players).

Amateur hockey skates

Amateur hockey skate boots are quite soft and comfortable to learn in. The sock is often complemented by a plastic toe to protect the toes.

Apart from the toe, amateur skates have no impact protection: they have a soft tongue and sides made of inexpensive synthetic materials.

Also in amateur level skating there is no additional features to customize your boots. At the same time, they have a relatively low cost, which makes them an attractive option for beginners.

Semi-professional hockey skates

Such models are designed for people who often play hockey and want to improve their level.

Skates of this class are better protected: they have a hard tongue, which simultaneously protects the foot from impacts and protects against the pressure of laces, and reinforced side protection with stiffening ribs.

Inner boots are also found in semi-professional skates. When heated, the special foam material becomes more flexible and adapts to the anatomical features of the hockey player’s legs.

Some models have air chambers with pumping. By pressing a button on the boot's cuff, the air chamber in the heel inflates or deflates, allowing you to find the most comfortable position.

These skates are worth buying if you plan to develop your playing skills and perhaps participate in amateur competitions.

Blade Features

The blades of hockey skates have a smaller radius of curvature than the blades of figure skates and recreational skates. So only the middle part touches the ice, and the toe and heel are raised above the ground. In such skates it is convenient not to slide, but to kind of run on the ice.

The blades of amateur hockey skates are usually made of alloy steel with the addition of chromium, nickel and manganese to provide rigidity.

When choosing such skates, pay attention to the quality of the blades: they should be smooth along the entire length, without cracks, dents or other damage.

Blades semi professional skates are made of carbon steel. They vary in carbon amount, weight, stiffness and height.

The amount of carbon in the steel affects the hardness of the blade and the ability to maintain an edge for a long time. The more carbon, the harder the blade. However, along with rigidity, brittleness also increases, so a hit with a puck or other skate can break blades that contain more than 0.9% carbon.

The height of the blade affects its durability. When sharpened, the blade shrinks, so taller models will last longer and survive more sharpening.

As for weight, it can be reduced due to the height of the blade or special aluminum inserts. On the other hand, such inserts can reduce the strength and durability of the blade.

How to measure hockey skates

Hockey skates are not the same size as regular shoes. Different manufacturers have their own sizing charts, which can help you decide which skates you will try on.

Once you find the right size and put on the boots, move your foot so that the heel is pressed firmly against the heel.

Your toes should touch the toe, but not rest against it, otherwise you will feel uncomfortable when skating.

You should not buy skates a size larger with the toe in mind: the boot will not hold your foot well and will be uncomfortable for you.

Hockey boots are divided not only by size, but also by the width of the last. So, if the skates suit you in length, but not in volume, just try on others.

By width, hockey skates are divided into:

• D or R (regular) is a standard width that suits most hockey players.
• C or N (narrow) - a narrower boot, about 0.6 cm narrower than the standard one.

How to care for skates

1. After each ride, wipe the blades with a dry cloth. This will help avoid corrosion.
2. Carry skates with covers on the blades, otherwise they may get damaged against each other or cut things in the bag.
3. Wear covers when wearing skates on hard surfaces, otherwise you will quickly ruin the sharpening of the blades.
4. Do not try to sharpen skates yourself; take them only to specialized workshops.
5. Don't forget to dry your skates. Take out the insoles (or inner boots if these are recreational skates), unlace the boots and place them in a place with good ventilation.
6. Do not dry your skates on a radiator: leather boots may lose their shape.

That's all. If you have any tips on how to choose skates or how to care for them, please leave a comment.

Note! You can buy the skates presented in the article cheaper if you use the special Lifehacker section.

Hockey is fascinating, but at the same time very dangerous look sport, and for those who decide to take it seriously, it is important to choose the best and most reliable hockey skates. Properly selected models will not only provide you with the proper level of protection, but will also allow you to develop high speed on the site.

Manufacturers of hockey equipment are well aware of the degree of responsibility that lies with them. Therefore, the quality of raw materials and the production process itself are always under close control. But, unfortunately, not all manufacturers cope with their responsibilities equally well. Some batches turn out better, some worse. Some brands are trusted, some companies prefer to be avoided. So how do you choose quality skates?

1. Be sure to walk around the store and check How tight does the boot fit? on your leg.
2. When trying on, wear socks of the same thickness as those you wear when playing hockey.
3. If you choose the option for newbies, then it is preferable to buy boots with a caliper and inserts for fixing the ankle.
4. pay attention to degree of hardness the boot itself. The stiffer it is, the better your leg will be fixed.

Don't forget that even before going to the store, you should decide on how to fix the skates on your feet. There are three options: laces, studs and laces combined with studs.

The easiest and most reliable way to secure your leg is with lacing. However, this option takes significantly more time than boots with rivets.

Children's for beginners

Have you decided to take up hockey, but don’t know which skates are suitable for this? A simple and reliable way to choose the best and most proven skates is to refer to the rating of the Marka.guru portal. This rating is based only on objective data. It takes into account the quality and cost of the product, as well as the opinions of real buyers.

1. MaxCity Ottawa+

The boots are made using artificial leather and synthetics for the interior. Laces are used to secure it on the leg. The sole is made of plastic.

• stainless steel blade;
• skates are not afraid of damage from puck hits;
• reliably protect the leg from dislocation.

• there is no way to move the boot apart;
• There are no replaceable blades.

The cost of this model is 3090 rubles - excellent value for money.

Prices for MaxCity Ottawa+:

2. Bauer Nexus 3000

The model is made of nylon and synthetics.

High strength of fixation of the boot on the foot thanks to a competent design.

The cost of the model is 4390 rubles.

• anatomical design was used in the manufacture of the tongue;
• equipped with ankle support;
• There are replaceable blades.

• low quality laces;
• amateur level of protection.

Adults - for those who have just decided to take up hockey

Remember that “your” skates will not rub your heel, will not dangle on your foot, and will not press on it. When purchasing, be sure to make sure that the size and fit of the boot are completely suitable for you.

Prices for Bauer Nexus 3000:

Along with durability and convenience, this model also takes into account the lightness of the design. High-quality execution of all details. The cost of such skates is 5690 rubles.

• strong laces for fixation;
• blades made of hardened steel;
• The level of protection is comparable to professional ones.

• the insole is not secured, it can get knocked down and fly out;
• Used easily soiled colors that get dirty quickly.

Prices :

Leather and breathable synthetics are used for production.

Very comfortable and easy to ride.

The model is fixed on the leg with laces. The cost of skates is 4200 rubles.

• blades are made of high carbon steel;
• high frost resistance;
• The design uses reinforcement of the bow.

• sometimes you have to re-lace your shoes;
• heavy.

Prices :

Adult models for real professionals

Most often, hockey professionals prefer the usual model, which is not always true. After all, new developments in this area are constantly appearing on the market, and smart hockey players do not forget to keep an eye on it. According to the Mark.guru portal, in 2018 the models presented below can be considered the best professional skates.

The cost is only about 2100 rubles. For this amount, the manufacturer offers comfortable boots made of leather and synthetics.

The excellent blade provides reliable grip on the surface.

Laces are used for fixation.

• additional reinforcement of the boot and its toe;
• perforated blade;
• increased maneuverability.

Flaws:

• crack at the bends;
• not a plastic nose that can hurt you.

Prices :

An excellent option for professional skating.

They are fixed with laces, which allows you to adjust the skate exactly to your foot.

The quality is at the Swiss level, costing 21,200 rubles.

• have replaceable blades made of stainless steel;
• reinforced toe;
• protect the foot from being hit by the puck;
• frost-resistant model.

Flaws:

• high cost compared to other brands.

Prices :

Buying reliable skates for an adult is half the success in the game. For a child, we are talking not only about professionalism, but also about the level of his security.

According to Mark.guru, the best children's professional hockey skates are Bauer Vapor X500 (children). Excellent design, providing a high degree of reliability during the game.

The special design works in such a way that as the temperature increases, the boot takes the shape of the foot.

Excellent quality and stylish design - that's what you can get for only 4,990 rubles.

• The model uses a thermoformable boot;
• anatomical tongue design;
• ankle support;
• stainless steel blade.

• designed for high lift;
• legs get tired.

Prices for Bauer Vapor X500:

Conclusion

It is worth noting that, despite the invention of rivets for fixing boots on the foot, most buyers remain faithful to lace-up models. And this is no coincidence. Such skates fit better to the leg, which increases the safety of the hockey player when skating. Remember that you should not neglect protection, especially for beginner athletes. Choose the most modern and reliable models from the Marka.guru portal.

