Surely many of us remember well how recently skates were appreciated. Most parents of modern adolescents, or their grandparents, happily mastered the skating rinks in the yard, or even ice-covered lakes and rivers on a wide variety of skates. The main thing is to have boots that securely fix the foot and sharp blades that provide speed and maneuverability. Today the situation has changed radically. Manufacturers offer a wide variety of skates depending on age and skill level. How to choose the best figure skating skates for 2020.

How to choose skates according to age

Most manufacturers categorize figure skating skates into children, juniors and adults.

• Skates for children are usually limited to size 33. Of the features, it is worth noting sliding skates and boots, with two parallel blades. It is no secret that in childhood the leg grows quickly and many parents prefer to hedge themselves somewhat by buying products for growth. But, a big backlog prevents to ride. Therefore, the best way out is to purchase sliding skates that can be adjusted from 1 to 3 sizes. The second feature is the double blades, allowing beginners to feel confident on the ice. However, their parents should remember that none of them are suitable for professional figure skating. If children do not just skate on open or closed rinks, but attend a section, then these models will have to be forgotten.
• Junior or teen models typically feature vibrant colors, natural materials and lightweight construction. The size range varies from 33 to 38 sizes and often overlaps with adult models.
• Adult models start from size 38 and feature a reinforced sole. The rest of the choice depends on the level of skiing and the desire to improve it.

However, the selection criteria depend not only on age and size range. Much depends on how and where beginners and advanced skaters are going to skate. For most users, the requirements are in natural materials, the rigidity of the boots, the strength of the sole, and low wear of the blades.

How to choose skates depending on the purpose

Further choice of model determines the tasks that the skater sets for himself. It's one thing if skates are needed for walking or light skating on a city ice rink. And it is completely different if there is a desire to master the basics of professional figure skating.

• The simplest models, or as they are also called, fitness models are most often purchased for simple skating on the rink. Suitable for beginners and experienced skaters who prefer quiet skating without performing pirouettes and jumps. They are made from natural or artificial materials, it is easy to choose models with insulation. They have an attractive design. They are good both for family pastime on the rink and for little skaters until they decide whether to associate their life with figure skating.
• Semi-professional models are perhaps the best choice in terms of price / quality ratio. The boots are characterized by a high level of rigidity and excellent fixation of the foot, which allows performing a variety of tricks.The use of mainly natural materials for the execution of the outer and inner parts of the boot increases their hygroscopicity. With some effort, you can choose models with a reinforced plastic sole and removable blades.
• Skates for professional skating are good in everything. They combine ergonomics, functionality, durability, and have a considerable margin of safety. The price is a little scary. And the second point is to select them better with a coach who can take into account all the nuances. Including the height and weight of the skater. Only in this case, they will help to ascend the podium.

Before buying, you should carefully weigh all the points. Professional figure skating equipment is expensive. Fitness models wear out pretty quickly. Their purchase is justified for children whose leg grows rapidly, or for adults who visit the rink several times a year. If sliding on ice is one of your favorite activities, then you should pay attention to semi-professional skates.

Price, brand, size

What to look for when choosing skates.

• Cost and brand. This is the case when it is worth overpaying a little, but buying skates from a well-established manufacturer. Low-quality synthetic material, low rigidity, and a last made without taking into account anatomical features, cause discomfort while riding and threaten with serious injuries. When choosing skates for figure skating, you should pay attention to companies such as GRAF and Bauer, which have been on the market for over 90 years. Russian manufacturers are also praised, the best of which are "Sports Collection", "NORDWAY" and "ICE BLADE". However, you should pay attention to the reviews.
• The main mistake waiting for buyers when choosing is the wrong size selection. Shoes are measured on the toe in which they intend to ride. It is difficult to find a universal solution. But if the purchase is made for walking in the fresh air or riding on open skating rinks, then it is better to give preference to models with internal insulation. Conversely, for intense workouts, a fabric or velveteen finish is suitable. When fully lacing, the shoe should fit snugly on the foot. The feeling of compression and discomfort suggests that it is better to try on boots one size larger or pay attention to another model. Do not trust sellers that the skin will stretch a little, and the faux fur will cover. It may happen, but it may not.

