Buying hockey skates

This guide is for use before, under and after purchase of skates for hockey or ice hockey.

Before you buy hockey skates

There is a big difference in quality, fit and size between the many hockey brands.
Generally, price and quality are connected.

Please use this table as a rule-of-thumb for quality and selection of size:

If you are still growing, you may choose to buy your skates ½-1 size larger in order for you to be able to use them a little longer.
But, if you buy them too big, they will not give you proper support, and you will lose stability and power when skating.

When buying hockey skates

Try on the skates with the socks you are going to use when skating.
Try on more than one skate model in order for you to compare fit and quality.
Be aware of that some of the more expensive hockey skates are heat moldable and can be heat molded to fit your feet after purchase. When buying these skates, the skates do not have to fit 100% perfect because the heat molding shapes the skate to fit your feet.

1. Loosen the laces so much that your foot easily slips in the boot. Press your toes as far forward as you can. The size fits you when are just able to put a finger behind the heel in the boot.
2. Put on both skates. Lace the skate firmly, but not too tight. Get up and walk around to feel how the skate is. There can not be any painful pressure points.
3. Push the heel all the way back to make sure you have the correct support for the heel. Your heel may not be able to move, when your heel is all the way back in the boot.
4. Make sure there is space for the center of the foot and the toes and there are no painful pressure points.
5. Bend your knees. The skate should be flexible and allow you to bend your knees in order for you to maintain a good hockey position.
6. Put pressure side wards in the skate. The skate should be stiff and give a lot of support in order for you to skate comfortable and powerful.

Find here our Ice Hockey Skates Selection.