Hockey skates are the most important piece of equipment for playing hockey. If they are chosen incorrectly, then the athlete is unlikely to be able to demonstrate the maximum level of his game. In addition from correct selection skates depend not only on the speed and accuracy of movements, but also on the health of the hockey player.

First of all, we need to determine age group, since hockey skates are divided into adult, junior and children's. Then take into account the level of skating - beginner, amateur, semi-professional, professional.

And only then go shopping.

Anyone who is wondering how to choose high quality hockey skates? – the main advice should be given: contact specialized stores offering branded products! Don't think that top brands of skates are necessarily prohibitively expensive; Along with professional models, the assortment of any major manufacturing company always includes affordable products for beginners and amateurs. But you don’t have to worry about the quality of skates from BAUER, CSM, REEBOK, GRAF, EASTON.

So, what should you look for when buying hockey skates:

Model– for amateur, semi-professional, professional game. The more professional the skates, the higher their strength and level of leg protection, the greater the rigidity of the boot, the better the steel of the blade, and the lower the overall weight. Signature hockey skates always have a perfect fit between the boot, cup and blade, but keep in mind that the blades and holders for most models are sold separately and can be replaced.

Size– for adult players, skates must be selected strictly according to size so that the boot fits tightly and confidently around the foot. How to choose hockey skates for children and teenagers whose legs are still growing? It is acceptable to purchase boots half a size larger, initially compensating for the difference with thick socks. Under no circumstances should you buy hockey skates one or two sizes larger: a hockey player simply will not be able to move confidently, “feel” the ice, or perform the necessary maneuvers. Please note that household shoe sizes are not the same as hockey boots, so branded products always come with a size comparison chart. And don’t forget that in addition to length, hockey skates also have fullness: if suitable model Just right in length, but a little tight on the sides, just choose a different fullness of boot.

Comfort– the most important indicator the right choice skates Hockey players spend many hours on the rink in active movement, and an attempt to “suffer a little” from the inconvenience for the sake of the technical advantages of the skates will inevitably result in fatigue, poor quality of play, mistakes, and in especially unpleasant cases, injuries.

You should be especially careful when purchasing skates for beginners, children and teenagers; Athletes who have been playing hockey for several years usually already know how to choose the most comfortable model of hockey skates, and focus mainly on improving technical characteristics.

Hockey skates have significant differences from other types of this sports equipment. They are more massive, have hard protective inserts outside and inside. The latter fix the foot, ankle joint, protecting the leg from damage during aggressive skating, collisions with other players or obstacles. Therefore, such boots are laced much higher than the ankle. The length of the blades only protrude slightly beyond the boundaries of the boot at the front and back; they are secured in special sockets, which are called glasses. The blade can be removable or cast (non-removable).

Structurally, hockey skates are divided into three main parts: a boot, a plastic cup for attaching the blade, and the stainless steel blade itself.

Not long ago I had to help choose men’s professional ice hockey skates at the expert level, and I was faced with the problem that the network provides very little information on professional and semi-professional models. As for hockey skates for beginners, there is simply a dime a dozen materials, but with professional models things are not so rosy. Therefore, I had to familiarize myself with the equipment of our team, as well as the national hockey teams of countries such as Canada, Finland and the USA. In this article you will find a rating of professional models of ice hockey skates, the main characteristics of such skates and information on the approximate cost of professional models.

Rating of professional hockey skates

As for the Russian national ice hockey team, our most popular brands are Bauer, CCM, Reebok, Graf, Easton and Mix. These brands are listed in order from the most popular and common to the least popular. In 2015, our team competed in full equipment from CCM. Of course, each brand has models of different levels for beginners, amateurs and professionals.

Bauer. An American brand that is most widely represented in Russia compared to other hockey brands. Adult hockey skates from this company are represented by several lines, namely Nexus, Supreme and Vapor. The Vapor line is especially popular among our team.

Top models in each line: Bauer Vapor 1X, Bauer Nexus 1N and Bauer Supreme 1S. Each of these models costs about fifty dollars. But, oddly enough, other skates from these lines have proven themselves best.

