Question about used skates

[cannibaltrout 0]

So, got talked into an old timers/relaxed beer league group for over the summer with a bunch of guys I volunteer coached with for my son's 1st year Mini Mite season. I never played hockey myself so unsure on upgrading my skates. My basic $60  New pair served me fine for tooling around on the ice but I know they are nowhere near stiff enough for any aggressive action out there. Can't afford $300+ pair of new skates but did happen to find a pair of Reebok 18Ks over at my local playitagain store in my size, from what I could research they seemed to be a pretty decent pair back when they were made and they looked practically brand new for $70. Anything I should look out for in used? and does that seem like a good deal?

 

 

[Buzz_LightBeer 974]

3 things about buying used skates;

 

Buying used skates always works, until it doesn't, BUT

If they're comfortable, and you're not doing anything too intricate go with it

Keep in mind, stiffer high end skates are meant to be played in and moved in. Not meant to be stood around on. If you find a mid-lower set of used skates for coaching and shagging pucks, go for it

[marka 526]

Howdy,

If I needed skates I certainly would jump on a pair of near-new 18ks for $70 if:

* They fit (you need to actually try them on to confirm this, its not just about the stated size).

* The steel wasn't all rusty / worn(sharpened) away, etc.

* The holders & boot weren't all cracked up or whatever.

The "fit" bit is probably the most critical there.  Put them on and walk around the store.  At a minimum, make sure that your feet don't hurt and that they aren't moving around in the skates.  There are lots of "how to fit" posts on here if you want to dig into this more.

Having said that, if you're new to hockey, I wouldn't worry at all about skate stiffness.  If what you have now fits / doesn't hurt your feet / lets you skate around when you're coaching it seems like they would be totally fine for beginner hockey.

Mark