To enjoy your favorite sport, you need the right equipment. For figure skaters, the most important piece of equipment is correctly fitted boots. Figure skating boots should fit like cowboy boots, not a pair of slippers — they should feel snug and supportive, not loose. Properly fitted boots are important for comfort, and they also help you skate better.
Boot Size
The first thing to consider is the size of the boot. Generally, the boot should be a full size smaller than your shoe size. So, if you wear a size seven shoe, for example, you would select a size 6. The smaller size should create a snugger fit, which will help support your feet.
Appropriate Socks
Since you are sizing down the skate, it is important to wear the correct socks. While it may make sense to you to choose thicker socks to keep your feet warm, it is best to wear thin socks that allow your feet to breathe and fit into this slightly smaller and more supportive boot. Your feet will actually stay warmer because they are not losing circulation from the combination of tighter skates and thicker socks.
Proper Lacing
In addition to wearing the right size boot and appropriate socks, the next part of the puzzle is lacing the skate boot correctly. Proper lacing keeps your foot firmly in the boot and gives your ankle freedom for maneuvering. The heel of your foot should be locked back into the heel area as far as possible, and when properly laced and standing, your toes should almost brush the front of the boot.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Before lacing, hit the back of the blade once or twice into the floor to push your heel into the back of the boot, and keep it there while lacing.
- Lacing should be snug, with the firmest lacing from behind the ball of the foot up to the ankle.
- The boot should be secure, but not tight, across the toes and above the ankle. This gives proper support to your feet and ankles and helps prevent injury or irritation. Loosely laced skates can create blisters.
- If the boot has been laced properly, you should be able to insert two fingers at the back of your leg.
Properly fitted skates that are well laced will not only support your feet and protect them from injury but will also enhance your skating and allow you to perform your best.
