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ASK MR. EDGE
February 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.
Welcome once again to everyone who takes the time to read this monthly article. I'm glad that I'm able to help so many skaters, but at the same time, I'm sorry to hear that so many of you are having problems.
It's the middle of winter already and, oh so, bitterly cold outside.
This time of year it's definitely not a good idea to leave your skates in the car overnight, especially if you've just finished skating. The moisture in the boots, combined with below freezing temperatures, can lead to extremely cold skates – so cold that your feet might never warm up the next time you're on the ice, which can cause cramping in your toes and arches.
If possible, always leave your skates out to dry at room temperature.
Having said that, I guess it's time to move on to answering some of the many questions you have sent. But before I do, allow me to remind you once again to double check your return e-mail address when you send your question. Unfortunately, there's just not enough space on this page to respond to all the questions I receive, and if you don't include a correct e-mail address, I won't be able to write back to you with an answer to your question.
OK, now for this month's questions.
How often should you replace the laces in your skates?
Leslie, Detroit, Mich.
Well Leslie, there are many skaters who leave their laces in for as long as they have their skates, while others will change them at least once a year. Eventually laces do wear out, especially the all-nylon kind. If your laces are beginning to loosen up all the time, then it is probably time to change them.
My skates hug my toes too tightly. What do you think I should do about this?
Alexandra, Menahga, Minn.
- Have your feet measured to see if they have grown.
- Be sure your heels are all the way back into your skates before lacing
- Keep your toes pointed up while lacing, and not flat on the ground.
- Have your skates stretched at a shoe repair shop (two days minimum required).
How can I keep the inside of my skates smelling fresh and clean?
Monica, Bryn Mawr, Pa.
This is a pretty common problem for skaters, especially hockey players. First, remember to let your boots air out overnight. Don't leave them locked up in a skate bag until the next time you go skating. If this doesn't work, try using medicated powder on your feet instead of sprinkling it directly into your boots. You may also want to put a cloth laundry freshener sheet inside your boots.
What do I need to know before I build a rink with “fake” ice?
Mary, Hampton, N.H.
It's not an easy task, or an inexpensive one. No matter what size you are thinking of, it would cost many thousands of dollars to build and maintain a fake ice rink. More importantly, however, is the wear and tear your blades would take on fake ice. How do you feel about replacing your blades on a yearly basis?
How long does it take to land an Axel?
Anonymous
It takes as long as it takes! One might as well ask how long it takes to learn how to ride a bicycle, or spin a basketball on your finger, or learn to throw a curve ball, etc.
I think my space is up for this month. ‘Til next time, have a great skate.
Mr. Edge
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.
