FAQ: How Should Hockey Skates Fit?

Should I buy hockey skates a size bigger?

Bauer, CCM, and True hockey skates normally fit 1 to 1½ sizes smaller than your shoe size. For children, it is acceptable to order a half size bigger than that to accommodate growing feet; however, wearing skates any larger will cause blisters and will break down the sides of the boot.

Are skates supposed to be tight?

Generally speaking, the golden rule for proper skate fit no matter the brand or kind of skate is as snug as possible without being painful or uncomfortable, with the ability to still wiggle the toes up and down.

Should you be able to move your toes in hockey skates?

No! Ice skates need to lock your foot in place but not too tight as to squeeze them.

What happens if hockey skates are too big?

If your skates are too big, you will feel a world of hurt which will only end when you get the proper size skates. A skate that is too large will cause blisters, hammertoes, bunions or calluses which come from the constant irritation which in turn gives you constant foot pain.

How do you know if your hockey skates are too small?

You can often determine that your hockey skates are too small if your toes always touch the toe cap. There should be space when you are in a hockey stance, and if there is no space, then your hockey skates are too small for your foot’s length.

Why are hockey skates so uncomfortable?

One of the biggest causes for uncomfortable hockey skates comes from them not being broken in. When you first get a pair of hockey skates, they will be very stiff and tight. In a way, this is a good thing because it allows the skates to form to your foot as they break-in.

Why do my hockey skates hurt?

When you first skate in your new skates, yes, it is normal for there to be a little discomfort. It is normal to get the odd blister, or a bit of a pain. This is the normal process of breaking in a new pair of skates. After your skates are broken in you should be able to skate in them without any pain or blisters.

How do you know what size skates to buy?

Most roller skates are going to fit the same as your standard shoe size. So, if you wear a size 8 in your everyday shoes a size 8 in roller skates will fit. Most brands of roller skates will make their skates fit the same as popular shoe brands to make it easier to size.

How do you tell if your skates are too small?

It’s normal to have your little toe and the fourth toe close to the edge of the insole or completely off the edge. Signs your skates are not the right fit include very little space at the toe, zero space at the toe and having your toes hang over the front edge, and the third toe hanging off the side of the insole.

Do you size up or down for figure skates?

The general rule of thumb is 1.5 sizes down from your shoe size. Since shoe sizing can vary from brand to brand, it’s best to measure your feet in the following manner.

Should you size up or down in roller skates?

In any case, the inline and roller skate size should be either equal to your shoe size or no more than one size up or down from it.

Should my toe touch the end of my skates?

Almost all skaters worry about their toes touching the end when they first put on skates. This is perfectly normal. The first three things you do when you go skating all help to make a skate feel better: Tap your heel into the back of the skate – be firm!

How long does it take to break in hockey skates?

How long does it take to break in ice skates? The amount of time it takes to break in ice skates can vary, but it’s usually between 6-10 hours of ice time. Heat moulding or baking your skates often helps to shorten this break-in period.

Why do the sides of my feet hurt when I skate?

Tendonitis and sprains — Tendonitis and sprains in the feet, ankles, and knees are common due to overuse and pressure placed on the feet while skateboarding. There is usually localized pain, swelling, and stiffness. A sprain will occur suddenly while tendonitis often develops over time.