Ranking the best skates for ice skating in 2022

One of the most popular ways to spend time in winter is ice skating. Many people, going to the skating rink, rent equipment. This is reasonable if you ride infrequently. But if you spend a lot of time on the rink, then you should consider purchasing your own pair. This is where a lot of problems arise: which skates to prefer, but what to look for when buying, how to choose the size and what is the rating of the best skates for ice skating? All these questions concern the future owners of sports equipment.

What kind of skates exist

Surely many paid attention to the fact that the shoes of athletes differ depending on the sport. The skates of figure skaters, speed skaters and hockey players are very different. And this applies not only to the appearance, but also to the very design of the skates.

Skates are produced in three main types: for hockey, for figure skating and for speed skating. In some classifications, it is also proposed to separate children's models and pleasure skates, which are used for amateur skating in parks. To understand the question of which models are suitable for a novice athlete, let's look at the features of each type of ice skating shoe.

Hockey skates

This sport is quite traumatic and very aggressive. Therefore, shoes for him are made with the maximum possible protection of the athlete's limbs. It should also protect against blows with a club, an opponent’s skate, hitting a puck and other troubles. Therefore, hockey skate models are made rigid from special synthetic materials. They are equipped with rigid inserts in places that need to be protected more than others.

The toe of such skates is always made of hard plastic. Such a hard boot has several advantages: it supports the ankle and foot well and keeps the legs in the right position.

There are other requirements for hockey models. They must provide high speed to the athlete and not limit his ability to maneuver. In this regard, hockey models have a short radius of curvature and are made without teeth on the blade.This protects against clinging to the ice during sharp and dangerous turns. The smaller area of ​​contact between the athlete and the ice provides high maneuverability, but at the same time it complicates the task of maintaining balance.

Summing up, it can be noted that hockey skates are the best choice for a beginner only if he intends to continue playing this sport. For already trained athletes, hockey skates are quite suitable. They make it possible to develop high speed, do not limit the freedom of maneuver.

Read more about hockey skates in one of the episodes of the Galileo program:

Figure skates

These models are distinguished by a long straight blade that protrudes about 2 cm beyond the heel. There are sharp teeth in the front of the blade, which make it possible to perform various tricks and jumps. But at the same time, the teeth cause a lot of inconvenience to beginners who are not yet able to stand confidently on the ice. They catch all the irregularities of the ice of street rinks and are the cause of many falls. Otherwise, it is figure skates that are considered to be the best option for beginners.

The boot of such skates is made of leatherette or genuine leather. This material allows you to avoid numerous injuries due to the rigid support of the ankle. But such material makes the boot too thin, it is simply cold to ride on the street in a big frost on such skates. To some extent, thermal underwear helps to solve this issue. Figure skate boots are usually made high and laced throughout. This allows you to easily control the degree of fixation of the joint.

pleasure skates

These models do not have any manufacturing standards. The appearance of such skates can be similar to figure skates and hockey skates.A distinctive feature of walking options is a soft insulated boot. The blade of these skates resembles curly ones, but the teeth will not be as large and sharp or may be completely absent.

If the blade is more like a hockey blade, then their degree of rounding will not be too large. Pleasure skates are designed for leisurely skating and enjoying the process, not for learning difficult pirouettes or puck racing.

Walking shoes are very comfortable. They are softer than sports models. The clasp can be classic lacing or like roller skates - buckley. In the latter case, there will also be plastic parts on the soft boot. Such boots are usually insulated so that you can ride in severe frosts. On the other hand, a soft boot does not fix the ankle so well and makes it impossible to perform complex maneuvers.

Children's skates

For kids, skates are equipped with a blade of increased width, which gives additional stability. Some models even have double blades. Such models are recommended for children under the age of 5 years. After the baby gets used to the rink, it is recommended to replace the children's model with a regular one. Parents often buy sliding skates for their children. Outwardly, they look more like amateurs, but their boot is made of plastic. They can vary by 3-5 sizes.

If the child will not just ride for pleasure, but develop in sports, then it is better to immediately purchase the right skates. They can be larger in size, but not more than 1 size. Otherwise, the boot will hang on the foot, which creates the conditions for injury.

How to choose skates

If you have decided on the type of skates, it's time to go to the store to try on and buy. It is very important to buy skates after trying them on. This is the only way to decide whether this pair suits you or not. Don't forget to bring a pair of thick woolen socks with you to wear when you're outdoors.

