Soft figure skates for children and adults provide an alternative to traditional figure skates. While traditional figure skate boots are made of leather and wood, the boots of soft figure skates are made with plastic, vinyl, and additional padding. This gives soft figure skate boots the feel of inline skate or hockey skate boots.
Riedell 615 SS
Riedell is the only U.S. manufacturer that produces figure skates for top competitors and soft figure skates for children. Riedell's 615 SS provides similar quality as Riedell's traditional figure skates, but it also includes the additional padding and ankle support of a soft skate boot. The 615 SS is available in both children's and adults' sizes and may be purchased in one of two color schemes: pink and white or black and grey, according to Riedell's website.
American Athletic 516
For children who skate only occasionally and do not plan to take lessons, the American Athletic 516 is an economical choice that also provides warmth and comfort on the ice. The blade of the American Athletic features a smaller toepick than a traditional figure skate blade, which can help prevent tripping. The boot has a hardened toe box to prevent damage if another skater accidentally steps on the wearer's foot. The American Athletic 516 has lacing hooks at the top of the skate rather than a strap, so parents may have to help younger children lace and tie these skates properly.
Lake Placid Starglide
The Lake Placid Starglide is a soft-booted skate with a double blade for very young skaters. The double blade helps toddlers and young children balance on the ice. The boot is also cut low to promote knee bends, which help skaters maintain balance. Like most soft figure skate boots, the Starglide is heavily padded with a vinyl exterior to help keep moisture from damaging the boots.
Considerations
Even the best kids' soft figure skates will not promote safety or better skating if they do not fit properly. Skate boots should fit as snugly as possible without cramping the toes. According to the Recreational Figure Skate FAQ, you should not be able to insert more than one finger in the boot at the back of the ankle when the boots are fully laced. For children, buy figure skates that are no more than one-half size larger than the child's proper size. Skates that are too big will break down too quickly, depriving your child of support, and will make it more difficult for your child to learn to skate.
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