1. Bauer Vapor X500. The professional and relatively inexpensive Bauer Vapor X500 model is very popular and has excellent performance characteristics. Its cost is about ten thousand rubles. These skates are ideally designed for fast and fast skating. Their features are due to their characteristics. First, there is a standard fit in the toe area and a tapered V fit in the ankle and heel area. This allows players to accelerate and turn very quickly in these skates. Second is the composition of the upper and lower parts of these skates. Upper: Quarter Package construction - nylon with thermoformed X-rib design, hydrophobic microfiber lining, ankle padding with anatomical foam ankle pads, anatomically shaped tongue (2-piece, 40 oz felt, with metatarsal guard), insole made of EVA material, molded for comfort, thermoformable top part Skate Heel Support - Patented, integrated anatomical heel/ankle support. Bottom part: outsole (transparent integrated TPU), blade holder (TUUK LIGHTSPEED EDGE), blade (TUUK Super stainless steel). These skates are designed for foot sizes D and EE.

2. Bauer Nexus N8000. Incredibly comfortable, highly durable and ultra-light skates. They are distinguished by the following characteristics of the upper part: professional level Nylon Tech Mesh, HYDRA MAX Mesh Lining, Lightweight Memory Foam Ankle Cushion, 3-Piece Tongue (48 oz., Felt, Metatarsal Guard), FORM-FIT+ Footbed with Heel Stabilizer, Thermoformed Toecap . Bottom: Outsole (Pro TPU with graphic design), blade holder (TUUK LIGHTSPEED EDGE), blade (TUUK LS2 stainless steel). These skates are designed for foot sizes D and EE.

3. Bauer Vapor X900. The fit of these skates is completely similar to the Bauer Vapor X500 described above. Upper: Quarter Package construction - 3D Curv ® composite upper with X-rib design, HYDRA MAX mesh lining, lightweight anatomical ankle pads, anatomical FORM FIT tongue (contains 48 oz. and 40 oz. felt and molded polyethylene shin guard). metatarsal), FORM-FIT insole with support and moisture control, thermoformable skate upper, anatomical heel and ankle support. Bottom: Lightweight, full composite sole, blade holder (TUUK LIGHTSPEED EDGE), blade (TUUK LS3 stainless steel blade). These skates are designed for foot sizes D, EE.

4. Bauer Nexus N5000. The most inexpensive skates from this rating. They are much inferior to the models listed above, as they are not equipped with a thermoformable boot. However, it's a great value for the money and has a lot going for it. Upper Features: Quarter Package lightweight mesh construction, brushed nylon lining, ankle protection with comfortable foam ankle pads, molded felt comfort tongue, EVA footbed , molded for comfort. Bottom material: sole (TPR), blade holder (TUUK LIGHTSPEED Pro), blades (TUUK Super stainless steel). These skates are designed for foot size R.

CCM. CCM is Canada's oldest hockey equipment brand. Since 2015, it has been an official partner of the Russian national hockey team. For over a hundred years, this brand has been producing professional hockey equipment highest quality.

Ice skates from CCM are represented by three lines: Ribcore, Jetspeed and Super Tacks. The rating includes some successful models.

1. CCM Ribcor 48K Skate. Professional skates with a thermoformable boot and protective coating on the blade costing about 30 thousand rubles. Thanks to the protective coating, the blades last longer than conventional stainless steel blades. The lightweight, three-layer tongue provides a comfortable fit and secure protection. These skates are designed for foot sizes D, EE.

2. CCM Tacks 5092.Professional hockey skates with a thermoformable boot made from a synthetic blend with a synthetic fabric interior, stainless steel blades and extra ankle support. These skates are designed for foot sizes D, EE.

Easton. A fairly old family brand with a fairly young hockey division, which has been operating since 1986. In 2016, Bauer bought Easton, so it is now a subsidiary of Bauer.

1. Easton Mako M8. Very comfortable fit and very light professional skates. These skates are designed for foot sizes D, EE. Thermoformable boot is made of combined synthetics. The skates feature patented Extendon technology, a water-repellent lining, a lightweight tongue with safety laces, an ORTHOLITE sockliner, and a CXN stainless steel blade.

When choosing professional skates, it is not enough to simply study the ratings of the best skates. It is important to be able to make the right choice taking into account the fullness of your legs, choose the right size, and also take into account the characteristics of your playing style. You can read about this in the next article in order: ““.