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ASK MR. EDGE
August/September 2006
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.
1. Most skaters are in too stiff a boot, leading to many of the foot, ankle, knee, hip and back injuries.
2. Many skaters are improperly fitted, which also causes problems and injury.
3. Many blades are incorrectly mounted, again causing injury.
4. It is less costly to buy two pairs of boots per year rather than one really stiff boot, hoping it will last longer.
5. With a properly fitted boot, you are actually able to skate with less support in the boot.
Well, that pretty much sums up my last column. If you want more, then you know where to find it.
As I've always said, after all these years I'm still learning things. Allow me to share a story about a problem a skater had (past tense).
During the course of the year, Meagan had developed a small rash on her instep and ankle area. At first we figured it was from her feet sweating so much. However, as time went on, the rash became worse, even to the point of bleeding. After several applications of various foot powders and other medications, it was time to see a specialist. Again, nothing seemed to work, and the more she skated, the worse the rash became.
Finally, an inspirational thought came to her mom. She decided to line the entire inside back and ankle area of her boot with moleskin. Immediately the rash began to subside and within a short time had completely gone away. And guess what? Her boots are much dryer than they have ever been. How about that?
It's that time to answer those important questions you've sent to me.
Q: I have had my boots for three years. I am always landing flat-footed, can't point my toes, and have trouble bending my knees. I am working on all my doubles and silver dances. I have high arches, pronating feet and my boots can't stand much more punching.
Olivia, Canadagiua, N.Y.
A: Just give them one good knockout blow to the backside and call it a night. Other than that, you may want to go to a much softer boot, about two or maybe even three steps down from what you're now using. They should have a lower cut back on them and a V-cut notch. Also, invest in a dance blade. Take your current boots and replace the blade with a shorter new one (only if your current blade is going from end to end). This will take care of your flat-footed landings.
Q: Every time I put on my boots I have to tighten them extra tight so they don't come undone. This is causing me severe ankle pain after skating for only a short while.
Alissa, Chesapeake, Va.
A: See if this work for you. Have the ankle area of your boots punched out. There is a special punch for this, and most proshops have one. I would also be willing to bet that your ankles are extremely narrow, and in order to bring the boots up close around them it's necessary to tie them very tight. You'll need a better fitting boot for your next pair. Lastly, if you're using all-nylon laces, replace them with the 50/50 cotton/nylon blend.
Well, moms, dads, skaters, once again it's that time to say adios to all my readers out there. I hope you've enjoyed this month's column.
Have a great skate,
Mr. Edge
FYI: I'll be at the Eastern Great Lakes Regional Championship in Ann Arbor, Mich. If I can be of service to anyone, stop and see me. I'll be tending the Harlick booth.
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.
