Anyone who has watched a hockey game knows that players stop and start suddenly, as well as accelerate rapidly. According to Exploratorium, professional hockey players have been clocked at speeds over 20 mph. The combination of speed and agility required for hockey makes skate selection very important. Weight, time spent on the ice and position played are factors in choosing skates. Consider all three carefully when selecting skates for the beginning player.
Type
The first skates you purchase to begin learning the game of hockey should be designed especially for hockey. Don't try to use figure skates or recreational skates. Hockey skates have special padding, which gives protection against sticks and pucks. Figure skates resemble light boots with the blade screwed to the boot. Figure skaters change blades at times and the skates are designed to facilitate this. Hockey blades measure shorter and don't have the toe pick on the end that figure skaters use to perform jumps, according to Pro Hockey Stuff website.
Price Range for Beginners
Hockey skate pricing varies considerably, with the stiffer boots at the high end of the range. As of 2010, prices range from $75 to $600, according to Hockey Monkey. Beginners should not start with high-end skates. The stiffness of the more expensive skates is not for lighter weight players, especially children who will not have the weight to break in a stiff boot. Beginners, both adults and children will not spend enough time on the ice to break in the stiffer boot. Another consideration for beginning children is that they will quickly outgrow expensive skates.
Fit
A good fit figures high in important to all players, but beginners especially, should get a professional fitting at a skate shop. Don't try to purchase a first pair of hockey skates online. Skates should never be too large, as this will cause blisters and pain. It is actually better to have skates a little small than too large. Too large skates will only get worse as the boot stretches. Thicker socks will not correct the problem, as the feet will still have too much room to move, causing blisters. Skates that are a little too small can always be stretched by a professional for a better fit. Children who need room to grow should only have about a fingers width of space at the toe. Plan on purchasing new skates once a year for a growing child, another reason not to purchase very expensive skates for a child.
Position
Position on the team may influence the type of skate needed. If you will play forward, you should look for a lighter skate since you will make quick turns, according to Pro Hockey Stuff. Defense positions should have a skate with plenty of padding to protect feet and ankles for blocking shots. Skates for goalies have a lower boot, wider blade and more padding including a outer boot protector. If you are not sure what position you will play, consider adding hockey ankle pads to a skate designed for a forward, advises Pro Hockey Stuff.
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