What Do I Need?

Skates that are too loose can cause the ankles to “roll” and not create enough support for your foot. It can also lead to foot problems. So with that in mind please take special care when you lace and tie your skates:

1. Loosen the laces all the way down to the toes and give the tongue a tug upwards before placing your foot in the boot.
2. Make sure that the socks have no wrinkles or seams that would irritate the foot, insert your foot into the boot and push down on the heel.
3. Again give the tongue a gentle pull and then secure it straight up and down.
4. Start at the second set of laces from the bottom. Begin pulling the laces tightly, one pair at a time, so the boot closes well over the front of the foot. 
5. You will tighten the laces up to where the hooks begin, where you will make a half twist of the laces or a knot. Then continue up by going over the hooks, under, then across. After you get to the last hook, you can add another half twist and a double-knotted bow. You should be able to put your finger up to your first knuckle behind the laces at the top of the tongue. It is important to tuck in any extra lace at the top of the boot to prevent stepping on it. Do not wrap the extra lace around the top of the boot. The lace can ride up the leg and cause irritation on the tendon, as well as loosen the boot.

The most common issue in lacing skates is to lace too loosely in the ankle area and too tightly at the top of the boot (last two hooks). This provides little support in the ankle area and undue pressure at the top when trying to bend at the ankle.

PRO TIP: Snug at the toe area; tight through the arch and ankle; and snug at the top.

U.S. Figure Skating strongly recommends the use of helmets for beginner skaters of all ages, and I require all my beginning skaters to wear a helmet in private lessons. Children age 6 and under should continue to wear head protection.

To select the helmet that best suites your needs, please consider the following information:

• A helmet should be both comfortable and snug. Be sure that it is level on your head – not tilted back on the top of the head or pulled too low over your forehead. It should not move in any direction. 
• The chin strap should be securely buckled so that the helmet doesn’t move or fall off during a fall or collision. The individual that will be wearing the helmet.

DO:

• Wear the helmet low in front to protect the forehead.
• Fasten buckle and check strap adjustment often.
• Replace your helmet immediately if it shows any visible signs of damage.
• Clean helmet with mild soap/water only.
• Store helmet in a cool, dry place

DON'T:

• Wear anything under your helmet.
• Attach anything to your helmet.
• Wear a helmet that does not fit or cannot be adjusted properly.
• Leave a helmet in direct sunlight or in a car on a sunny day.

Which helmets work for ice skating?
A hockey, skateboard, or ski helmet (multi-sport) will be suitable for use during beginning ice skating lessons. These helmets are designed to withstand more than one moderate impact, but protection is provided for only a limited number of impacts. They should be replaced if visibly damaged. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance on when the helmet should be replaced.

Safety
In addition to wearing a helmet, there are other safety precautions you can take when you are first learning how to skate:

• Dress appropriately: Warm clothes in layers. All my skaters are also required to wear gloves.
• Warm-up and cool down appropriately.
• Know on-ice safety rules.
• Use skill progression to prepare for more difficult elements.