Ice skates for beginners are often called recreational skates. Getting the right fit is essential for the beginning skater. You don't want to mar your first experiences on the ice with an ill-fitting pair of skates and grow disillusioned with the sport before you start.
Features
For beginners, figure skates with blades already attached to the boots works fine. Boots should be moderately stiff for support. Figure skating boots take time to break in. Look for a boot tongue that is padded and stiff. It will help protect your feet and legs from injuries.
Fit
Measure both feet; they may not be the same size. Measure for width in a seated position. Wear thin socks with your skate boots. Brands vary slightly in size, so make sure the fit is right. Lace the boots snugly, with most of the pressure on the top four eyelets. Make certain of the fit before you get the blades sharpened because you might not be able to return the skates afterward.
Brands
Brands and models of recreational boots for beginners include skates such as the Riedell 121 RS. The skate features traditional styling, a split-level tongue for additional comfort and support, Dri-Lex lining to keep your feet dry, foam padding and sharpened Quest blades. Another beginner's model is the Ladies Placid Milan 6000, a traditionally shaped skate with vinyl boots, nylon polyfoam insulation, fur lining and Zinc-plated steel blades. All widths are medium and only whole sizes, not half-sizes, are available.
Considerations
You can expect to pay about $30 to $60 for recreational figure skates, as of July 2011. When you begin to master your moves on the ice, it's time to move up to intermediate boots, also called entry-level boots. At that level, you have more choices and higher-grade materials from which to choose, including leather instead of vinyl boots.
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