The first time shopping for hockey skates, things can get confusing. There are so many brands and types, different choices and considerations that picking a single pair can be tough. With a bit of research and a good salesperson, it\’s possible to find the right pair every time.

The first thing to know is what position the person will play. Goalies wear a different type entirely than the rest of the players. Goalies need a more stable surface, and less overall speed, so their blades are usually flatter and longer, more like a speed skater might use. But they also need more flexibility and the ability to move their ankles a lot, so the boot is also different. They often don\’t have as much built in protection or padding as those used by other players. The padding for goalies covers most of the foot, so the boot doesn\’t have to.

All the other players wear some variation on the standard type of boot and blade combination. They\’re designed to offer protection to the foot itself. They also have a fully attached blade, which allows faster turning, stopping, and changing of directions. The design, however, changes from player to player depending on what they prefer.

Depending on position, players often want a different curve on their blade. The curve, and where it peaks, determines where the players center of balance will be. New players, who may not know what they\’re doing and often have bad balance, will have a much longer section with little to no curve, and the peak at the center. Other players may prefer less metal on the ice, and a more extreme curve.

New players will often go for the most ankle support, convinced that it will help them stay on their feet. While it can be helpful for people prone to injuries, lacing tight enough for real support is tough and can cut off circulation to the feet. A better option is to choose well protected ankles with just enough padding and support to keep the boots on while skating. That helps develop ankle strength, and reduces injuries.

Padding in general is another thing to think about. Some people prefer not to wear socks, allowing them to \”feel\” the ice. They also don\’t usually want much padding in the foot bed. Because they don\’t have the protection of a sock, though, they need more padding to minimize rubbing or other injury in other parts of the boot.

Finally, some brands can heat mold the boot to a person\’s foot. They heat the boot, then have the player wear it for a length of time. This allows the shape to form to the players foot more precisely. This is often preferred by those who don\’t wear socks, which can change the shape of the foot.

Armed with basic knowledge, shopping for hockey skates is less scary. After the first pair are found, it gets even easier. Even with changing styles and models, most brands keep something similar around.

When selecting your next hockey sticks or pair of hockey skates, visit Pro Hockey Life. With the combination of their large product selection and expert staff you are sure to find the right hockey equipment to satisfy your needs and wants.

When selecting your next hockey sticks or pair of hockey skates, visit Pro Hockey Life. With the combination of their large product selection and expert staff you are sure to find the right hockey equipment to satisfy your needs and wants.
http://www.prohockeylife.com

Author Bio: When selecting your next hockey sticks or pair of hockey skates, visit Pro Hockey Life. With the combination of their large product selection and expert staff you are sure to find the right hockey equipment to satisfy your needs and wants.

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