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ASK MR. EDGE
January 2005
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.
Unbelievable – Incredible – Outstanding – Awesome!
It's already January 2005, which means the “Ask Mr. Edge” column has survived another year. I guess an anniversary party of some sort is in order!
Many thanks to all the parents, coaches, skaters and everyone else who continue to read this column and support it by sending in your questions every month. Without your support this would not have been possible. I'm very grateful to everyone and look forward to another year of writing this column.
Just a quick reminder! When you send a question, be sure you provide an accurate e-mail address. If you give me an incorrect e-mail address, it makes it impossible for me to write back to you with an answer.
The competition season is well under way, especially for the synchronized teams. Every year, more and more skaters are turning to synchronized, or team skating, and most who participate on a team are required to change the color of their boots to tan, with bark being the most popular, while others will use tan Sk8 Tape or Mondor over-the-boot tights.
If you need to re-dye your boots, it would be wise to let a professional do the dirty work. In the past few years, many of the boot manufactures have made the outer layer of leather on skating boots much more resistant to wear. Because of this, it has become more difficult to remove enough of the white polish so the new tan color will hold without wearing away.
To remove all of the white polish you'll need a sandblasting machine. So, unless someone on your team has such a machine, it's best to let a shoe repair shop that specializes in re-dying shoes do the work.
Having said all that, it's time to move on to your questions.
Q: I have a cyst on my right ankle. How do I get rid of it?
Angie, Salt Lake City
A: First we need to determine the cause and then work on getting rid of it. Most likely the cyst was caused by your anklebone rubbing against the side of your boots. It's quite likely that your boots are either too stiff for you, your laces are too loose, or that the ankle pocket is too wide and your foot is slipping back and forth inside, or it could be a combination of all three. You will need to see a podiatrist to take care of that cyst. If it's not too late, they will be able to drain it and take down the swelling. Otherwise, it will harden and become a permanent feature. Next, have the ankle area of your boot punched out. This will relieve the rubbing against your anklebone. Also, make sure your laces are tied tight.
Q: I keep losing the screws from my blades and I'm getting frustrated. What can I do to solve this problem?
Nathan, LaVerne
A: Well Nathan, you've sure come to the right place. First, plug all your holes with an epoxy material that is quick hardening. These materials normally come in a two-part solution that you have to mix together before using. There are various brands on the market, and you can find them at most any hardware store. Just before you re-mount your blades, take some clear silicon caulk and place it around the underside of the sole and heel plates. After mounting your blades, wipe off any excess that seeps out and cover all the open holes you are not using. I usually leave out one screw in the heel plate and two in the sole plate.
Q: The sides of my feet ache so much that I may have to give up skating. Is there anything I can do besides quitting?
Martha, Charlottesville
A: Don't give up the ship yet my dear. First, try stretching your skates. They should remain on the stretchers for at least two-three days. If this doesn't work, that means your skates are too narrow for your feet and you will need wider ones, perhaps even a special make or custom depending on how wide your feet are.
Well folks, my time has come to an end and I have to say, Happy Skating.
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.
