✨ Figure skating as an adult is an exciting journey – and having the right boots under you can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know (in plain, beginner-friendly language) about choosing figure skating boots as an adult. From why a good fit matters to comparing popular brands and avoiding common pitfalls, we’ve got you covered.
Lace up and let’s dive in! ⛸️
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Why Choosing the Right Boots Matters for Adult Skaters
😩 Bad Boots Are a Vibe Killer
Let’s start with the obvious: bad boots are a vibe killer. 😩
Whether you’re brand new or making your glorious return to the ice, what’s on your feet matters. And no, we’re not just talking about looking cute (although that’s a bonus). Your skates are your foundation, and your boots in particular affect everything from how you balance to how much you actually enjoy being out there. Choosing the right pair isn’t optional — it’s essential.
👟✨ Comfort Is Everything
Comfort is everything. 👟✨
If your skates are giving you blisters, pressure points, or crampy arches, skating quickly becomes... not fun. A well-fitted boot, on the other hand, feels like a cozy handshake for your feet — snug, secure, and supportive in all the right places. When your feet feel good, you feel good. And when you feel good? You skate better, learn faster, and (most importantly) want to come back for more.
🦶🛡️ Support = Safety
Support = safety, especially for adults. 🦶🛡️
Our bodies carry more weight and have more wear and tear than a 10-year-old’s. That means our boots need to work harder. A proper boot helps keep your ankles from collapsing inward, gives you stability, and protects you from injury. Wobbly boots = wobbly skater = unnecessary falls. But when your boot holds you up the way it should, you can focus on form, not fear.
🚀 The Right Gear Fuels Progress
Your gear can either hold you back or help you grow. 🚀
A boot that’s too soft breaks down fast and offers no support. A boot that’s too stiff won’t let you bend your knees or move freely. Either one can totally stall your progress. But a well-matched boot? It lets you build solid technique, try new things, and develop real confidence. You stop fighting your equipment and start flowing with it.
🧊💙 Skating Should Be a Joy
Skating should feel like something you look forward to. 🧊💙
Life is busy — and if your gear isn’t comfortable, skating becomes one more thing you have to push through. But when your boots feel amazing? You’ll make time for the rink. That joy, that motivation to show up again and again, comes from feeling good in your setup. And that’s what keeps people skating for life.
Next up: let’s talk about how adult skaters’ needs differ from younger ones — because grown-up feet, goals, and bodies deserve gear that meets us where we are. 👣🧠
How Adult Skaters’ Needs Differ from Younger Skaters
🧍♀️ Adults Aren’t Just Taller Kids
Let’s get one thing straight: adult skaters aren’t just taller kids. 🧍♀️🧍♂️
Our bodies, goals, and skating experiences come with a whole different set of needs — especially when it comes to boots. The gear that works for a 50-pound 10-year-old just isn’t going to cut it for a grown-up with a full-grown frame, a busy schedule, and maybe even a few old sports injuries in the mix. If you’ve ever wondered why “youth boots” don’t feel quite right, here’s why.
💪 More Weight, More Power
First off: we carry more weight and power. 💪 Adults naturally apply more force to their skates — especially during things like edges, spins, or landing jumps. That means our boots need to hold up under pressure. A super soft beginner boot might work fine for a child, but for an adult, it could break down in a few weeks or leave your ankles feeling like wet noodles. Many adult skaters benefit from a slightly stiffer boot than someone younger at the same skill level. It’s not about being “advanced” — it’s about making sure your boots can keep up with your body.
👣 Foot Shape Comes with Baggage
Then there’s foot shape — and oh boy, do adult feet have stories. 👣
Years of walking, sports, and life in general can leave us with feet that need a little extra love. Bunions, wide forefeet, high arches, flat arches, ankle alignment issues… the list goes on. Kids’ feet are still developing and tend to be more straightforward to fit. But adult skaters often need specialty widths, added padding, or heat-molding to make boots truly comfortable. The good news? Our feet aren’t growing anymore (🎉), so once you find a great pair, you can invest knowing they’ll last you years.
