Buying Hockey Skates

This guide is for use before, during, and after the purchase of skates for hockey or ice hockey.

Before you buy hockey skates

There is a significant difference in quality, fit, and size among the various hockey brands.
Generally, price and quality are correlated.

Please use this table as a rule-of-thumb for quality and size selection:

If you are still growing, you may choose to buy your skates ½-1 size larger to use them a little longer.
However, if you buy them too big, they will not provide proper support, and you will lose stability and power when skating.

When buying hockey skates

Try on the skates with the socks you plan to use when skating.
Try on more than one skate model to compare fit and quality.
Be aware that some of the more expensive hockey skates are heat moldable and can be heat molded to fit your feet after purchase. When buying these skates, they do not have to fit 100% perfectly because the heat molding shapes the skate to fit your feet.

1. Loosen the laces enough for your foot to easily slip into the boot. Press your toes as far forward as you can. The size fits you when you can just put a finger behind the heel in the boot.
2. Put on both skates. Lace the skate firmly, but not too tight. Get up and walk around to feel how the skate fits. There should not be any painful pressure points.
3. Push the heel all the way back to ensure you have the correct support for the heel. Your heel should not be able to move when it is all the way back in the boot.
4. Ensure there is space for the center of the foot and the toes and that there are no painful pressure points.
5. Bend your knees. The skate should be flexible and allow you to bend your knees to maintain a good hockey position.
6. Apply sideward pressure in the skate. The skate should be stiff and provide a lot of support to allow you to skate comfortably and powerfully.

Find our Ice Hockey Skates Selection here.