Features of fitness skates

If you are planning to go in for speed skating or figure skating, you will need ice skates. The specialized sports stores offer a wide selection of different models. At the same time, not all of them are suitable for skaters who are just taking their first timid steps on the ice.

You can find fitness skates at every rental point on the ice rink, and purchase them at all sporting goods stores. Such models are suitable for obtaining basic sliding skills. They are considered as a recreational type of skate and are intended for amateur figure skating on an ice arena or an open skating rink. They are distinguished by a variety of designs and affordable cost.

In terms of their external parameters, fitness skates can resemble both roller skates and classic curly patterns. Many inline skate manufacturers have simply replaced the wheels with blades and released a practical skating attachment. Most often, the design provides for an insulated boot inserted inside. This keeps the foot warm even in the coldest weather.

Fitness skate blades are made of alloy or carbon steel. The platform of the shoe is lightweight; elastic polymers are used to create the sole, so that the load is evenly distributed over the entire foot. This is a simplified version of an athletic shoe.

The average man in the street cannot immediately determine what are the main differences between fitness skates and curly professional models.Nevertheless, there is a difference - and a very significant one.

Boots for professional riding are made from three to five layers of leather, this allows them to give them the necessary rigidity. Walking models are made of soft synthetic materials to make them as comfortable as possible for the foot.

The professional skate has longer blades and more teeth on the front block than hobby shoes. This allows skaters to perform challenging tricks.

Shoes for professional athletes have a higher boot height than walking shoes.

There are differences between fitness skates and hockey products. This sport uses a specific sliding technique, so hockey boots are longer and stiffer than walking boots.

Walking skates in retail outlets are presented in the widest assortment and in different designs. There are women's, men's and children's shoes. All of them are characterized by their specific features.

In terms of their external characteristics, women's skates resemble figure skating shoes. They are distinguished by a special design, thought out to the smallest detail - it was created specifically taking into account the anatomical features of the female foot.

Male models are more like hockey models. They are produced without teeth, have a larger size and a laconic design - usually black and gray colors are combined here. The shoe is made taking into account the peculiarities of the structure of the male leg.

Children's skates are produced in several versions: they come with one or two blades. One-size models can be found on sale, but sliding ones are most often offered for children. They allow you to adjust the length in the range from 3 to 5 sizes - this is very convenient when it comes to children whose legs are growing very quickly.

A separate type of children's skates are sliding structures in the form of a steel platform without shoes. Such shoes can be attached to ordinary winter shoes with fasteners, clips or belts. And of course, children's products are produced in rich colors: pink for girls and blue for boys.

Despite the fact that walking options have significant differences from curly ones, most of the well-known brands of the segment in question periodically release walking products for sale. Their cost in stores varies from 1.5 to 4 thousand rubles. The following samples are included in the TOP of the most demanded brands.

This is a Chinese company that produces fitness skates for kids, teens, and adults at a budget price. Among the advantages are:

• sliding mechanism;
• soft double-sided insulation;
• the possibility of fixing on clips, laces or belts.

The heel and toes are reinforced for a safe ride and protection from washers. The blades are made of 53HRC steel. The cost of such skates is about 3000 rubles.

Another Asian firm known all over the world. However, on the territory of our country, its products are presented in small volumes. These are affordable and practical products of average quality.

The most popular model of women's fitness skates made of PVC with a sliding mechanism. The skates are distinguished by a comfortable last and firm hold, fastened with Velcro, clips or laces. The blade is made of a mixture of carbon and iron, with proper care it will not rust for a long time. In stores, you can buy a pair of these skates for about 2 thousand rubles.

The Canadian company is one of the leaders in the ice skate market. Its history goes back almost 100 years. The brand is considered a recognized leader in the segment of professional products.

A separate line is intended for beginner athletes. These skates are comfortable to wear and durable. They firmly fix the ankle, are lightweight, and besides, they repel water. The blades are slightly curved at the edges for extra stability when sliding.

Popular Czech brand offering skates for adults and younger generations. You can buy them at a reasonable price - about 2 thousand rubles. The products are distinguished by a high level of rigidity and a reinforced upper layer of protection of the legs from washers. All children's models are sliding, adjustment provides 3-4 sizes.

When choosing fitness skates, you need to focus on the quality of the metal from which the blades are made, as well as on their thickness and stiffness. Special attention should be paid to the ability of the upper material for optimal thermal insulation and water resistance. User comfort and convenience should be the main criteria for choosing any walking model. The beginner's foot should not wobble, and the fixation should be as tight as possible. Rocking is not allowed - only in this case riding will be as safe as possible.

There are several options for fixing fitness skates:

• with Velcro;
• on classic lacing;
• in the form of a micrometric clip.

Most of the budget models include several lacing options at once - this ensures the safety of the athlete.

There are other rules for choosing skates for walking on an ice rink.

• It is better to buy skates in the evening, when the leg swells and increases in size. In addition, when trying on, it is advisable to wear the socks in which you plan to ride in the future. Fitness skates are fitted exactly to the size. If the shoes are loose, the likelihood of injury increases dramatically, and too small will cause significant pain and discomfort.
• It is important that the boot firmly fixes the foot and fits snugly around it. Rigid models provide maximum ankle protection. If in the process of skating you are not going to perform curly tricks, it is better to opt for soft boots.
• All skates for walking on ice may differ in the material of the upper. Synthetic fabric is easy to care for and more durable. Such shoes are much lighter, so people who are just mastering figure skating will be much more comfortable. In addition, synthetics can retain their attractive appearance for several years.
• Experienced users love genuine leather products. Due to their high weight, they increase the efficiency of training. Such models are good if figure skating is perceived not only as a pleasant walk, but also as a power load.
• The blade is chosen based on the riding experience. The thicker it is, the more stable a person will hold on to them.The stability of a sports skate depends on the curvature and length of the blade. The higher they are, the more maneuverable the skates will be. You also need to focus on the quality of the steel. The amount of carbon in the alloy determines its susceptibility to rust and the rigidity of the product. The better the steel, the less often you have to sharpen your skates.