🎯 Different Goals, Different Boots
Your skating goals look different now — and that’s awesome. 🎯
As adults, we tend to skate for different reasons. Maybe you’re returning to the ice after decades away. Maybe you’re chasing new skills, aiming for adult competitions, or just carving out a little “me time” every week. Whatever your goal, it matters — and your boots should reflect that. If you skate once a week for fun, you probably want something comfy and moderately supportive. If you’re training hard, you’ll need something stiffer. Just don’t fall into the trap of buying boots that match your childhood glory days — your body and needs have evolved. Pick what works for you now.
🩹 Adults Don’t Want to Suffer
Let’s be honest — we’re not trying to suffer through pain anymore. 🩹
Kids will sometimes tough it out through blisters and stiff boots. Adults? Not so much. And we shouldn’t! Comfort matters, and the right boots can help avoid hot spots, pressure points, and overuse injuries. Look for features like soft collars, extra padding, or heat-moldable interiors. And if you’ve had ankle or knee injuries, your boots can literally make or break your ability to skate safely. Some adults need more flexibility, others need more support — either way, listen to your body and don’t settle.
Adult skaters deserve boots that honor our grown-up bodies, fit our unique feet, and match our personal skating goals — whether that’s toe loop dreams or peaceful laps during public skate. You’re not too old, too new, or too late. You just need the right support under you.
Next up: we’ll talk about one of the biggest factors in choosing your perfect boot — stiffness. Too soft and you’ll feel like a noodle, too stiff and you’ll be stuck like a robot. Let’s find your “just right.” 💫
Boot Stiffness Levels Explained (and Choosing the Right Support)
📚 What Is Boot Stiffness?
Let’s start with the basics: what even is stiffness? 🤠
In skate boots, stiffness refers to how much resistance the boot offers when you try to flex your ankle forward. A stiff boot has firm, supportive materials that hold their shape and keep your ankle aligned. A soft boot bends more easily and is more forgiving, especially for beginners. Brands often assign a stiffness number (like 20, 40, or 80) to indicate how rigid a boot is. The higher the number, the stiffer the boot. For example, a basic recreational skate might have a stiffness rating around 15–30, while an advanced boot designed for axels or double jumps can be 70+. The key is choosing a stiffness level that supports your body without locking you in place like a ski boot.
🔍 Why Stiffness Matters
Why does stiffness matter? Because it can make or break your skating. ⛹️♀️
Too soft, and you’ll feel unstable, especially when doing one-foot elements or trying to land jumps. Too stiff, and you won’t be able to bend or move naturally. A boot that is too rigid can feel like your foot is encased in concrete and might even cause pain or hinder your ability to learn. Adult skaters need that Goldilocks zone: enough support to protect your joints, but enough flexibility to bend your knees and push properly. A boot that’s matched to your strength, body, and current skills will feel secure yet responsive, helping you avoid injuries and improve faster.
Here’s how stiffness ratings generally match up with skating experience and goals:
| Skill Level | Recommended Boot Type | Stiffness Range | What This Means |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner Just starting / recreational skating | Soft support | 10–30 | Flexible boots that allow easy ankle movement. Best for learning basics like gliding, swizzles, and stops. Less risk of overbooting. |
| Intermediate Working on spins & single jumps | Medium support | 35–50 | More structure to absorb impact and support body weight during jumps. Allows flexibility while improving control and edge stability. |
| Advanced Axel, doubles, competitive practice | Strong support | 55–80+ | Highly supportive for powerful takeoffs and landings. Best for skaters with strong technique and solid jump mechanics. Too stiff for beginners. |
⚖️ Body Type Considerations
But wait — your skill isn’t the only thing that matters. ✌️
Body type plays a role too. A heavier adult might need more support than a lighter skater at the same level, simply because of the extra force being applied to the boot. On the flip side, if you’re very petite or have less leg strength, a super stiff boot might actually hold you back. Try to find that middle ground where you feel stable but can still move freely. Jackson, for example, recommends slightly stiffer boots for larger skaters even if they're at the same level as someone smaller.
