Your Thoughts on Synthetic Ice?

[DigDug 5]

Have any of you skated on synthetic ice? There seems to be varying opinions on it that are, I imagine, due as much to the difference in quality among manufacturers as to personal reaction.

I'm considering buying a bit for my basement just to be able to skate around when I have a craving to do so, but I don't want it to end up being a waste of an investment.

Any ideas? Any recommendations for or against specific suppliers?

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/3089597/lear...by_super_glide/

[furlanitalia 1]

This topic has been beaten to death, and probably to no solid consensus. Personally, I trained on synthetic ice for many years and it did nothing but help me. It provides resistance forcing you to get lower and stand properly. This translates to proper posture for everything you do from skating to shooting. When you get back on real ice you absolutely fly because there is now less resistance.

I wouldn't say it is a waste of investment if you use it regularly. It is costly but if you have kids its a great way for them to train as well. As for damaging your skates, it is no difference then getting on the ice more. With proper care your home rink it should last you many years as they are quite durable. I'd say go for it if you have the cash, I know I'd love to have some to skate on regularly lol.

[n3ss 0]

Its probably cheaper than installing a refrigeration system for ice.