What To Look For
Hockey skates provide both ankle support and foot protection during play. It is vital for young hockey players to become comfortable with the tight and secure feeling of a properly fitted skate on their feet. Skate sizes are generally two sizes smaller than street shoe sizes. Begin looking at skate manufacturers with the highest sales: Bauer, CCM, Easton and Graf. These companies have been making skates the longest of skate manufacturers. When trying on skates, be sure to note the amount of protection at the sides of the boot where your child's foot will be exposed to pucks.
Common Pitfalls
Hockey skates are tight and hurt until broken in. If your child does not complain about the boot fitting too tightly, you may have purchased too large a size. When trying on skates, have your child kick his toes to the front of the skate and try to slide a finger into the heel of the skate behind your child's ankle and heel. There should be enough room for a single finger between skate boot and your child's foot. Any more room and the skate is too large; less, and it will not mold correctly.
Where To Buy
There are a number of long-standing catalogue and online retailers of hockey equipment. Among these are Total Hockey, Hockey Giant and Perani's. Buying equipment over the phone or Internet is a good way to save money, but beware of correct sizing. For young and new hockey players it is best to try on many skates in a store. Local stores vary by region and state. Avoid large sporting goods retailers; such stores will not have the correct sizing knowledge of hockey equipment because they do not specialize in it. Instead, find small hockey stores that sell only ice and roller hockey equipment.
Cost
With hockey skates you usually get more as the price increases. The higher the price the safer and better the skate. Good junior hockey skates range in price from $130 to $200 with some above and below that range. Remaining within that range will ensure a solidly-built skate that offers your child the protection needed in a skate boot.
Comparison Shopping
Bauer and CCM are the oldest existing hockey equipment manufacturers and players become loyal customers where skates are involved. Bauer skates are often more difficult to break in, fit looser than CCM skates and are lighter. Bauer skates also provide a little less protection from pucks on the boot. Because of these characteristics, Bauer skates are sometimes preferred by forwards. CCM skates mold relatively quickly to a player's feet and last for many years. These skates are sometimes said to be heavier due to the added rubber on the boot for protection. The prices are equivalent.
Member Comments