🧍♂️ Adult-Specific Challenges
Adults in particular need support and flexibility. 🧍♂️
One of the most common challenges for adult skaters is reduced ankle flexibility compared to kids. Many adults also carry prior injuries or have naturally limited range of motion. That means a boot that's too stiff can quickly become an obstacle. Look for features like flex notches (small cuts at the ankle for forward motion), slightly lower boot backs, or padded tongues that allow for some bend while still providing structure. Heat-moldable boots are also a great option, helping the boot shape better to your specific anatomy, which reduces break-in time and eliminates hotspots.
📦 Real-World Boot Examples
Some real-world examples:
The Jackson Mystique and Artiste are common entry-level boots with stiffness ratings around 15–30. For intermediate adults working on singles, the Riedell 223 Stride (stiffness around 50) is a great balance of support and flexibility. Once you're jumping higher or doing axels and doubles, models like the Edea Chorus or Jackson Freestyle (stiffness in the 60–70 range) offer strong support for takeoffs and landings.
💬 Final Tips
Quick tip:
If you’re stuck between two boot models, go with the one that gives you a touch more support — but only if you can still flex and skate comfortably. Overbooting (getting a boot that’s way too stiff for your needs) is a common mistake and can lead to frustration, stalled progress, or even injury. On the other hand, a boot that's too soft may break down quickly, especially if you skate often or put a lot of force through your movements.
The Importance of Proper Fit: Width, Foot Shape, and Common Issues
Fit is just as important as stiffness when choosing figure skating boots. 💡
A well-fitting skate boot should feel like a glove – snug in all the right places, with no uncomfortable pressure points or gaps. Since adult feet come in a wide range of shapes and needs, it’s critical to find boots that are truly suited to your foot.
📏 Length and Width Sizing
Skate sizes don’t match your street shoes.
Most people need skates 1–2 sizes smaller than their sneakers for a properly snug fit. Your toes should just brush the inside of the boot (not crunched, not floating), and the width should feel comfortably snug with no squeezing or major gaps. Pay attention to width designations (like A, B, C or Narrow/Wide), and know that different brands have different defaults. Jackson skates tend to have a wider toe box; Riedell has a narrower heel; Edea fits a wider front with a snug heel. Try on a few brands to see which foot shape (or "last") works for you.
🦶 Common Adult Foot Issues
➮ Bunions: If you have bunions, choose boots with a wider toe box or have the area “punched out” by a skate tech. Punching creates more space without sacrificing overall fit. This is a common fix — just don’t buy boots that squeeze your bunion thinking they’ll stretch (they won’t, and it’ll hurt).
➮ Wide toes / narrow heel: This combo is super common among adult skaters. If the boot feels great up front but your heel lifts, try a different brand or heat-moldable model. You can also use lacing tricks or inserts to snug up the heel without crushing your toes. Jackson and Edea are often better for this than Riedell, but it varies person to person.
➮ Flat feet or high arches: Many adults benefit from orthotic insoles in their boots. If you feel foot fatigue, arch pain, or pronation, try adding arch support. You can also bring your custom orthotics to a skate fitting — most boots can accommodate them, especially if you remove the factory insole. Riedell even offers their own orthotic-friendly kits. Better foot alignment helps prevent knee and hip pain too.
🔥 Heat-Moldable Boots
Heat molding can help boots fit your feet perfectly. Many modern boots (like Jackson, Edea, Riedell) are heat-moldable. A pro shop will warm the boot and shape it to your unique foot. It’s perfect for adults who need a little extra help dialing in the fit around bunions, arches, or odd bumps. This doesn’t change the boot size, but it can make a huge difference in comfort.
🧵 Custom Boots
Most skaters don’t need custom boots — but they exist for hard-to-fit feet. If your feet are very wide, narrow, or oddly shaped, a custom boot from Riedell, Harlick, or SP-Teri might be the answer. They’re pricier, but they’re built to match your foot exactly. Still, before going custom, try heat molding, insoles, and different brands first — they work for most adults!
💡 Pro Tip:
Fit your boots to your larger foot. Most people have one foot that’s slightly bigger. Always size to that one, and pad the smaller foot with an insole or sock if needed. Never squash the bigger foot — it’ll cause pain and ruin your skating experience.
