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October 2004

Mr. Edge is a qualified skate technician with years and years of experience. He can answer your questions on boots, blades and foot problems related to your equipment. Questions will be answered in SKATING magazine and later posted on the web site.



It's not too often that I find something noteworthy enough to comment on. But in referring back to the May and June/July issues of SKATING magazine, there were two articles written by Linda Tremain, PT, ATC, about boot problems and solutions that lend credence to what I've been telling skaters since I've started writing my own articles and even many years before that. I don't want to say I told you so, but, “I told you so!”

Common injuries

Let's start with a review of the May 2004 article in which Tremain talks about the types and number of injuries that skaters encounter over a period of time.

In working with younger skaters I see only a small percentage of skaters with lower back problems, so I have no comment as to the percentage of skaters with that particular injury. However, from my experience the percentages do rise from lowest to highest beginning with:

  • Stress fractures: 1 percent
  • Hip, groin, ankle sprains: 1 percent
  • Numbness and tingling from lacing too tight: 2 percent
  • Ankle bursitis: 2 percent
  • Tendonitis from lace bite: 5 percent
  • Numbness and tingling from narrow boots: 5 percent
  • Tendonitis of the ankle and lower calf at the top of the boot: 10 percent
  • Hammer toes or corns across tops of toes: 10 percent
  • Kneecap (patella) alignment: 20 percent
  • Pump bumps on heels: 30 percent
  • Navicular bones in arches: 40 percent
  • Bunions and various foot deformities: 70 percent

    I must point out that Tremain evaluated novice and junior skaters at the High Performance Evaluation and Sports Sciences and Medicine Workshop, hence the finding of a 34 percent rise in lower back pain. In her research, alignment and tracking problems of the kneecap (patella) were 26 percent, while hip/groin pain, and ankle sprains rose 23 percent. All skaters must remember that there is no quick fix for these problems and that attention must be given to the many thousands of younger skaters in order to prevent these and many other injuries.

    I have to totally agree that most problems occur due to: boots being too stiff; improper fit of boots in the length and width; faulty blade alignment on boots; and bad blade sharpening.

    With regards to the weight of boots, I agree that some are heavier than others. But most of the excess weight also occurs because parents many times want a boot that will far outlast its normal usefulness and end up buying one that is stiff for their child and far too big (which requires a longer blade). In effect, this adds too much extra unnecessary weight.

    Good boots & boot defects

    Though not having had the opportunity to examine the skater's boots in Tremain's research, I believe that the number of boot defects quoted (20 percent), can actually be attributed to the fact that few people who mount blades take the time to level the boots. Leveling the boots ensures that the blades lay properly level on the boots.

    Most take the easy way out and either use wedges under the blade to level them or end up sending the boots back claiming some sort of defect. This is a great after-the-fact way to blame someone else for a skater's injury, rather than taking personal responsibility for the mistake.

    There are two other notes I forgot to mention. First is that skate boots do not measure up equally in any way, shape or form to your street shoes. Always be sure to be measured for skate size and not shoe size.

    Secondly is the bendability ratio. The reasoning and numbers speak for themselves and I'm in total agreement with them.

    Well, that takes care of the first article, now on to the second. I can't argue with the fact that for many skaters their boots are too heavy. But I think a happy medium can be reached between leather and composite boots. Let me tie this in with the need for all skaters to take the time and spend a little extra money for an off-ice exercise program that will help strengthen their ankle and foot muscles, thus helping to prevent injury. If there is ever a doubt that your feet may be pronating far too much, have them looked at by a professional to decide whether or not orthotics will help.

    Remember that it may be necessary to visit more than one store to try on boots, but keep in mind that no matter how many boots you try on, the most comfortable one is probably too big for you. Only have a trusted and knowledgeable professional fit you for your skates. This is someone who has the knowledge of how each manufacturer's boot will fit a particular shape of foot.

    Well, not much else to say except to read these articles and heed the advice. You never know, they may just save you a lot of pain and aggravation in the future. Till next time…

    Mr. Edge and all related elements are property of Arena Sports & Consulting Services, Inc. ©2013. Send your questions to Mr. Edge via mail (Ask Mr. Edge, SKATING magazine, 20 First Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80906); FAX (719) 635-9548 or e-mail them online.

    The opinions of Mr. Edge are his own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the U.S. Figure Skating or SKATING magazine. Remember, if you have problems with your feet, check with a doctor – the problem may very well be with your boot, but it could be more serious. Check with your local pro shop for more information about boots and blades.