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The top ice skates for children are those that ensure stability, comfort, and enjoyment. As you choose ice skates for your young one, take into account factors such as balance, cosy liners, and robust ankle support.
Whether your child is new to skating or has some experience, the right choice of skates can have a significant effect on their pleasure and enthusiasm. This guide explores the crucial elements when it comes to selecting ice skates for children:
- Types of ice skates: Should you choose hockey, figure skate, or recreational hybrid skates?
- Boots: Would hard or soft boots be more suitable?
- Blades: Are hockey or figure skate blades preferable?
- Buckle systems: How do lacing systems compare with buckles?
Varieties of Ice Skates for Children
Here's a concise overview of the various ice skates available for kids. By identifying your child's preference, you can streamline the selection, making it more manageable.
Figure Skates for Young Skaters
In this setting, 'figure skates' denote skates with a toe pick at the front of the blade alongside a soft boot. This toe pick assists children in controlling their movement as they adjust to the feeling of sliding on ice. For beginners, figure skates are typically more about the stability offered than learning artistic routines.
- Stability: Figure skates have more stable flat blades, though they may not be as nimble.
- Style: If your child shows an interest in artistic skating, figure skates are the logical initial choice.
- Toe Pick: Toe picks can aid kids by facilitating easier acceleration, yet, they might also cause trips as children adjust.
Hockey Skates for Children
Hockey skates are characterised by their curved blade, granting more agility but reduced stability when compared to figure skates. If your child wishes to play hockey and has some familiarity with ice skating, hockey skates naturally suit their needs. A benefit of opting for hockey skates is that they often come with a robust protective boot.
- Agility: A curved design allows hockey skates to support nimble movements and backward skating.
- Speed: Hockey skates permit quicker acceleration.
- Hard Boots: The hard boots offer enhanced protection of the feet and also support the ankles significantly.
- Level: For children completely new to skating, hockey skates remain a viable choice, particularly for hockey play.
It's worth noting that recreational ice skates usually provide more comfort and are simpler for novices than ice hockey skates.
Recreational Ice Skates for Newcomers
Recreational skates blend aspects of hockey and figure skates, presenting a fantastic option for beginner children, offering a harmonious alternative to the more specialised models. These skates come with easy-to-manage lacing and buckle systems, plus simple blades. Some may include toe picks, while others do not.
Designed with comfort and enjoyment as priorities, recreational skates are ideal for those wishing to skate purely for pleasure, without an emphasis on performance. They often feature a soft boot shell, akin to what is found on fitness inline skates.
- Comfort: Warm and dry feet are ensured through liners with insulating and breathable features.
- Style: Certain models may suit casual dance moves (via toe picks) or relaxed ice hockey games (without toe picks).
- Level: New skaters will find recreational skates a suitable choice as they begin to explore ice skating.
Adjustable Skates for Novice Children
Many children's ice skate models are adjustable in size, accommodating growth and extending the duration they fit. While adjustable designs might introduce more potential weaknesses, quality options prove beneficial for children skating recreationally.
- Growing Feet: Covering 3 to 4 shoe sizes, these skates cater for longer use, saving money and ensuring a fit as your child's feet grow.
- Fit: Adjustability ensures a custom fit, reducing risks like blisters from improperly sized skates.
Toddler Ice Skates – Step-In Skates with Double Blades
If eager to get your toddler onto the ice, consider skates tailored for them, featuring dual blades enhancing stability. Designed to strap over regular boots or shoes, these adjustable skates provide a fun and safe ice introduction for young children.
Checklist for Choosing Kids' Ice Skates
Utilise this checklist for a streamlined approach to selecting the best pair of skates for your child. Addressing these four points simplifies the selection process.
Determining the Right Size
Ensuring the correct skate size is crucial. While online shopping restricts physical fitting, our size guides for each pair make it straightforward. Measure your child’s feet length and refer to our size chart for the appropriate fit.
- Measure Foot Length: Position the foot against a wall, measure from wall to toe tip. A piece of paper can help mark the point accurately.
- Check "Show Size Chart": Use the guidance to align your child's foot length with the corresponding skate size for purchase.
- Adjustability: Many skates can adjust sizes, making such options advantageous as they cover your child's foot growth.
Examining Blade Types
Review the blade type, determining if they are flat or curved, and inspect for any toe picks at the blade's front.
- Figure Skate Blades: Flat blades with toe picks provide additional stability, highly suitable for beginners.
- Hockey Blades: Their curved nature offers agility, appealing to hockey enthusiasts or those with some skating experience.
Each blade type presents its unique benefits for children. If they enjoy skating with toe picks, they are inclined to favour them thereafter. Conversely, starting with hockey blades may lead them to perceive toe picks as cumbersome later on.
Skill Progression
Your child's progress influences their skating needs and preferences.
- Beginners: Focus on comfort, ankle support, and learning ease, emphasizing skates with cushioned liners and solid ankle support.
- Intermediate: As skills advance, preference dictates choices, including style. Hockey blades suit fast, agile moves, whereas figure skates cater to graceful, dance-type movements.
The Purpose/Style of Skating
Consider what type of skating your child aims to pursue. Whether specific goals or general fun, select from the three skate types:
- Recreational Skates: With straightforward buckles, laces, and comfort liners, these are great for enjoyment rather than performance. Similarities to inline skates suit those already inclined to them.
- Hockey Skates: For those eager to play ice hockey, a dedicated pair offers the best experience.
- Figure Skates: If your child aspires to master artistic moves, figure skates are the go-to option.
In conclusion: Once you have a clear idea of skate size and type, you’re ready to find the ideal ice skates for your child.
Ice Skating Safety Gear
Never let children skate without proper protective gear. Falls are inevitable, so adequate protection is vital.
The same safety equipment used for inline or roller skating fits perfectly. If you lack gear, explore our collection of helmets and protective sets:
