Thursday, March 1, 2012

Finding The Right Ice Hockey Skates First And Second Hand To Match Your Skill Level

By Adriana Noton


Those who have been playing the game for a while have probably bought several pairs of skates already and know everything there is to know about how to choose them. Those who are still taking lessons or are beginner players will need some tips on finding the right ice hockey skates. Here are some tips.

It's impossible to simply keep on using your old figure skates for hockey. Their blades are specifically formed to aid the specific movement required in this sport. Hockey blades are adapted for maneuverability and speed. Blades are thinner than figure skates.

They are designed for different levels of skill. It's not advisable to spend the largest amount possible on the most advanced pair when starting out. This will result in a pair you'll struggle to use as they'll be too stiff around the ankle and the blades will allow little control.

The main section of the blade's curvature is called a rocker. The most curved section in the front of the blade is called a spin rocker as it assists the player to turn during game play. The lower the curvature, the more speed the player has. Thus, which role you play in the team determines the curvature of your rocker.

How much you weigh is also a factor in selection. When choosing blades, use only furnace hardened carbon steel. This is the hardiest and is necessary as blades require frequent sharpening and grinding and wear out quickly. Stainless steel is inadequate as it's soft and needs to be sharpened often.

Advanced boots will be made from genuine leather. Beginners more than likely will prefer synthetic as they are easier to care for. Be careful of cheaper leathers as they wear and crack too easily.

Metal eyelets to reinforce the lacing area are an indicator that cheap leather has been used. A good, thick leather doesn't need metal eyelets. Cheap leather will offer no support in the ankle area.

Once you've completed lessons, however, you'll quickly need to advance to genuine leather that you can jump and spin in. Be extremely careful if you're determined to buy second hand. These need to be virtually unused to be of any worth.

A worn pair will usually have no ankle support. As soon as that's gone, the pair is rendered useless. Avoid anything that has creases around the entire ankle area.

Take care not to buy boots with unattached heels either. Watch out for deep nicks in used blades. These, too, are impossible to fix and are thus useless to you.

When trying on for size, wear the socks you will be using in the rink. Start with one size smaller than your shoes. They should be very tight around the ankle area. The foot should have absolutely no room to slip and the toes should fit adequately into the boot.

Remember that you get what you pay for. Selecting a good store will grant you access to additional services like blade sharpening and heat fitting. Finally, you're ready to win that match and enjoy your hockey sticks.




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