12 Best Hockey Skates for Beginners: Quality and Price
Are you set to dive, twirl, and slide into the best hockey skates for beginners? In recognition that this article is being read by those relatively new to the Ice Hockey game. Keeping this in mind we’ll guide you through the process of finding the best hockey skates for beginners. I am cognizant to keep importance and balance the specific needs, quality, and price point for the beginner while offering great performance. We will review various entry-level skates, finding a comfortable fit and the right size. We will conclude with a closer look at some good ideas for saving money.
Let’s face it, we have all had poorly fit shoes from time to time. And when your feet hurt, your whole body hurts. I want you to love this game and would hate to hear uncomfortable skates drove your kiddo from the greatest sport (personal opinion) because of ill-fitting skates.
I won’t ignore the fact also, that the price of hockey skates is not something I wish to tackle head-on personally when my son informs me he thinks he has outgrown skates or needs a new pair. At times, I feel the purpose of parents in ice hockey, is nothing more than a check writing, card swiping, and tapping resource.
Ice Hockey has a reputation for being an “expensive sport”, and the cost of new ice hockey skates is not helping its case much.
But, we are hockey parents and we are a resilient bunch. Where there is a hockey will, there is a hockey parent way!
Since I am at the Pure Hockey store near me so much, I have the frequent opportunity to read their hockey heartstring-pulling saying. It is conveniently over the hockey fitting area where these huge picture collages of celebrity NHL players are. The saying reads: “The game is a gift“.
I know, I know…wipe a tear, and then take a grateful breath of fresh icy air that my son is healthy enough to play this game. I end up just sucking it up and trying to enjoy the game and keep swiping the card.
First, Let Them ‘Learn to Skate‘
We obviously began in Learn to Skate before Learn to Play. During Learn to Skate, my kids just wore the rental Figure Skates provided by our rink where they started. And this was fine, and we were told this was optimal. The figure skates were both worn-in and had flexible boots. This provided them with a better feel and ability to perform the moves that they needed to pass before going to the next level in Learn to Skate.
With this being said, your best skates for absolute beginners are the rink-rented skates or the rink may offer “rented” skates with the tuition for the Learn to Skate. Don’t waste your money on a new pair of skates, until your kiddos are committed to making this ice hockey thing a go! Of course, if your kiddos have difficulty fitting in the rented skates or you find they are in poor condition, not sharpened, or cared for properly then you might want to look into other options.
Don’t forget to take a thin pair of socks that will reach over the top of your skates and just let them fly across the ice. Initially, they may be gliding more on their hands and knees, but no worries. Oh yes, don’t forget the bike helmet, and elbow and knee pads for Learn to Skate! Again, you probably have these things just hanging around the garage.
Tying Ice Skates?
Start at the toe of the boot, and pull tightly on each side right and left eyes. Pull tightly, row by row till the tippy top. Their ankles are better supported and they feel the boot better as they master their on-ice moves. They will resemble baby deer, think Bambis on ice. But, they will get there! Their beautiful neuroplastic brains learn ice skating fast, it’s actually quite amazing to watch their progress.
The Basics of Hockey Skates:
Understanding the key components: boot, blade, holder, footbed, and materials used.
1. The boot – The boot of a hockey skate is the unsung hero that wraps around your foot like a cozy hug. It’s like a protective fortress, keeping your ankle stable and secure as you glide across the ice. Made from high-quality materials, the boot offers the perfect blend of flexibility and support, allowing you to unleash your inner skater without worrying about twisted ankles or wobbly strides.
Some boots are made of composite material, which all tend to give their own name to similar plastics engineering. They allow for baking and heat moldability. Baking or heat molding allows new skates to speed up the break-in time of skates. They are molded to the skater’s feet. It is a process we have always done where we have bought out hockey skates.
2. The Blade – Ah, the blade of an ice hockey skate – the sharpest slice of perfection you’ll ever lay your eyes on! Crafted from either stainless steel blades or carbon steel, this blade is a precision instrument designed to carve through the ice with finesse. Its height and hollow are meticulously calibrated to provide the ideal balance between speed and maneuverability, ensuring you can effortlessly weave through your opponents and leave them in awe of your icy prowess.
3. The Holder – Let’s not forget the unsung hero of the ice hockey skate – the holder! This nifty contraption, usually made of durable materials like reinforced plastic or lightweight aluminum, securely holds the blade in place and attaches it to the boot. With its adjustable design, the holder allows you to fine-tune your blade position, ensuring optimal balance and agility on the ice.
