Buying Hockey Skates

This guide is for use before, during, and after purchasing 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, consider purchasing your skates ½-1 size larger to extend their usability.
However, if they are too big, they won't provide adequate support, leading to a loss of stability and power while skating.

When Buying Hockey Skates

Try on the skates with the socks you will use while skating.
Test multiple skate models 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 need to fit perfectly initially because the heat molding process will shape them to your feet.

1. Loosen the laces enough so that your foot can easily slip into the boot. Push your toes as far forward as possible. The size fits when you can just place a finger behind your heel in the boot.
2. Put on both skates. Lace them firmly but not too tightly. Stand up and walk around to feel how the skates fit. There should be no painful pressure points.
3. Ensure your heel is pushed all the way back to provide the correct heel support. Your heel should not move when it is all the way back in the boot.
4. Ensure there is space for the center of your foot and toes, and there are no painful pressure points.
5. Bend your knees. The skate should be flexible and allow knee bending to maintain a good hockey position.
6. Apply sideward pressure to the skate. It should be stiff and provide ample support for comfortable and powerful skating.

Find our Ice Hockey Skates Selection here.