How do you know when it's time for new skates?

[Doctor Hook 0]

I've been skating in beer league/pickup on a pair of CCM 652 Tacks since '03 and I really like them, but last night I noticed they felt a tad loose/soft, eventhough I thought I laced them up to their usual tightness. I've had the holders replaced and aside from normal wear and tear, the boot is fine. There are some minor scars on the outside plastic footbed and they've been re-rivetted.

Growing up I got new skates when my feet grew, but now as an adult I'm wondering when's the right time to retire these bad boys and look for something new. I could probably keep skating on these, but the last thing I want is an injury or for them to crap the bed right before a playoff game or tourney.

[Chadd 916]

It all depends on how much you skate, how hard you skate, your size and what you expect from your skate.

[Doctor Hook 0]

It all depends on how much you skate, how hard you skate, your size and what you expect from your skate.

Skate 2x a week or so, one game and one pickup session. I'm a strong skater, play D for the most part, don't have any issues in pivoting or going backwards, etc. I'm 5'10" and tip the scales at 200+ (I love beer and BBQ).

I'm looking for a skate that's durable, comfy, and will last at least 4 years.

I'll see if the skates remain loose the next time I play, but I've never had a pair of skates long enough to feel them going soft.

[DarkStar50 680]

I'm looking for a skate that's durable, comfy, and will last at least 4 years.

I'd go with Bauer Bobskates. It should be easy to get more than 4 years out of them. The only thing you will have to change is the boot you strap them to. Sharpening will be tough on the double runners but you will never lose an edge. You will have eight of them! Price isn't too bad. They go for about $12.

JK.......

[hockey315 0]

Loot at the side of the boot about where your ankle bone is. That is where the forward flexion point of the boot is. If there is a wave or a crease, then your skates have seen better days. This is the first point of breakdown, it's where the most stress is on the boot.

That's what the Vapor line has the red dot on the side, it's the flexion point and it helps the boot flex... same with coil technology.

[jjtt99 0]

Dr. Hook,

You'll find the answer you're looking for here.

http://www.modsquadhockey.com/forums/index...ic=9922&hl=