Skate Boot stretching (length) vapor xxxx skates

[icedog76 0]

Hi everyone,

I tried on a pair of vapor xxxx in size 8.5D and I'm missing about 2-3 mm in length for them to be comfortable (big toe not rubbing). The size 9D is considerably bigger both in length and the boot shape seems bigger as well, so it's a no-go. I considered a custom order but I believe a size 8.75D would be like a shorter size 9, so the skate boot would still be too big.

Here is my question: is it possible to stretch for length a vapor xxxx skate?

According to Puckmugger (Scott Noble):

Keep in mind two things if this type of fit seems a little too short. First the heel pockets of the boots will compress as they break in and actually give you a little more room for length. Second, if by some chance the boots are uncomfortably short after breaking them in, you can still have them stretched for length. Had you erred on the side of buying a pair that was too long, you would have to replace your skates.

Will heating a boot add an extra 1 mm and will breaking in the ankle padding also ad 1-2mm in length?

I live in Montreal, and have no idea which pro shop offers such a service? Any ideas?

Thanks for your input!

icedog76

[srv2miker 0]

You could probably gain that much room by switching socks! Seriously though, just try a few ice times and they'll start to feel better. I wear XXVs and after 1-2 ice times I noticed I had just the right amount of room in the toes.

[fatwabbit 93]

like srv2miker said...jus change your socks. I dropped half size by switching from my normal 'army' track socks to a thinner pair.

[icedog76 0]

hi srv2miker, fatwabbit, the thin socks is a good idea indeed. When breaking in a skate did you notice that you get more length? thanks

[Hockey Fan 51 0]

hi srv2miker, fatwabbit, the thin socks is a good idea indeed. When breaking in a skate did you notice that you get more length? thanks

You are nearly always going to gain a bit of length when breaking in a skate. The heel pads soften and draw your heel into the pocket of the skate (pulling the toe off the cap).

I've noticed enough of a difference in some skates to have to go back to thicker socks after they're fully broken in.

haven't tried the Vapor XXXX's though on this, but they are constructed similar enough to have the same thing happen with them.