Figure skaters perform jumps, spins and footwork on ice using specially designed ice skates. These skates feature stiff leather boots and steel blades with teeth, or toe picks, at the front. Because of their stiff construction, ice skates must be chosen carefully to fit the skater's foot. Poorly fitted skates can cause blisters or other foot conditions that can take the fun out of skating and slow progression. When choosing skates, consider the length, width and boot design to find the best-fitting skates for your feet.
Step 1
Place a measuring tape on the floor, with the "0" end touching the wall. Stand with your back to the wall and your right foot on the tape. Make sure your heel is touching the wall, then record the measurement from the wall to the tip of your longest toe. Repeat this process to record the measurement for both feet. When sizing skates, use the larger of these numbers.
Step 2
Review size charts for the brand of skates you're considering. Find your foot length in the chart to determine your skate size. Note that one foot measurement can represent different skate sizes depending on the brand. For example, a woman with a 9-inch foot is a size 4 1/2 in Riedell skates, but a size 5 1/2 in SP Teri skates according to the company size charts.
Step 3
Sit in a chair and place your tape measure on the ground beneath you. Wrap the tape around the widest part of your foot. Pull the tape snugly but don't let the tape press into your skin. Check the measurement on the tape, then repeat this process to measure the other foot. Use the larger of the two measurements when buying skates.
Step 4
Check the size charts to determine the correct skate width. Start by locating your skate size based on the measurements you took earlier. Choose the width of your skates from the size chart based on the diameter of your foot.
Step 5
Purchase your skates in the size you've selected. Only buy skates from a specialty skate shop or from a retailer that allows you to return or exchange skates that don't fit properly.
Step 6
Try on your new skates. Lace up the skates and tie them, then check the fit. You should not be able to lift your heel within the skate. Your toes should lie flat, and you should have a bit of room to wiggle them up and down. While some tight spots can be expected, return your skates if they make your toes feel pinched, your feet feel numb or allow your heel to slip around inside the boot.
Tips and Warnings
- Have skates fitted by an experienced professional whenever possible. They can find the best fit for feet with combination widths or unique sizing issues.
- Never choose skate size based on shoe size. Skates often run as much as 2 1/2 sizes smaller than shoes, depending on the brand.
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