Like all sports, those done on the ice require specific equipment. Because figure skating, hockey and speed skating require different movements, they all require different types of skates. Each type of skate is designed to help athletes perform their sports better. Skates vary in the types of blades they have as well as how the boot is designed.
Hockey Skates
In hockey, skate blades have a groove running down the center that divides the blade into two edges. These edges help player to stop and start quickly. The blade is also the same length as the boot. Boots come up a few inches above the ankle bone and offer a lot of ankle support. Hockey skates often have a hard toe in the front that protects your foot if it is hit by a puck or stick, or kicked by another skate.
Figure Skates
Figure skates have a similar blade shape to hockey skates, except they have a toe pick. Toe picks are located at the front curve of the blade, and they resemble tiny teeth. These teeth grip the ice and help skaters complete tricks that involve spins and jumps. The boots of figure skates come up a few inches higher than hockey skate boots and have less rigid structure.
Speed Skates
As the name suggests speed skates are designed to help skaters move quickly. The boot is very short, coming to about the ankle. The blade is flat and much longer than the boot. This extra surface area allows you to push off harder against the ice, which makes you move quicker.
Double Blades
New skaters may find double-bladed skates helpful. The two blades on each skate makes you more stable, so you are less likely to fall. These compare to normal ice skates the way roller skate compare to roller blades. They are difficult to move quickly but they help you learn to skate without falling down as frequently.
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