Another important point is the stiffness of the boot. It is checked by squeezing it at the base of the heel. The higher the stiffness, the lower the risk of injury to the ankle. But you shouldn't forget about comfort either.

Review of popular models

Below are the popular models of various price categories and workmanship.

Larsen white

Not a bad model for girls taking their first steps on the ice. Children like the exterior in snow-white color. Little skaters feel like real princesses. Parents love the neatness of the tailoring and the velveteen lining that allows skating in indoor ice arenas without a sock. The soft lining does not chafe the foot, and the lacing with hooks fixes the ankle well. The outer surface is made of hard vinyl for rigidity and durability. Even for novice skaters, boots will be in perfect condition for a long time, without chips or scratches.

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The cost of the model is 1600-1700 rubles. By the way, the size range from 26 to 37 sizes makes it possible to choose skates for girls and women.

ACTION PW-232

The Chinese company "ACTION" has appeared on the domestic market not so long ago. One of the advantages is an affordable price. At the same time, the model is made of tough eco-leather and provides a high level of safety while riding. Cotton fabric interior, good hygroscopicity. The sole with a rigid instep support and high-quality stainless steel blades are a nice bonus for this price category. Skates are suitable both for the first steps on the ice and for measured skating and even performing simple exercises.

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Most buyers find the ACTION PW-232 a great option for beginners. The low cost, about 1400-1500 rubles, allows you to change skates as you grow without harming the budget. Or put them on the shelf if the child changes his mind about figure skating.

Fashion Jeans

The domestic manufacturer "Sports Collection" regularly pleases fans of figure skating with extraordinary models. So Fashion Jeans for young girls surprises with its design. It's hard to say that the top of the boot, styled like jeans with many stitches and small details, is actually good quality faux leather. By the way, the universal blue color, almost a win-win choice for any suit.

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The cost of the "Fashion Jeans" model varies from 2500 to 2700 rubles.

Jackson js1993 marquis

Someone, and manufacturers of goods for figure skating from Canada, know how to attract a buyer. An excellent model for young men, which will accompany the previous one for women. Austere, stylish, without unnecessary details, they are ideal for performing on the ice. The model is designed for experienced skaters with leg sizes up to Russian 39th.

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Many buyers are not satisfied with the high cost. The set will cost 18,100-18,500 rubles. But it is worth considering - it is intended for performances. Even if it is not world-class yet.

ICE BLADE Luna

Model for women developed by the Russian company "Record Sporting" and manufactured in China. Stylish and durable. Suitable for both beginner athletes and semi-professionals.

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All the disadvantages are altered by the cost of skates at 1500-1700 rubles. Ideal if their owner is not going to jump a triple toe loop.

Botas david

Elegant model for men, Made in Italy. Suitable for professionals. Stylish and laconic in performance, it will not distract attention, both from the exercises performed and from the partner.

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Amateurs consider the cost of a set of 7000-7500 rubles to be somewhat overpriced. Experienced skaters put it in a row with the best price / quality ratio.

Princess Lux 100% Leather

Another skate that is highly appreciated by experienced amateurs and professional athletes, but from the women's line. The Sport Collection company has developed a set with removable blades, which significantly extends the lifespan of the boots themselves.

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GRAF TOPAS

Women's set from the world manufacturer of figure skating products from Switzerland. It is difficult to say what professional athletes think of him, but amateurs rate his qualities very highly.

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Choosing skates is not an easy task. Even if they are bought for simple walks. But how much pleasure can you get when going to the skating rink with the whole family? A huge amount of impressions and vivid emotions. And quite a bit of pleasant tiredness.