Criteria for choosing figure skates

Traditionally, figure skates are considered to be female models. Before buying, be sure to put on a pair and walk around in them for a few minutes. Rate your feelings. The boot should not be very tight, at the same time, the foot should not hang out in it. Shoes that are too loose do not fix the ankle well and reduce stability.

The back of the boot should press the heel, and the ankle should be tightly covered by the shaft. If all these conditions are met, and at the same time you feel comfortable in boots, then you have found your pair of skates.
Video tips for choosing figure skates from a trainer:

What are the best walking skates to buy?

If you are going to skate for pleasure and do not intend to play sports professionally, then recreational skates will be an ideal option. These models are suitable for both children and adults.In addition, they use bright and beautiful designs. Many recreational skates have an insulated boot that can be pulled out to dry if necessary.

The criteria for choosing recreational skates are the same as for figure skates. You should feel comfortable in them, and the boot should fit your foot snugly.

What skates to buy for hockey

Hockey skates are more suitable for men. At the same time, they are all divided into amateur, semi-professional and professional models:

• In amateur skates, the boots are soft, they are suitable for beginner athletes. Of the protection elements in these models, only a plastic toe is provided, which protects the fingers. Also, there is no additional adjustment of the boot.
• Semi-professional skates are bought for ice hockey by people who often play and want to improve their level. It provides better protection with a rigid tongue and reliable support on the sides, which is provided by stiffening ribs. Some models of the semi-professional class have special features for adjusting the boot to the anatomical features of the foot.

When choosing hockey skates, you need to consider that they do not fit standard shoe sizes. Therefore, they must be measured. In a suitable boot, the foot should be comfortable. The back of the boot should press the heel tightly, but the fingers should not be pressed to the toe, but only lightly touch it.

Boots for hockey skates also differ in the width of the block. Therefore, if the boots fit you in length, but not in width, then you should just try on another pair.

How to choose skates for a child

Toddlers who are just starting to get comfortable on the ice are ideal models with two blades.These skates are stable and the child will feel confident on them. Then you can purchase a regular model with one blade. It is best to choose figure skates for children that allow you to fix the ankle well.

When trying on, be sure to put on thick woolen socks for your child. Ideal when an adult's finger can hardly be inserted between the boot and the heel. Too tight shoes will be uncomfortable when riding, and in free shoes, the risk of injuring the ankle increases.

The value of what size children's skates start with is Russian size 28. At the same time, keep in mind that for beginners it is permissible to buy skates 1 size larger than necessary. For young hockey players, skates must be bought a size larger than necessary. For ordinary pleasure skating, children can be advised sliding models that change along the length of the boot by 3-5 sizes.
Video tips for choosing children's skates:

Rating of quality skates for men

After considering the main types of skates, their features and selection rules, it will not be superfluous to find out which popular models are currently leading the market. This will help you make the right choice and take into account which company is better to buy skates.

Bauer Supreme One.4

These skates belong to models for hockey, they can be recommended for athletes of any level. The boot is made of high quality nylon, and the inner lining is made of microfiber with water-repellent properties. In these skates, the athlete feels confident on the ice, thanks to the tight fixation of the leg and reliable protection on the sides. Ultra-light foam inserts provide protection and support to the ankles.

For an optimally comfortable position of the foot while skiing, a special heel support and tongue are provided. Additionally, it is worth noting a high-quality sole made of pressed plastic, as well as a glass with a high-quality metal blade.

• little weight;
• boots have fairly good stiffness;
• durable;
• create excellent security;
• tightly fit the leg;
• the tongue has an anatomical shape.

• The laces need to be changed as they are of poor quality.

Cost: from 8990 rubles.

Bauer Vapor X400

This model is designed for beginner hockey players. It can be purchased by owners of foot sizes from 26 to 46, including those with D and EE fullness.

The upper of the boot is made of nylon, the inside is made of synthetic fabrics, which together guarantees good moisture removal. The sole is plastic, the blade is made of stainless steel.

• Comfortable fit due to the presence of an anatomical tongue and ankle inserts;
• Blades are replaceable;
• The foot in the boot does not sweat.

• With increased use in the cold, cracking of the sole is sometimes noted.

Cost: from 4500 rubles.