Heat Molding and Break-In Tips for Adults
🎉 You Found a Pair That Feels Good? Let’s Make Them Great
You found a pair of boots that feel good in the shop? Amazing! 🎉
Now comes the real work: making them feel great on the ice. Breaking in new figure skating boots is a rite of passage for every skater. It’s kind of like breaking in stiff hiking boots or new pointe shoes — it takes time, patience, and a little TLC. Luckily, modern boots often come with heat-moldable linings and features that can make the break-in smoother and faster.
✨ What Is Heat Molding?
What is Heat Molding, anyway? ✨
Heat molding (aka "heat baking") is a process where the boot is gently warmed so the materials soften and conform to your foot shape. As it cools, the boot retains that shape — kind of like a foot hug made just for you. This technique can reduce break-in time and eliminate pressure points caused by bunions, ankle bones, or unique foot quirks. Most heat-moldable skates are baked in a skate shop oven, but some experienced skaters use DIY methods like a home oven or heat gun. (Be careful — always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.) If your shop offers this service, say yes! It’s a game changer.
🚗 Heat Molding vs. Break-In
Heat molding isn’t a shortcut for break-in — but it gives you a head start. 🚗 Molding helps the boots fit better out of the gate, but you still need to skate in them to create the creases and flexibility your foot requires. Think of it like shaping the boot to your anatomy before putting in the hours to soften it further. For adults who want to avoid the worst of the break-in struggle, heat molding is absolutely worth it.
❄️ How to Break In New Boots
Start slow and gentle. ❄️
Don’t go for axels or crazy spins on day one. Your first few sessions should focus on basics: stroking, gliding, maybe some cautious crossovers. Veteran skaters recommend lacing only the lower 2–3 hooks for the first few hours to help the tongue bend gradually. After that, slowly work your way up to full lacing. It’s a small trick that can prevent painful creases across the toes.
👑 Protect Your Feet Like Royalty
Protect your feet like they’re royalty. 👑
Even well-fit boots might rub or cause hot spots while you break them in. Use gel sleeves (like bunga pads), moleskin, or lace bite pads to cushion problem areas. Thin socks or tights are best — thick socks tend to shift around and create friction. Some skaters also gently flex the boot by hand to start softening the ankle area at home.
🤦♀️ Soreness Is Normal, Pain Is Not
Expect soreness — but not sharp pain. 🤦♀️
Your feet and ankles may feel tired or a little achy at first. That’s normal. What’s not normal: numbness, stabbing pain, or any feeling like your toes are being crushed. Those are signs something needs adjusting. It might mean a second heat molding, a punch-out at a pressure point, or simply a tweak to your lacing technique.
⏳ Break-In Timeline
Break-in takes time. ⏳
Most adult skaters find that the first 5–10 hours on ice are the most uncomfortable. By 20–30 hours, your boots should feel like a second skin. If you only skate once a week, that might take a couple months. If you’re out there several times a week, it’ll go faster. The key is consistency and not overdoing it too early.
⛔️ Painful Spots? Don’t Ignore Them
Run into a painful spot? Don’t ignore it. ⛔️ Try these fixes:
- Spot heat molding just the problem area
- Professional boot punching (often used for bunions or bony ankles)
- Insole adjustments or skipping eyelets to relieve pressure
- Taking a rest day and treating blisters before skating again
😌 How Long Should Skates Hurt?
So how long should skates hurt? Trick question — they shouldn’t. 😌
Discomfort, sure. Pressure, probably. But if you’re still in pain after 10+ hours of break-in, something’s wrong. Don’t push through it. Adult skaters don’t need to "tough it out" like kids sometimes do. You deserve comfort and function.
