🧊 Blade TLC: Dry, Guard, Repeat

Real talk: if you leave your blades wet, they will rust—even the fancy ones. So first things first: as soon as you step off the ice, wipe those blades down like they’re sacred. Use a soft towel and get every last drop.

Do: Use hard guards when walking around the rink.
Don’t: Leave hard guards on in your bag (hello, trapped swamp).
Do: Switch to soft soakers after drying—your blades will love you for it.

If you're taking a break (vacay? off-season?), give your blades a kiss of oil (WD-40 works in a pinch) to keep rust away. Just a dab, not a dip.

And sharpening? If you’re slipping where you used to grip—it's time. Most skaters resharpen every 10–30 hours. Keep a log or set a phone reminder.

👟 Boot Vibes: Clean, Breathe, Slay

Your boots carry you through every edge, jump, and oh-so-dramatic spiral. Treat 'em right:

• Wipe down the inside and outside after each skate. Pull out that tongue like you mean it.
• Let everything air out (don’t cook them on a heater—this isn’t a bake sale).
• Leather boots? Use a conditioner now and then to keep 'em soft and supple.
• PU or synthetic? A damp cloth is all you need. Minimalist care, maximum payoff.
• Wax the soles once in a while if you want extra moisture protection. SnoSeal is a fave.
• Fresh socks every session. No exceptions. And if your boots smell funky—it’s time for a deodorizer pouch or bamboo insert.

🔧 Blade Check: Screws, Shifts & Alignment Shenanigans

Loose blades = scary vibes. Once a month, check your mounting screws. If you feel a click or shift, tighten ‘em up with the right tool (don’t strip the screw, babe). Keep a mini screwdriver in your bag like a skate tech boss.

Peek underneath your boots. If you see gunk, cracks, or glue starting to separate—get it looked at. Your balance (and ankles) will thank you.

Toe picks dulling or blade base thinning? Might be time for new hardware. Skate safe, not sketchy.

📦 Storage That Slaps

Done skating? Don’t just yeet your skates into your trunk. Here’s the drill:

• Open that skate bag the second you’re home.
• Unlace your boots, pull the tongues forward, and let ‘em air out like royalty.
• Soft soakers always—NEVER hard guards in storage.
• Stash in a cool, dry, boring place (aka not the car, not the laundry room, not near your shower).
• Taking time off? Oil blades, soaker-up, and check in every month to keep the gremlins (aka rust + mildew) away.

🗓 The AST Skate Care Checklist

✅ After Every Skate

• Wipe blades like a pro
• Switch to soft soakers
• Air out boots—lace-free is the vibe
• Dry interior and remove footbeds if needed

🔁 Weekly

• Wipe down the boot shell
• Inspect blades + screws
• Swap laces, refresh socks, breathe new life into your gear

📅 Monthly

• Condition or deep clean boots
• Check alignment and screw integrity
• Sharpen if you’ve skated 10–30 hrs
• Light oil if skates are taking a nap

🌦️ Off-Season

• Clean and dry everything like your future depends on it
• Blade oil = rust blocker magic
• Store in chill, breathable space (bonus for skate racks!)
• Check on them monthly—don't ghost your gear