What's the best skates for a beginner player to learn on?

[moejoe3117 1]

Here is some info, I am currently in Bauer  190 skates. Going into my third year of summer rec league. I've been reading  that the 190 skates might be too stiff for me because I'm still learning things. What would be a good learning skate in Bauer or ccm? 

[IPv6Freely 2096]

Whichever ones fit your feet.

[moejoe3117 1]

Is it best to start out with a softer boot?

[Vet88 674]

imho yes. Stiff boots do not teach you how to use your ankles for stability or forward flex. And because you can lean on the side of the boot you learn bad habits in skating if you start to lean on the sides of the boot when turning, accelerating etc.

[clarkiestooth 235]

OP, I think you're overthinking this. If your 190's fit well, no need to change. They are a great skate.  If you need more forward flexion, don't lace the top eyelet. As for the stride finish, the 190's flexible tendon guard is ideal for promoting "snap" at the end of stride. Think about investing in a power skating camp. That will last you longer than the short term bling of a new (and less featured) skate.

[vinprun71 61]

I'd have to agree with clarkiestooth. There's no reason to drop money on new skates for the reason you've cited. You'll end up in a never ending cycle of finding the perfect skate, when the perfect skate for you is the one you already have. Stick with your skates, continue to play games, and think about clinics to perfect your skating. Three years into skating doesn't necessarily make you much of a beginner anymore. You're used to the skates you have. Don't change them. That's my two cents.

[stick9 896]

Another one for clarkie.

If you have a skate that fits, stick with it, unless of course it's hindering your development. 

[DRR 112]

IMO yes you would have been better off with a softer boot to begin. It would force you to develop balance and would allow you to "feel" your edges more, and would also give you more feedback about what position your foot/skate/blade is in. 

Having said that, if you're already in skates that fit, i agree with clarkiestooth. Leave the top eyelet undone (might help to move to 96" laces), also try thinner socks for a bit, and do your best to learn to "feel" your skate. The stiffness of the boot is meant to help good skaters maximize power transfer, but for beginning skaters, they use the stiffness to provide support and "cheat" - not use their ankles - which would promote poor skating form and mechanics. If you're conscious of this then you're already light years ahead of your peers.

Also agree, a powerskating course, even a single course, would do wonders. It gives you a ton of information and feedback about what to work on and think about when you're out there skating.

 

 

[IPv6Freely 2096]

Agree with spending the money on a power skating class instead of buying new skates. 

[moejoe3117 1]

I'll have to look into a power skating class. Another thing I was thinking is that I have a pair of 190 I converted to roller that are very broken in now, would it be best to convert them back to ice? 

[IPv6Freely 2096]

Only if the ones you have already don't fit you.

[DRR 112]

The roller boots can help you train the correct muscles for ice and vice versa. Definitely skip the top eyelet, or two even, to get a better feel for the balance. No need for new equipment or swapping anything at this point. Train what you have.