✅ Get heat molding if you can – it helps a ton
✅ Break them in slowly and kindly
✅ Pad your feet like the precious cargo they are
✅ Adjust anything that feels truly wrong
✅ Be patient, and know the bliss of broken-in boots is coming
Your skates are going to feel amazing soon — and when they do, you’ll be so glad you took the time to break them in right. Happy skating! ❄️✨
Tips for Getting Fitted – In-Person vs. Virtual, Working with Pro Shops, and Red Flags
Now that you know which boots you’re interested in, it’s time to get fitted. Proper fitting is arguably the most important step in the process of getting new skates. A professional fitting can save you so much trouble by ensuring you get the right size, width, and model. Here are some tips for getting fitted, whether in person or remotely, and some red flags to watch out for:
📍 Whenever Possible, See a Skate Fitter In Person
- Experienced skate techs can assess your goals, foot shape, and more
- Good fitters use insoles, measure carefully, and explain options
- They may help with blade alignment and heat molding
💻 Virtual Fittings and Online Ordering
- Remote fitters may ask for foot tracings, photos, and measurements
- Many use mm or inch-based sizing – measure carefully while standing
- Order snug over loose – too-tight can be stretched, too-big is a problem
👟 Try on Multiple Brands
- Each brand has different last shapes (foot molds)
- Try Jackson, Riedell, Edea side-by-side if possible
- If something feels off, say so! Fitters can tweak or suggest alternatives
🚩 Red Flags During Fitting
- “Just size up” if your half-size isn’t available – skates must be snug, not roomy
- Pushing high-end boots for beginners – overbooting will stall progress
- No measuring, no questions asked – fitting is not one-size-fits-all
- “That pain will go away” dismissal – minor pressure is fine, sharp pain is not
- Used or old stock with no context – avoid unless you’re confident in sizing
📅 In-Person Fitting Day Tips
- Go in the afternoon – feet swell throughout the day
- Bring your skating socks/tights and orthotics
- Trim toenails to avoid extra pressure
- Allow enough time so you’re not rushed
📦 What to Expect After Fitting
- You may walk out with boots or wait for mounting/sharpening
- Ask about shop policies: heat molding, adjustments, returns
- If unsure about fit, some shops allow size exchange before use
📐 Virtual Fitting/Ordering Tips
- Measure feet standing, trace outline, follow shop instructions exactly
- Double-check all info before submitting
- Try on clean – no baking or sharpening until fit is confirmed
- Some skaters order 2 sizes to test, then return the one that doesn’t fit
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Your First (or Next) Pair as an Adult
We’ve covered a lot of dos, but let’s talk about some common mistakes adult skaters make when purchasing boots so you can steer clear of them. Even with all the info out there, it’s easy to fall into these traps (especially if you’re excited or overwhelmed). Here are the big mistakes to avoid:
🩰 Buying Skates That Are Too Big
- Biggest fitting mistake – extra space in skates = blisters, sliding, and poor control
- Adults don’t need “room to grow” – buy your true size
- Proper fit = snug, almost like a firm handshake
- Wearing thick socks to fix big skates won’t work – use thin socks and correct size
🧱 Over-Booting (Too Advanced / Too Stiff)
- Don’t buy for “someday” skill – match your current level
- High-end boots are often too stiff for beginners
- Stiff boots can be painful and hard to bend, hurting technique
- Buy for now – upgrade later when your skating warrants it
🧊 Buying Cheap Imitation Skates
- Skates from non-skate brands (e.g. $50 department store pairs) lack support
- Materials often floppy, blades low quality or unsafe
- Can cause ankle injuries or blade failures
- Real brands (Jackson, Riedell, Edea, etc.) offer much better quality for ~$150+
🚫 No Fitting or Research
- Don’t go into a store unprepared – do your research
- Seek pro shops or skate-savvy retailers
- Use online reviews, ask skaters, or consult a coach
- Blind-buying often leads to returns or painful mistakes
👢 Skating in Old, Broken-Down Boots
- Boots lose support over time – even unused ones
- If leather is soft/creased, or your ankle wobbles = time to replace
- Old glue can dry and soles fail
- New boots offer modern features and better fit
⚠️ Ignoring Foot Pain or Numbness
- Persistent pain = something’s wrong
- Refit, adjust, or heat mold if needed
- Don’t tough it out endlessly – comfort is crucial
- It’s okay to get help or re-fit your boots
🪢 Skipping Proper Lacing & Care
- Lace snug through foot/ankle for support – not loose or overly tight
- Dry boots/blades after skating
- Use guards off-ice to protect blades
- Care = longer-lasting, better-performing boots
Common Questions Adult Skaters Have About Boots
Lastly, let’s address some frequently asked questions adult skaters tend to have when it comes to figure skating boots. It’s completely normal to have lots of questions – skating gear is a bit of a new world. Here are answers to some common queries:
I’m a heavier skater – do I need special boots or a weight limit?