The better the holder, the better energy transfer on the ice and the ability to flex your ankles and knees to perform a super skating slide on the ice. So, next time you hit the rink, give a little nod to the holder, because without it, those dazzling moves and lightning-fast turns would be a slippery challenge!
4. The Footbed – This little slice of heaven provides a cozy cushion for your kiddo’s feet, ensuring a snug and supportive fit. Most are constructed with moisture-wicking and antimicrobial materials, the footbed keeps your feet feeling fresh and dry throughout intense on-ice battles. So, say goodbye to blisters and hello to a comfortable foundation that lets you focus on dominating the game and unleashing your inner hockey superstar!
5. Materials used – The tongue, often constructed with a combination of memory foam and padding, serves as a protective cushion for the top of your foot. It not only provides comfort and prevents lace bite but also absorbs impact from pucks and sticks, ensuring a cozy, maximum comfort and pain-free skating experience. The choice of materials, ranging from traditional felt to high-tech foams and felt, offers a blend of flexibility, protection, and moisture management, keeping your feet dry and happy throughout the game. So, whether you’re sniping goals or delivering bone-crushing checks, rest assured that your skate’s tongue has got your back (or rather, your feet!) covered!
How to Choose the Right Skate Size for a Snug and Comfortable Fit
Skates don’t usually size the same as regular shoes. Some say it may be about 1 or 1 1/2 sizes from the regular shoe size. What is most important is to go try them on for the right size and fit. Each manufacturer has their own cut, just like a clothing designer. There are also other key features that will make the perfect hockey skates for your child. In terms of comfort, all these specifications unique to each manufacturer will be a synergy of good fit.
For example, the shape and construction of the toe area significantly impact the overall fit and feel of the skate. A well-designed toe area ensures a comfortable and secure fit, allowing for precise control and maneuverability on the ice. Lastly, the toe is also essential for players’ stickhandling and shooting skills. The design and shape of the toe can affect how players handle the puck and make contact with it, ultimately impacting their performance and accuracy in the game.
The feel of the inner padding and molding of the boot helps with comfort and reduction of irritation from the inner part of the boot causing friction against bony prominences of the skater’s foot. A good fit will provide a secure fit around the foot, preventing any unwanted movement or discomfort. Additionally, the ability of the boot to mold or be “baked”, allows for further unique contours of the player’s foot and enhances the overall fit. The combination of proper padding and effective molding ensures a customized fit that maximizes performance and minimizes the risk of foot-related issues during practices and gameplay. Some have baked their skates (if per manufacturer specs can be molded) on their own. Some have even used hair dryers. Please do not even think of a heat gun. Too much can go terribly wrong.
There are also some additional insoles that can be placed in the skates for the type of arch your child may have.
Pure Hockey, where we have always purchased our hockey skates, does a scan of my son’s feet to determine size, width, and arch. This is a good starting point, but not the end of the fitting. For sure, trying on about 4-5 different manufacturers and a variety of sizes and widths has allowed us to reduce him to the ultimate fit. And when we have had issues after the purchase, they have always had great customer service in terms of questions or even the need for a return once.
Trying on various skate models and brands, paying attention to overall comfort, ankle support, and toe clearance, will help determine the best size and fit for each individual. Remember, a properly fitted skate will not only enhance performance but also prevent discomfort, blisters, and potential injuries, allowing players to glide with confidence and enjoy the game to the fullest.
Brands and Price Points:
Lake Placid:
Lake Placid Boys Nitro 8.8 Adjustable Ice Skates ($) Adjustable skates with the EZ push design. You can effortlessly adjust the size to accommodate your child’s growing foot, ensuring a perfect fit every time. The Cam-Lever buckles make it a breeze to put the skates on and take them off, saving you time and hassle. Whether your little one is hitting the ice at the rink or outside ice skating, these skates are ideal for their early hockey adventures during the winter season.
Bauer
It goes without saying, there are many different brands. If your kiddo is still pretty young, their first pair of hockey skates will probably not be crazy expensive. We will examine the lower price point and work our way up to the tippy top of the price line.
Bauer skates have changed from the Vapor, Supreme, and Nexus “fit”. I recall buying my son’s based on this due to his wide feet. There is more of an emphasis on the type of performance the hockey player desires.
