Choosing Skates

[raygunpk 0]

I've been thinking about getting into ice hockey ( I just play roller ) and I had a question about skates.

What are the advantages of a more expensive skate over a cheaper one?

Does it make you skate faster or turn sharper?

I know a more expensive one piece stick can allow you to get shots off quicker than say a cheaper wooden stick, but how would you relate that to skates?

Sorry for being a noob,

Thanks

[barrett 0]

Durability and Comfort will be to major differences. Supposing you choose a skate that fits properaly. Obviously you know the quality will be better along with other little things like stifness and weight.

[raygunpk 0]

So comfort is the advantage here?

[srv2miker 0]

There are a couple things in play with more expensive skates:

- Normally they are lighter, which to most people is a plus

- Typically they feature stiffer materials (note, this does not necessarily mean they are more durable)

- Cheap skates will have a plastic outsole, whereas expensive boots will have a carbon outsole (or none at all). This improves energy transfer.

- Sometimes they come with better holders and steel, which improves performance and wear

[DamnLocust 0]

not necessarily. comfort comes with a proper fitting skate. If a vapor IX doesn't fit your foot, neither will a vapor XXXX.

The main attributes you'll see on higher end skates include:

better holder/steel packages- they'll retain edges longer and resist rusting/warping/etc. better.

Increased stiffness/support throughout the boot. This will increase both the performance and the lifespan of the skate.

Stiffer and often thinner (usually composite) outsoles that transfer energy more efficiently

Upgraded liners/tongues. While this can affect the comfort of the skate, an upgraded liner or tongue will not magically make a skate fit your foot.

[shifter 0]

Lining is one too! You don't want a puddle in your skate and break down easily!

[Fredrik 0]

Protection is also a factor to consider, higher end skates are often more protective than entry level skates.

[raygunpk 0]

What skate would you recommend a new player?

Can you guys list some out? Just don't mind the budget for now, go nuts.

I don't want a really cheap skate that will break down and I don't think a really high end skate would do me any good.

Thanks

[Nutella 0]

What skate would you recommend a new player?

Can you guys list some out? Just don't mind the budget for now, go nuts.

I don't want a really cheap skate that will break down and I don't think a really high end skate would do me any good.

Thanks

Well, a cheaper skate this is pretty good is the Bauer Supreme 50's. They are pretty light and offer pretty good protection. I used these for a while, they were a dream. I do ask for opinion on these from the other members though. Just because I liked them doesn't mean they're great.

Anyway, get fitted for some Bauer XXXX and show off. ;)

[blues_91 0]

What skate would you recommend a new player?

Can you guys list some out? Just don't mind the budget for now, go nuts.

I don't want a really cheap skate that will break down and I don't think a really high end skate would do me any good.

Thanks

Best thing would be to try on mid-end skates from each manufacture. Mid-end skates are usually aroudn $200-250 US, or $300-350 Cdn.

[duch 0]

Blues 91 has given you some good advice. A middle of the line skate would have been my advice as well. If you look into last years models on sale or clearance you can probably get them for a bit cheaper as well. Some suggestions: CCM 652/852, Easton Synergy 700/900, Bauer Supeme 50, Nike Flexlite 9, Mission L-4/5 or Fuel 80/90, Reebok 5K. Hope this helps.

[Wolverine 0]

I highly recommend these skates:

http://cgi.ebay.com/CCM-992-Tack-Mens-Ice-...VQQcmdZViewItem

These skate are GREAT! Actually, for the price that you can now get these, they are outstanding!They are light, yet have great support, and will last much longer than many of the 'newer' composites on the market. I purchased mine at my LHS, but I have found them available on E-Bay. Finding your size maybe tricky. As a 'fit-example' I wear a 9.5 (sometimes 10!) size shoe. These CCMs in size 7.5D fit me perfectly!! My toes just tickle the front toe cap when laced up snug (not too tight) to skate.

Consider this:

It was only a few years ago that the CCM Tacks-line was as follows:

#1) CCM PRO-Tacks (top of the line)

#2) CCM Super Tacks 992 (what these skates are = 2nd best)

#3) CCM Tacks 892

#4) CCM Tacks 692

#5) CCM Tacks 492

So, you are getting a nearly Top-of-the-line skate for a very reasonable price. These skates have the E-Blade holder and the lace lock system, which I like. They also are more traditional looking. I have a wider foot and these fit me better than an older Bauer.

