What To Look For
Although there are many brands of inline hockey skates, three popular manufacturers are Bauer, CCM, and Mission. There are many styles to choose from but a good start is to look at the entry-level, mid-level, and high-end skate. Bauer's entry-level skate is the Vapor RX 15, mid-level is the RX 25, and the top performer is the RX 60. CCM offers the Vector 04, Vector 08, and Vector 10 while Mission has the Axiom A3, Axiom T6, and Axiom T9. Entry level skates usually have an aluminum chassis, cheaper bearings and wheels, and are heavier due to the more rigid materials needed for beginning skaters. High-end skates feature a magnesium chassis for greater strength with less weight, top-end bearings and wheels, and are made with better form-fitting materials for a more exact fit. They also have more breathable materials to promote cooling. Mid-level skates have good bearings and wheels but still feature an aluminum chassis. The materials are good quality but not as light as high-end skates.
Common Pitfalls
A common pitfall when selecting hockey skates is to get skates that are too big. Skates that don't fit properly will eventually cause pain and hinder performance. Hockey requires too many stops, starts, and quick turns. Proper fitting skates are the single most important gear purchase. Bauer, CCM, and Mission all size down 1 1/2 US sizes. This fact means that someone who wears a size 10 US shoe will wear an 8 1/2 US skate.
Another pitfall is purchasing high-end skates when just starting. Stock bearings and wheels can always be swapped out with higher-end gear.
Where To Buy
Although many retail stores carry inline hockey skates, the selection that Sports Authority or Academy Sports has in stock may be limited. For a wider selection or to find the exact model there are several online retailers that carry a much wider selection than brick-and-mortar stores. InlineWarehouse.com and RollerHockeyMonkey.com carry a large selection of inline hockey skates and other inline hockey gear.
Cost
Most retailers, both in-store and online, have very competitive pricing. The same Bauer RX15 skates that were $129.99 at Sports Authority were listed for $124.99 at RollerHockeyMokey.com. When looking at cost, the Senior model will cost more than the Junior model and the high-end skates will also cost more. The entry level models for Bauer, CCM, and Mission range from $120 to $140. The mid-range skates range from $250 to $300. High-end skates range from $430 to $650. Clearance sales and the previous years' model are good places to look for bargains.
Comparison Shopping
Several reviewers at RollerHockeyMonkey.com gave very positive reviews to the Bauer Vapor RX 25 skates compared to the RX 60 skate. The RX 25 cost quite a bit less than the RX 60's and performed just as well according to the feedback page. Many brands are also comparable in quality as well. Mission makes the most popular skates and was the first company to make skates exclusively for roller hockey. However, personal preference and comfort makes CCM or Bauer the choice for many others. Compare similarly priced skates for fit, form-molding materials, and the quality of the bearings and wheels. Most retailers will price-match as well. If an online retailer has a lower price than a local store, see if they will match the online price.
Accessories
After skates, the wheels and bearing are the most important components for inline hockey skates. If the skates are to be used for both indoors and outdoors, two sets of wheels are needed; one set for inside and one set for outside due to the different surfaces being played on. Also, the better bearings selected for the wheels the faster the skates will be. If speed is a factor then higher-end bearings should be purchased. Another good accessory is an extra set of laces and a lace puller for a tight fit.
Insider Tips
If a lot of gear is to be purchased at one time, look for an inline retailer who offers free shipping. Free shipping is a great way to save money. Hockey skates do need to be broken in. Allow at least several hard skating sessions to complete this process. Many models are "baked" or heat treated to help them conform to the foot. Only a trained technician should do this treatment. Lastly, several companies have merged in the last few years. Nike now owns Bauer and CCM and Reebok have also merged. Bauer also uses Mission bearings on their RX60 models.
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