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ASK MR. EDGE

January 2008

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.



I happened to run across some insider information that I'd like to share with you.

A couple days prior to writing this column, I received approval to mention a new boot I had the chance to preview during one of my recent trips.

During the past year, Riedell has conducted some serious research, and guess what? They've come up with a totally new model boot that is certain to please coaches and skaters alike. Dubbed the 2010 LS, it includes the following features:

  • Low-cut backstay – allows skaters to point their toes with little to no effort
  • Roll-top collar – adds comfort to the top edge of the boot
  • New tongue design – for added comfort throughout the instep area
  • Microfiber lining – smooth and comfort throughout for easy break-in
  • Lightweight – 20-25 percent lighter
Riedell is considering a few more features, but I think this is enough to give it an “A” on my report card. The only problem is that the boot isn't available until after March 1, 2008.

I've also heard other companies are planning some remarkable new releases, but you'll have to wait until I get the nod before releasing that information. In upcoming columns, I'll be reviewing new product releases for 2008.

Swiching topics, is there a difference between a custom boot and a custom-fitted boot? The argument can be made that there is no need for a custom boot as long as you can get a good, custom fit.

A custom boot offers:

  • Leather hand-cut according to several measurements taken by boot fitter
  • Several cosmetic and functional options from which to choose
  • More design and individualized hands-on work for manufacturer
  • A boot that (hopefully) fits as well as you would expect
A custom-fitted boot offers:
  • An accurate measurement of the foot for length and width to determine size and width of stock boot
  • Several cosmetic and functional options from which to choose
  • Starting with a stock boot, a bit more individualized hands-on work for the manufacturer
  • A boot that (hopefully) fits as well as you would expect
Is there really a difference between a custom boot and a custom-fitted boot? Can a skater have the best of both worlds?

In short, yes. This, of course, depends on your definition of the word “custom”: custom made or custom to your foot.

Enter the rapidly expanding area of special makeups. This is where you start with a stock boot of your choice and make minor changes. Since the leather is not being hand cut by the manufacturer, it's not considered to be a true custom boot.

Most boot manufacturers offer a special makeup. Some will allow only a couple or so changes, while others allow almost all of their options to be used in a special makeup. Of course, there is a significant additional charge for this, but it still cheaper than a full, customized boot.

Best of all is the fact that if you have someone who really knows boots, you'll come out even or only a couple percentage points short of a true, full, customized boot.

You be the judge.

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.