There are no “weight limit” boots per se, but you should pay attention to support ratings and choose a boot that can handle your build. Heavier skaters often need a boot one notch stiffer than a lighter person at the same skill level. Check manufacturer guidelines; some provide recommendations (e.g., Edea has charts for body weight vs. model). The key is to avoid boots that are too soft – they’ll break down quickly under the pressure, and you’ll feel unstable. A sturdy beginner boot or intermediate boot is usually fine. And don’t worry, there are adult skaters of all weights enjoying the ice – just get a supportive boot and you’ll be good. If you’re concerned, talk to a fitter; they might reinforce a boot or suggest a certain brand known for durability. (Also, ensure the blade’s screws are solid – heavier skaters might use extra screws in the plate for security, but that’s something a tech will handle.)
I’m over 50 (or 60, or 70) – is there an age beyond which certain boots are not recommended?
Age itself isn’t a limiting factor; it’s more about your physical condition and skill. There are skaters in their 60s and 70s who skate beautifully. That said, if you’re an older adult, comfort and safety might be higher priorities. You may opt for a slightly softer boot if you value mobility over jump support (especially if you’re doing mostly dance or freestyle without big jumps). Some older adults prefer cushioned, padded models (like recreational Jackson SoftSkates or comfort-fit Riedells) just for casual skating. But if you’re actively training elements, use the same criteria as any adult. One thing to consider: as we age, feet can swell or our circulation might be different, so ensure the boot isn’t so tight it causes issues. There’s no boot you can’t wear because of age – it’s about what helps you skate your best and enjoy it.
I have orthotics from my doctor – can I put them in my figure skates?
In many cases, yes! Most figure skate boots have removable insoles that you can swap out for your custom orthotic inserts. Make sure the orthotic fits in the boot (sometimes you may need to trim it or ensure it’s not too thick). Using orthotics can greatly help if you have issues like flat feet or plantar fasciitis. As mentioned earlier, orthotics can improve your alignment and comfort (houstonskatesports.com). If the orthotic makes the boot feel too tight, you might need to adjust sizing or have the boot stretched slightly. It’s a good idea to mention this during a fitting. Some skate brands (Riedell’s R-Fit, Edea’s E-sole) have their own orthotic-friendly insoles too. But generally, yes – you can and should use your prescribed orthotics in your skates if you need them.
Can I use the blades from my old skates on new boots?
Often, yes. If your old blades are still in good condition (not too worn down or rusted) and you like them, you can have them mounted on your new boots. This is common when upgrading boots but keeping the same level of blade. Just make sure the blade size (length) matches the new boot’s sole length. A skate technician can determine if the blade fits the new boot (usually the blade should span from near the heel to slightly short of the toe, within about 1/4″). If the old boot size and new boot size are close, it’s usually fine. They’ll drill new holes in the new boots to attach your blade. One thing: if you’re drastically changing boot size or brand, you may need a different blade length. Also, consider if this is a good time to upgrade the blade – for example, if you moved from a beginner set to a better boot, you might want a better blade to go with it. But if budget is a concern, reusing blades is a smart way to save money. Just have a professional do the mounting for proper alignment.
How often do I need to replace my boots?
It depends on usage and skill. Adult recreational skaters who go out once a week and are not doing heavy jumps can have boots last for many years (5+ years is not uncommon if the boot is well-made). You replace boots when they either don’t fit anymore (for example, some adults might gain/lose weight or have feet flatten a bit over time), or when they lose support (the boot is broken down). Signs of breakdown include: the ankles feel floppy no matter how tight you lace, the leather is cracked or the sole is coming loose, or you just no longer feel secure on landings/edges because the boot is too soft. For adults who are actively jumping a lot or skating several times a week, you might go through boots faster – maybe every 1-2 years, as the repeated impact eventually breaks them down. Also, if your skating level advances and you outgrow the boot’s support (e.g., you bought a beginner boot but now you’re landing axels), that’s a time to replace. Blades can often last through multiple boot lifespans if well cared for, so you might change blades less frequently than boots. Always inspect your boots every so often – if you see something like a cracked sole or loose heel, address it (sometimes boots can be repaired by a cobbler or the manufacturer, but often it means it’s time for new ones).
