Equipment & Skate Care

Everything You Need to Know Before Hitting the Ice

Choosing the right equipment is one of the most important steps in helping your skater enjoy a safe and successful experience on the ice. Whether you're buying your first pair of skates or preparing for the next skating level, we're here to help.

At a Glance

Need new skates? Ask one of our coaches or email the club before purchasing.
Need skates sharpened? Have them sharpened before the first session.
Need help with sizing? Proper fit is essential for comfort, safety, and progress.

Choosing the Right Skates

Properly fitted skates can make a huge difference in your skater's comfort, confidence, and progress on the ice.

Skate Canada has created a helpful Boots & Blades Comparison Chart to help families choose equipment appropriate for their skater's age and ability.

Click the "Boots & Blades Comparison" button above to download the comparison chart.

If you're unsure which skates are right for your child, speak with one of our coaches or email the club before purchasing.

How Should Skates Fit?

A properly fitted skate should:

✔ Fit snugly without causing pain.

✔ Hold the heel firmly in place.

✔ Provide good ankle support.

✔ Allow toes to lightly touch the end of the boot while standing.

✔ Should have a 1/4 inch of space in the back if the toes are touching the front of the skate.

Skates that are too large can make learning more difficult and reduce stability on the ice.

New Skates vs. Used Skates

Used skates can be a great option for beginner skaters if they:

Fit properly.
Provide good ankle support.
Are in good condition.
Have blades free of rust or significant damage.

Avoid purchasing recreational skates or heavily worn boots for skaters progressing through CanSkate or STARSkate, as they may not provide the support needed for skill development.

Lace up skates are recommended over the rachet style. These provide more support and are easier to adjust support where needed.

Skate Sharpening

Sharp blades help skaters maintain balance, control, and confidence.

We recommend having skates sharpened:

Before the first skating session.
Whenever skates begin to feel like they're slipping on the ice.
After approximately 20–30 hours of skating (this varies depending on use).

Figure skates should always be sharpened by someone experienced with figure skating blades.

Recommended Sharpening Locations:

Boyd's Source for Sports - Hockey Skates
In Uxbridge

Apex

Uxbridge Areana - Hockey Skates

Jake's - Specialize in Figure skate sharpening

In Thornhill

The Figure Skating Boutique - Specialize in Figure skate sharpening
In Thornhill

Protecting Your Skates

To help your skates last longer:

Never walk on concrete without skate guards.
Remove hard plastic guards after arriving you take your skates off so moisture doesn't cause rust.
Dry the blades after every session.
Use soft fabric blade covers after drying the blades.
Store skates in a dry, ventilated bag.

Helmet Information

Skaters working on CanSkate Stage 5 and below must wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet.

Bicycle, ski, and multi-sport helmets do not meet Skate Canada safety requirements.

Equipment Checklist

Before each skating session, make sure you have:

✔ Skates

✔ Helmet

✔ Gloves or mittens

✔ Warm jacket

✔ Athletic pants or snow pants

✔ Thin socks

Questions?

Not sure what equipment your skater needs?

Our coaches are always happy to answer your questions and help you make the best equipment choices for your skater. Or, email the club with any questions or concerns.