Your hockey skates do more than just allow you to glide across the ice. The high stops and stiff sides of the skate provide foot and ankle support for pivoting and lateral movements necessary when skating aggressively and competitively. Snug hockey laces are the key to providing your foot with the proper support: too loose and the foot doesn't receive support and too tight, they lose proper circulation. Tie your hockey skates tightly for the most comfortable wear while on the ice.
Step 1
Loosen all of the laces, starting at the top and working your way to the bottom, tugging on each loop until both sides are slack in each row.
Step 2
Place your foot in the skate, then stabilize your skate on the floor.
Step 3
Ensure that the first row of laces lies flat on the tongue of the skate. Laces that twist cause excess pressure and discomfort on the foot. Starting at the bottom, hold both loops for each row of laces and pull them snugly, but not so tight that they hurt or cut off circulation.
Step 4
Continue moving up the length of the skate, tightening each row of laces individually for the best fit.
Step 5
Tie the ends into a double bow. Avoid wrapping the laces around the top of the skate. While it might seem that the extra tightness gives you an advantage, the practice can cause an injury known as "lace bite," where the laces actually cut into the skin around the ankle.
Step 6
Stand in your skate and move your foot. Your toes, foot and ankle should feel snug and secure, but the skate shouldn't inhibit movement and reflex. When you have the right fit, repeat the process on your other skate.
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