Should I buy boots and blades separately or a combined set?
For brand new skaters and those at lower levels, a combined set (boots with factory-mounted blades) is perfectly fine and often more cost-effective. All the beginner models we mentioned (Jackson Mystique/Artiste, Riedell Sparkle, etc.) come as sets. These blades are usually adequate through basic skills and beginning jumps. As you progress, you may want to choose boots and blades separately to customize your setup. By intermediate level, many skaters buy boots and then a better blade (the shop mounts it). Separate blades like the MK Professional, JW Coronation Ace, etc., can offer better performance for advanced skills. But there’s no need to do that until your skating justifies it. In short: Beginners: sets are fine. Intermediate/advanced: probably separate boots & blades. If you do buy separately, be sure to account for the extra blade cost in your budget and get them professionally mounted.
Can I buy used boots to save money?
You can, but caution is advised. Used boots can be a great value if you find a pair that was lightly used and happens to fit you well. However, boots mold to the original owner’s foot and may have wear patterns that don’t match yours. A used boot might already be broken down (check how creased the ankle is, and if it still feels supportive). If you go the used route, try to stick to high-quality brands/models (don’t buy used cheap rec skates – those are usually pretty toast if used at all). It’s better to buy a higher model used than a low model used, if that makes sense. For example, a used intermediate boot might still have life and give you good support, whereas a used beginner boot is likely done. Also, fit is critical – you often can’t be as picky with used; you get whatever size the seller has. Don’t compromise on size/fit just because the deal is good. Another consideration: often used boots come without blades or the blades might need replacing, so factor that cost in. If you’re on a tight budget, one strategy is to buy a used higher-level boot that’s in good shape and pair it with a new decent blade, or vice versa. Finally, disinfect or clean them well – secondhand boots might have some odor or bacteria from the previous owner (you can use a spray or even rubbing alcohol to wipe the inside).
My feet get cold or numb on the ice. Is it the boots?
Cold feet can be from the tightness (reduced circulation) or simply the ice temperature. Ensure you’re not lacing so tight that you cut off blood flow – you should be able to bend your knees without your feet going numb. Wiggle your toes occasionally while skating to keep blood moving. Wearing thin silk or moisture-wicking socks can help keep feet warm (sweaty cotton socks will make feet colder). Some skaters use neoprene boot covers to keep the boots insulated. If numbness persists, it could be a fit issue (boot pressing on a nerve). Try loosening just a tad over the instep, or add a thin insole under your foot’s ball to lift it a bit off any pressure point. But generally, slight chill is normal, outright numbness is not – address lacing or fit if it’s the latter.
Any tips for lacing my boots properly?
Yes! How you lace can make a big difference in support and comfort:
- Snug in the lower foot: Make sure the laces are pulled snug through the hooks/eyelets over the foot (arch area). You want your heel locked in. A common mistake is leaving the lower lacing too loose, which leads to heel slip.
- Don’t overtighten the top hooks: You need to bend your ankle, so while the boot should be snug at the top, it shouldn’t be cranked so tight that you can’t flex. Some skaters even lace the top a tad looser to allow knee bend (especially if the boot is very stiff).
- No slack anywhere: Remove all slack as you lace up. A useful trick: after lacing the foot and before the hooks, kick your heel back into the boot (to set your heel) and then tighten the laces firmly. As you go up the hooks, you can wrap the lace around the hook fully once or twice. Some people do a “reef knot” around the middle hooks to lock tension (look up “lace locking” for skates if curious).
- Finish securely: Tie a tight bow (double knot it so it doesn’t come undone). Tuck the loops in so you don’t trip on them or they don’t catch your blade.
- During skating: If your feet hurt or feel numb after 10–15 minutes, you might have laced too tight – you can hop off and re-lace slightly looser in that spot. Conversely, if you feel your foot moving around, you might need to tighten up. Don’t be afraid to adjust. Even experienced skaters sometimes re-tie after warm-up.
Proper lacing is something you get a feel for with practice. A well-laced boot will feel supportive but you should still be able to lean your knees forward over your toes.