Proper Equipment
Can Skate/Pre Star:
Skaters attending our sessions will have more fun and advance faster if they are properly and safely equipped. This means making sure that:
• Skates fit comfortably
• There is room for toes to wiggle slightly
• Heels do not lift inside the skate more than ¼ inch
• An adult finger can fit in the top of the boot when
done up.
• Excess laces are tucked or tied up so that they do
not hang loose or drag on the ice
EQUIPMENT CARE
To protect the skate blades (and facility floors!), skate guards should be worn in any area that is not protected by rubber mats.
At the end of every session the blades should be wiped with a dry cloth to prevent rusting. Skate sharpening should be done periodically.
HELMETS
A CSA approved hockey helmet must be worn by all
skaters at or below Stage 5 (please see Skate Canada Helmet Policy for further details).
CLOTHING
Skaters should dress warmly for our sessions; however, some items such as long drawstrings, scarves, dangling coat belts, etc. can be a hazard on
the ice and should be avoided if possible. We recommend wearing mittens or gloves to keep skaters warm.
CSA Approved Hockey Helment (CSA Stickers) Unsupportive vs. Supportive Skates
Star 1 & Up:
Skates:
- Figure skates, not recreational skates: Recreational or hockey skates will not have the correct blade shape or a toe pick, which is essential for figure skating jumps and skills.
- Supportive boot: A boot that provides good ankle support is crucial for beginners to help prevent injury and allow for proper technique development.
- Brand examples: Jackson and Edea are known for making durable, supportive skates that are suitable for beginner skaters.
- Consult with the coach: The most important recommendation is to ask the skater's coach for a specific recommendation. They will have the best advice on which skates are appropriate for the specific needs of a Star skater.
A few options for in person skate shopping:
2nd hand- Play it again Sports, Red Deer Play it Again Sports
New & Used- Professional Skate, Edmonton or Calgary
These are the pros to see for proper skate fitting, forming and more! Highly recomended when getting skates for skaters of levels Star 2 & up.
Clothing:
- Skaters should dress warmly for our sessions; however, some items such as long drawstrings, scarves, dangling coat belts, etc. can be a hazard onthe ice and should be avoided if possible. We recommend wearing mittens or gloves to keep skaters warm.
- Long hair should be tied back.
- Snug fitting pants, leggings or tights are recommended to avoid accidental blade catching and potential falls.