Figure Skates

The Characteristics of Figure Skates

Figure skates are crafted for the discipline of figure skating, boasting a more refined and elegant design compared to standard skates. Moreover, figure ice skates feature boots with reduced lining and protective layers than traditional skates.

These skates are available with boots that reach the ankles, and typically use shoelaces instead of fastenings with buckles. Numerous modern figure ice skates utilise faux leather or PVC for construction. These synthetic materials afford greater strength and lighter weight than leather, which offers a benefit in figure skating, particularly when executing tricks. As a proper fit is essential, some individuals have their figure skates customised to ensure a perfect fit for their feet.

Figure ice skates come with steel blades. The blades have a slight curve, visible when observing the skate’s profile. A prominent feature of these skates is the toe pick located at the front of the blades. These toe picks are designed to improve grip, assisting skaters when initiating jumps. Additionally, the blade extends past the heel of the boot to enhance directional stability. The majority of figure skates are made in either white or black, with white typically worn by female figure skaters, and black by male figure skaters. However, other colours are also available in figure ice skates.

How Can Figure Ice Skates Be Used?

While figure skates can be effortlessly utilised for regular ice skating at the rink, they are specifically engineered for figure skating. The earliest figure ice skates appeared in the 19th century, a period when ice skating gained popularity and eventually split into figure skating and speed skating. Figure skating encompasses four distinct disciplines: single skating, pair skating, ice dancing, and synchronised figure skating. Victors in these sports are decided through a unique rating system.

Consult our buying guide for ice skates for guidance on selecting the appropriate size and model.