A hockey skate is composed of a lace-up boot that is attached to a holder where a blade screws in. The composition of the skate will affect the price. The price of adult hockey skates ranges from $50 to $600. As skates rise in price the biggest differences will be in the lightness of the boot and greater durability. The average recreational skater will want to spend about $200 dollars to buy an adequate pair of skates.
What to Look for
When buying hockey skates, you can expect the skate to be up to 2 1/2 sizes smaller than your regular shoe size. You want the skate to fit snugly, with your heel all the way back and your toes brushing the front. If you are looking for child skates, the fit will be similar. The only difference is that a child should have a finger's width of room between their toes and the boot. More than that and the skate will be too big. Another thing to look for is a skate with a blade made from stainless steel, which will stay sharpened longer and resist rust, unlike blades made from carbon steel. Stainless steel blades can be found on adult skates over $100 and children skates over $70. Many skates in this price range will also come with thermal molding, where the skate conforms to your foot once heat is applied and then sets as the skate cools. This allows for a better fit and makes the skate more comfortable. Skates also come in different levels of stiffness, which affects the part of the boot above the ankle. Your weight and level of experience determines what level of stiffness you need. Generally lighter or novice players are going to need a skate with less stiffness, where a heavier or more advanced player will need one with more stiffness.
Common Pitfalls
Sometimes people assume that they should buy a skate in their regular shoe size, when they really need a smaller one. Hockey skate sizes run differently from street shoes sizes so your regular shoe size will be too big if you try it with hockey skates. People who are shopping for their first pair of skates also tend to buy skates that are too wide because they aren't accustomed to the snugness of the skate and they assume that it is too tight. Buying a skate that is too big or wide causes ankle instability, severe blisters and an increased risk of injury. Another common mistake is trying to save money by buying skates online. Though these skates will be less expensive, there is also a good chance that they won't fit. Ideally, you want to purchase hockey skates from a pro shop and try on as many different ones as possible.
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