Which skates to choose for beginner adults?
Ice lovers tend to buy their own skates. It depends on the correct selection of the model how quickly a person can master riding, whether it will be fun. Poor product selection can lead to blisters, injury and frustration.
Type selection
Walking skates are best suited for ice mastering. They are designed for a relaxed and leisurely ride. Skates are not designed to learn and perform difficult tricks. The fit resembles roller modifications. A person accustomed to rollerblading can easily get used to this type. Walking models are very convenient for gaining the first experience on open rinks.
The design of women's figure skates differs from other types by the existing teeth on the front side of the blades, a heel, as well as long and low runners. These skates are also suitable for beginner adults because they offer great stability due to the straight blade protruding beyond the heel line.
Men can use hockey equipment as their first skates, although this is not ideal for beginners.
It is difficult to maintain balance in ice hockey skates, so a novice hockey player will periodically fall. This type of skate is characterized by rigidity and impact resistance.
Which type of lacing is best?
The quick lacing system is best suited for the beginner as a fixation for the boot. It allows you to adjust the width of the boot according to the foot. The lace is gradually redistributed and straightens out the pressure. The special rivets make the lacing process easier. They can also be used to shorten laces. The frequent placement of the holes provides a secure fit on the leg, which saves the beginner from injury. Adult models must have at least 11 pairs.
The quality of the lacing is checked by squatting, during which the person should not fall back. Cotton laces are the best option because synthetic laces are often untied. The laces can be changed at any time. But the clamps cannot be replaced if necessary, although they wear out quickly.
In addition, full fixation of the boot does not happen due to the impossibility of grasping the whole leg. Clips fix it only at a few points. This can lead to injury to the beginner.
Which material should you choose?
When choosing a model, always pay attention to the material from which the boots are made. It is advisable to choose products made of genuine leather, as they perfectly fit the legs, do not chafe them and retain heat well. Soles made of such leather perfectly absorb moisture, which is of great importance for long-term skiing. The disadvantages include the rapid wear of the boots.
Leatherette products cover the ankle worse and retain heat less, better protect from moisture. But feet can sweat in them.
The plastic holds the leg tightly, so it is easy for beginners to handle the controls. Nylon is a lightweight and tough material that is used to make the hockey version. The synthetic material makes your feet sweat.
Don't forget to ask what material the blades are made of. For beginners, stainless steel or carbon steel works well. Stainless steel blades do not corrode and therefore last a long time. Carbon steel is hard, which contributes to good retention of the sharpening. However, the blades can rust.
Other selection criteria
First, you need to determine what type of skiing you like best. For hockey lovers, ice hockey skates are ideal. For those wishing to do fitness on ice, curly modifications are suitable. They need to be bought according to your foot size. As you ride, tight-fitting boots will stretch a little and take the shape of a leg. Hockey skates should be one size larger due to their rigidity.
The hardest models are designed for jumping, as they protect the legs from injury during landing. The stiffness is determined by pressing the surface of the boot with your fingers. Retention of shape indicates hardness, loss of shape indicates softness.
It is easier to ride in soft shoes, so it makes no sense for beginners to choose boots that are too hard. It is best to stick to the medium version, but people with a lot of weight need to wear stiffer shoes.
Popular models
Beginners should pay attention to the top of the most popular models.
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Graf Super 111 is a frost-resistant modification with reinforced boots and heels. Swiss ice hockey skates fit perfectly on the foot without chafing. The model is suitable for people with wide feet. Comfortable nylon boots look stylish. The blades are made from high carbon steel.
- The Bauer Supreme S140 is a lightweight skate capable of supporting up to 90 kg. The American modification is well suited for people taking their first steps on the ice. The foam inserts in the back of the boot make the garments fit perfectly to the ankles. The leg feels comfortable. The skates glide perfectly on the ice. Replaceable blades are made of stainless steel.
- The Paris Lux Tricot are the most comfortable skates for figure skating. The high heel looks aesthetically pleasing and provides good maneuverability. Products for women are equipped with LED lighting, so you can confidently glide in them on the ice in the dark. They are made of artificial leather that is resistant to low temperatures and moisture. The blades are made of stainless steel.