Choosing properly fitted hockey skates is a key consideration of safe and successful skating technique. Skates that are are too lose or too tight can compromise your skating ability and lead to injury. Since feet come in all different sizes and widths, you can purchase hockey skates to fit even the widest of feet.
Standard Skate Width
Hockey skates come in a wide variety of widths. Widths are presented by a letter. This letter comes after the size of a skate and indicates how wide the skate is. The width sizing for hockey skates may vary by brand. As a result, you may want to check with a sales associate for more details on sizing. A standard width will be represented by the letters "A," "D" OR "R." A majority of hockey players fit into these standard widths.
Wider Width Skates
Having wide feet does not mean that you will be stuck wearing uncomfortable hockey skates. A majority of hockey skate manufacturers make wider skates. Wider fitting skates may be indicated by "E," "W," "EE" or "EEE." "EE" and "EEE" skates are generally extra wide widths. Different brands of hockey skates may vary slightly in width. If you have wide feet, you are more than likely aware of this fact. If you are unsure, start by trying on a standard width and go from there.
Width Sizing
A simple measurement test can help determine the width of your feet. Outline your foot on a sheet of paper. Use a ruler to measure the length and the widest part of your foot in inches. Divide the width of your foot by the length of your foot. For example, a length of 10.3 inches and a width of 4.2 inches gives you a width sizing of 2.45. If you come up with a number higher than 2.65, a normal size width should be acceptable. An "E" width is normally acceptable if you have a sizing number between 2.5 and 2.65. For a number under 2.5, you will likely need an "EE" or "EEE" width.
General Skate Sizes
Hockey skates are made in youth, junior and senior sizes. Skate sizes are based on male shoe sizing. A majority of hockey players will wear skates that are a full size or half a size smaller than their regular street shoes. Senior-sized hockey skates come in sizes 6 to 15. Junior sizes run from 1 to 5 1/2. Youth-sized hockey skates come in sizes 6 to 13 1/2. Most hockey skates are nonreturnable after purchase; always try on your skates before buying. Wear the type of socks you normally wear while playing hockey to ensure a proper fit. Sizes may also vary slightly depending on what brand you purchase.
Skate Buying Tips
Hockey skates need to fit snugger than your street shoes. They should fit tight at the heel but be comfortable when laced. This provides for stability while skating. Try skates on in the afternoon as your feet tend to swell throughout the day. When buying skates for children, avoid the temptation of buying skates a child can grow into. Skates that are too large can hinder playing ability and result in foot and ankle injuries.
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