A player on my team just got started. He purchased a new, but very chep pair of skates at Play It Again Sports. They are junk (and they are new!). There is no support in the ankle and he is already shopping for better skates after only 5 games!

........................... Do NOT skimp on Skates!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good luck to you!

Again, a 'Fitting Reference' for the CCM skates.

My running shoes are size 10. My dress shoes are size 10. I have a set of loafers size 9.3EE. But most shoes are size 10.

Here is the MISTAKE I made:

I originally purchased the CCM 892 in a size 8.5 (internet order). After the ankle supports broke in, my foot slid back into the skate more and the skates felt too big = uncomfortable. So, I sold the 892's to a friend of mine cheap and took a little hit.

I then went to my LHS and tried on CCM 992. First size 8D = nope! Then size 7.5D. My toes were pushing agains the edge fairly hard. After 3 skates, they started to feel great. After 8 skates = awesome!

I recently purchased the CCM Vector 6.0 Inline skates. Same thing, 7.5D fitted best.

So: Size 10D shoe = Size 7.5D skates for CCMs

................... thought this may help!

[Andoy 5]

I highly recommend these skates:

http://cgi.ebay.com/CCM-992-Tack-Mens-Ice-...VQQcmdZViewItem

These skate are GREAT! Actually, for the price that you can now get these, they are outstanding!They are light, yet have great support, and will last much longer than many of the 'newer' composites on the market. I purchased mine at my LHS, but I have found them available on E-Bay. Finding your size maybe tricky. As a 'fit-example' I wear a 9.5 (sometimes 10!) size shoe. These CCMs in size 7.5D fit me perfectly!! My toes just tickle the front toe cap when laced up snug (not too tight) to skate.

Consider this:

It was only a few years ago that the CCM Tacks-line was as follows:

#1) CCM PRO-Tacks (top of the line)

#2) CCM Super Tacks 992 (what these skates are = 2nd best)

#3) CCM Tacks 892

#4) CCM Tacks 692

#5) CCM Tacks 492

So, you are getting a nearly Top-of-the-line skate for a very reasonable price. These skates have the E-Blade holder and the lace lock system, which I like. They also are more traditional looking. I have a wider foot and these fit me better than an older Bauer.

A player on my team just got started. He purchased a new, but very chep pair of skates at Play It Again Sports. They are junk (and they are new!). There is no support in the ankle and he is already shopping for better skates after only 5 games!

........................... Do NOT skimp on Skates!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good luck to you!

Again, a 'Fitting Reference' for the CCM skates.

My running shoes are size 10. My dress shoes are size 10. I have a set of loafers size 9.3EE. But most shoes are size 10.

Here is the MISTAKE I made:

I originally purchased the CCM 892 in a size 8.5 (internet order). After the ankle supports broke in, my foot slid back into the skate more and the skates felt too big = uncomfortable. So, I sold the 892's to a friend of mine cheap and took a little hit.

I then went to my LHS and tried on CCM 992. First size 8D = nope! Then size 7.5D. My toes were pushing agains the edge fairly hard. After 3 skates, they started to feel great. After 8 skates = awesome!

I recently purchased the CCM Vector 6.0 Inline skates. Same thing, 7.5D fitted best.

So: Size 10D shoe = Size 7.5D skates for CCMs

................... thought this may help!

These skates are only 'great' if his feet can fit CCM skates. Try not let brand names decide what skate to buy. It's whatever that fits. Just go out there and try as many as you can. Also, an entry-mid range skate is more forgiving so if you're not sized properly it shouldn't cause you too much discomfort physically and financially.

[barrett 0]

I don't think I would be to trusting of the poster two posts ahead of something. It almost seems as if he is trying to sell something... <_<

[raygunpk 0]

I want to add that i have very wide feet..

[Remman 0]

I recently bought a pair of Vapor XXV's... They fit so I bought them. I am not one to buy high end equipment and these aren't very high end but they are probably the best money I spent on equipment in a while. I came from Tacks and have had no problems with them. Easy break-in and feel great for the price...

[Wolverine 0]

I don't think I would be to trusting of the poster two posts ahead of something. It almost seems as if he is trying to sell something... <_<

LOL

ummmmmmmm, no. I have absolutely nothing to sell, to anyone.

Just trying to help out since I also have wide feet and found these at my LHS at a great price.

...............................................................

I concur with what has been said above. It really depends upon what 'fits' YOUR feet the best. Try on a bunch of different skates.

Good luck to you!