If you’re gonna do it, always use protection. I know you just want to have fun, but your health and safety should always come first! So, if you’re ready to do it but want to know what’s best to protect yourself, read on.
So, you wanted to hear more about protection huh?
Well, there are four things you should probably have if you’re gonna throw caution to the wind and do it.
Do what you ask. Ice skating of course!
What did you think I was gonna say? You dirty mind you.
Anyway, if you were inspired to get on the ice (I’m talking to you fellow YOI fans!) for the first time or for the first time in a long time as in my case, there are four things I’d recommend for fall protection. A pair of volleyball knee pads, hip/tailbone padded shorts, soft elbow pads, and wrist guards. If you really want to decked out, you can even get a helmet. 🙂
This sounds like a lot of stuff to get, but if you are serious about learning to ice skate, these items will be a lot cheaper than a visit to the urgent care or hospital. Nothing will protect you 100% but it is better than going out there without anything for protection.
Also if you are serious about learning to ice skate, I would recommend you get fitted and purchase a pair of recreational figure skates. Figure skates tend to be better for the new skater vs hockey skates since the former distribute your weight more evenly across the blade. Don’t worry about catching the front toe pick as you are learning. The toe pick is for jumps and spins only and once you learn to push off and glide on the ice properly, you’ll forget it’s even there.
The rentals at the ice rinks are notorious for having dull blades and they just fit poorly since they are not molded to your feet. I think I used the rental skates once or twice before I went out and purchased my own. Check online for a skate shop in your area as they will have the best advice on which brand and style would be best for your needs. Two very well-known brands of figure skates are Jackson and Riedell.
My own recreational figure skates were about $100 including taxes at a local shop. A nice bonus when you purchase from a skate shop is they will sharpen the blades for you. Skates do not come out of the box sharpened and this must be done before getting on the ice. Also, on a side note, be aware that hockey skates are sharpened differently than figure skates, so make sure you go to a reputable shop to get them sharpened properly.
Another tip for when you are out on the ice for the first time, remember to keep your knees soft and bent like you are about to sit in a chair. Having your knees bent and your chest/head up will help you balance over your blades, you don’t want to be leaning too far forward or too far backward. When you start to fall (and you will fall) go limp like you are jelly and you’ll fall easier, just don’t tense up and go rigid. Everyone falls so don’t be embarrassed, it’s all part of learning. The important thing is to have fun and be safe!
Okay, enough rambling. Here is my list if anyone is interested.
Figure Skates
Riedell 625 Soft Shoe Figure Skates
Knee Pads
Under Armour Unisex Volleyball Knee Pads
Hip/Tailbone Padded Shorts
Pro-Tech Women’s IPS Low Profile Hip Pads
Soft Elbow Pads
Triple 8 Covert Elbow Pads
Wrist Guards
Triple 8 Saver Series Wrist Guards
Fujoshi.Life 