Watch this great video from Pure Hockey that describes their new Bauer fit lines.
Bauer Vapor X Skates – ($)Truly beginner skates. Even has Velcro tabs – so no pulling on laces. This a true learn to skate, beginner skate. Not all the bells and whistles, but the right hockey skate for beginner skaters. A stiffer outsole, with not all the comfort features.
Bauer NSX skates – ($$) Looking for an affordable and versatile ice hockey skate? Look no further than the Bauer NSX! These skates are a fantastic choice for both recreational skaters and players on a budget. Offering a well-rounded performance, the Bauer NSX combines quality craftsmanship and affordability, making it a top pick for those seeking a reliable and wallet-friendly option on the ice. Lace-up a pair of Bauer NSX skates and get ready to glide with confidence, whether you’re hitting the rink for some casual fun or honing your skills on the ice. One of the best beginner hockey skates.
Bauer Supreme M3 – ($$) Another possibility for the beginner, recreational players that maybe are on the ice 1-2 times a week. Increasing in comfort and more moderate price range. It is a good choice for the player who is really starting to like their hockey, without costing a fortune. Better quality than the Bauer X and NSX skates.
Specifications include Digi Composite Quarter Package; 40 oz felt tongue, thermoformable for a customized fit, memory foam ankle padding, blade: S Stainless Steel runner!
Bauer Vapor Hyperlite 2 skate-($$$, $$$$) Super lightweight construction of these babies which makes it an excellent choice in terms of quality. Might personally be our top pick, but maybe not for the beginner hockey player due to the price. Depending on whether there are sales or not, you could spend anywhere from $750-$1,000 on these puppies. The top pick for it is a super comfortable fit and lightweight. I honestly couldn’t believe how light as a feather these were compared to what my son had previously. Furthermore, you get to customize them with either a Carbonlite blade or Pulse Ti depending on your game and skating.
CCM:
CCM Tacks AS-560 ($$) We’ve got an exclusive feature to share with you regarding the Tacks AS 560 Junior skates. Introducing the Adptsize insert, a game-changing technology that allows the casual skater to grow with your young player. With the ability to achieve two half-size increments below their actual boot size, these skates offer unmatched longevity and value for growing feet.
CCM Ribcor 90K ($$) A smart buy for the recreational player on the ice 1-2 times a week. Just great entry-level skates. CCM Ribcor 90 K is a good idea for those new hockey players, and still offers: the injected and flexible tendon guard in these skates is here to keep you protected without hindering your movement on the ice. Paired with the dual-layer pro tongue, it ensures maximum safety while allowing for a full range of motion, so you can unleash the full power of each stride. Additionally, the asymmetrical toe cap enhances your connection to the ice and boosts overall comfort by eliminating any unnecessary internal volume. Get ready to skate with confidence and comfort, making the most out of every stride as you embark on your hockey journey!
CCM JetSpeed FT 670 ($$) Great price for a one-piece boot, providing less weight. Designed with a one-piece boot made from high-strength plastic and composite material, this skate is all about performance and acceleration. It offers a closer fit for faster strides, allowing players to experience direct energy transfer and increased speed on the ice. While the stiffness index is slightly lower than higher-end models, it still provides ample support for both competitive and beginner-level players.
CCM has included a 7mm asymmetrical felt tongue with embossed lace-bite protection in the FT670, ensuring enhanced comfort and an improved overall feel. The HD microfiber liner resists abrasions and effectively wicks away moisture, keeping your little one’s feet dry and comfortable. Additionally, the skate’s footbed utilizes CCM’s Ortholite technology for a molded fit, promoting optimal support.
CCM Jetspeed FT4 – ($$$) This CCM Jetspeed FT has a One Piece Boot Speed quarter package, designed to provide a snug and precise fit for optimal on-ice performance. The TotalDri Pro+ liner takes comfort to the next level by offering high-performance moisture-wicking properties, keeping your feet dry and comfortable during intense gameplay. Plus, enjoy the convenience of an interchangeable, custom-fitting tongue that allows you to personalize your skate experience for the perfect blend of comfort and support. Elevate your game with these top-notch features and take your skating to new heights! These are offered in a variety of skinny to wider fits if needed.