Bauer NSX S18

Skates are positioned for men, although the size range allows you to try them on a woman's foot. You can choose a pair of sizes from 32.5 to 46th. The NSX series is created by Bauer for those who are new to hockey.

The boot is made of composite material, the interior is synthetic. The sole is plastic with attached stainless steel blades.

Skates can be used both on closed ice and on a street rink, thanks to a frost-resistant glass.

• The presence of anatomical inserts and, as a result, a comfortable fit on the leg;
• Ankle support;
• Reinforced toe;
• The boot is anatomical.

• They are produced for one fullness, which means that they will not suit the owners of a wide foot and a high rise;
• The laces included in the kit have excessive elasticity, "pull" and the ability to dig into the palms with intensive lacing.

Cost: from 5700 rubles.

GRAF Super 103 Sakurai

These ice hockey skates are designed for boys and teenagers. The upper part of the boots is made of high quality combined synthetic fabric. The inner part is made of microfiber and provides soft support for the foot. The bow has reinforced protection against low temperatures. The insoles fit snugly to the feet and have the ability to adapt to the anatomical features of the wearer.

• warm and comfortable lining;
• reliable leg support;
• insoles have an anatomical structure;
• protect well from frost.

• Need help tying shoelaces.

Average price: 3890 rubles.

NORDWAY Laval

For beginners in figure skating and middle-class professionals, this model of figure skates is the most acceptable. Boots in this model are entirely made of genuine leather. Over time, they take the form corresponding to the athlete's foot.

For comfort, special softening inserts are made on the inside of the boot. The lining absorbs moisture well. The lacing is designed with a special cutout designed to prevent the formation of wrinkles and creates the most correct positioning of the foot while riding.

• leather boots;
• convenient anatomical structure;
• anti-corrosion coating of blades;
• have a long service life;
• suitable for male and female athletes.

• it takes time for the boots to adapt to the shape of the foot.

Average price: 2450 rubles.

Rating of the best women's skates

Princess Kid Sports Collection

These skates are for girls. The top on both sides is made exclusively of genuine leather. This contributes to better heat retention. The blades are made according to certification standards from high-quality stainless steel with anti-corrosion treatment, they retain sharpening for a long time. The boot has an elongated shape and perfectly supports the child's ankle during skiing, which is useful for preventing injury.

The boots are decorated with a stylish pattern, which is sure to be appreciated by young skaters. The lacing at the top is finished with hooks for perfect leg support. The medium-hard last allows you to feel comfortable when riding even with a thick toe.

• comfortable model;
• Beautiful design;
• natural materials;
• excellent leg support;
• Blades made of quality material.

• must be carefully tried on when buying.

Average price: 3230 rubles.

Bauer Flow Wmn

This is a walking model for women, it is lightweight, which allows you to unload your legs. This model has a nice appearance in white and gray tones. The boots have soft padding and provide good ankle support. All this creates convenience and comfort when riding.

The boots are laced up with laces and there is also a Velcro strap at the top of the boot.

• light weight;
• nice appearance;
• comfort and warmth while riding.

• require careful handling.

Average price: 5200 rubles.

SK (Sports Collection) Princess Lux 100% Leather

A significant advantage of these skates is the use of leather as a material for interior and exterior decoration. The absence of insulation makes this model more suitable for ice skating. The sole is made of plastic, the blade is stainless steel.

The manufacturer positions these skates as for professionals. The size range is wide, from 25 to 42.

• Foot comfort due to natural, non-hardening material;
• Feet in skates do not sweat;
• Good fixation on the ankle.

• The top scratches easily;
• Riding in the cold will require additional socks, which will affect the fit of the shoe.

Cost: from 3000 rubles.

GRAF Montana Gold

This model from one of the leaders in the production of hockey equipment is designed for beginners on the ice. Available in black and white for leg sizes 25 to 41.

The interior is made of synthetic materials, the tongue is made of felt. The boot has an anatomical shape. The sole is plastic.

• Good tailoring - the lacing area, heels, toe and tongue are completely stitched;
• Comfortable fixation thanks to the anatomical boot;
• Wide size range.

• artificial materials.

Cost: from 4700 rubles.

When choosing skates, you should be guided by the conditions in which they will be used, the style of skating (hockey, walking or figure skates), as well as personal comfort, which can only be assessed by trying on.