CCM AS-V Pro: ($$$$) Elevate your elite game with these skates. The cutting-edge power of our exclusive one-piece boot technology delivers unrivaled energy transfer and a snugger fit. This skate is designed to optimize your performance on the ice by maximizing the efficiency of every stride. With superior energy transfer and a closer fit, you’ll feel a whole new level of power and control, allowing you to unleash your full potential and dominate the game like never before.
With the AS-V Pro skate, you also get interchangeable tongues that provide an unrivaled, personalized feel. Tailor your skate experience to perfection by easily swapping out the tongues to match your unique preferences and playing style
CCM JetSpeed FT6 – ($$$$) New to the CCM line for 2023. Rivals the Bauer Hyperlite 2 skate. Both are high-technology skates. Super lightweight, and rounding out this impressive one-piece boot also features “Game Ready Fit”. This skate fit is specifically designed to deliver ultimate comfort and enhance energy transfer, resulting in lightning-fast strides on the ice.
Other higher-end features:
1)The boot of the skate is constructed with “RFM carbon composite material” that wraps beneath it. This innovative design prevents the loss or absorption of energy, which can occur with traditional glued and nailed outsoles. Instead, the energy is efficiently transferred directly through the boot to the ice, maximizing power.
2) “Speedblade XS Holder” with an enhanced dial and the “STEP Blacksteel runner” in Sr. and INT only. This runner maintains superior edge hardness, ensuring long-lasting durability for confident maneuvers and powerful ice digging. Even in the junior version of the skate, your young player can trust the reliability and performance of the STEP Steel runner. Just an all-around great skate!
TRUE
True TF Custom Skates – ($$$$) Top of the line for a great fit. Almost fully customized based on sizing and scans. High tech and low weight in everything from the tongue, boot, and blade. Expensive skates over $1,000, but of course, a great skate and perfect fit!
Hockey Skate Bargains Unveiled: Unleashing the Secrets to Finding Affordable Deals!
Oh, you better believe it, friend! The quest for budget-friendly priced Ice Hockey Skates can be as exhilarating as a last-minute overtime goal in the Stanley Cup Finals! Now, you don’t need to dig into your wallet like you’re on a power play, there are some seriously slick deals out there just waiting for your eagle-eyed spotting!
1) we were handed down a pair of Ice Hockey skates from another co-worker of mine. Not only skates, she basically provided us with the whole ensemble for free. Ask around if you know families who are a smidge bigger than your kiddo. They may just have skates laying around in the basement! Score!
2) Try checking out end-of-season sales. Prowl for reputable sporting goods stores and websites having mega blow-out sales! Don’t forget the coupons!! I recall a family able to pick up a beginner pair of Ice Skates at Dick’s Sporting Goods and max out the coupon mania!
3) Secondhand shops for just Sports. In this region, we have Play It Again sports. They always have a ton of Ice Skates for the beginner! They also have other great Ice Hockey gear, pucks, and training equipment. And, you can try them on in the store
4) Take that energy also to second-hand online shops such as
SidelineSwap.com – 2nd hand online and friendly place to go Ice Hockey shopping. It is also a great place for some Hockey Sticks!
FacebookMarketplace.com – you’d be surprised what mint-condition gear folks donate!
Ebay.com – new and used items on Ebay!
The Con with these online places is you cannot go in, sit down get measured, and maybe bake the skates. So, you have to have a good idea of what size, fit, and brand you need.
A hybrid between New and (not used) merchandise. Some great on-line sellers that white label some gear:
5. HockeyStickMan.com – Take your time and browse. And keep this goodie in your back pocket for when Jr. gets older and needs more!
So, at times it is better to just go to the store, sit down and make the investment. Here are some goodies:
6. Hockey Monkey – In-store and online shopping. They seem to have a very extensive line.
7. Pure Hockey – This is near my house, so it is my go-to place. My trips to Pure Hockey have always been top-shelf experiences! The crew of hockey heads staffing this place are absolute all-stars when it comes to customer service. On top of that, their Rewards Program is a game-changer – a total hat trick! Nothing beats that moment when I glide in for a skate sharpening, only to find a cool $10 in Rewards waiting for me. It’s like scoring the game-winning goal every time!
So, let’s lace up those skates, zip up those parkas, and hit the icy aisles, my bargain-loving, puck-chasing compadres! With a blend of patience, persistence, and a keen eye, we’re bound to get some truly unbeatable deals.
Remember, the goal here isn’t just to save a few bucks—it’s to equip ourselves with the best gear that enhances our love for the game, without breaking the bank!
