About Us

ASK MR. EDGE

May 2009

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.

When those hot days arrive, expect a lot of humidity inside and outside, so after skating make certain to completely wipe your blades dry and place your soakers on them. Do not leave your blade guards on and make sure you dry off as much water as you can from them as well.

Remember that you'll be going from a cold rink to the hot outdoors, and because of the temperature change, you'll get a light frosty buildup on your blades if they are not completely dry. If you fail to dry your blades and this continues, expect rust to build up along the bottom and sides of your blades. Not to worry though, with a dab of oil and a metal finishing pad, you'll be able to take the rust right off the sides. If you have rust buildup along the hollow, you'll need to have the blades sharpened again.

Boots, however, are another problem. Bacteria just loves hot, humid places and will thrive inside your boots all summer long and continue year-round unless something is done.

One way to help control the bacteria, moisture and odor in your boots is to start treating them when they are new. What most skaters don't realize is that their first line of defense is to take care of their feet. Many skaters have feet that naturally sweat profusely. In order to help prevent this, I suggest using a medicated foot powder. Before putting on your socks or tights, sprinkle the powder directly on your feet. It does no good to put it on afterward or to sprinkle it in your boots. Keeping your feet dry will help control the sweat and odor problem.

If it's already too late for that, then the best you can do is to try and control the odor and bacteria growth in the boots. One method that can be used is a 50-50 bleach and water mixture. Mix the two and simply wipe out the insides of your boots. You may want to leave them out of the house for a while.

I also heard some pet supply stores sells an industrial grade odor control product for pets that works great.

Also, remember to loosen your laces, pull your tongues forward and leave your boots out to dry before placing them in your locker or skate bag. Keeping your boots dry will help to control bacteria and mold growth.

The following are questions from SKATING readers.

Q: What do you do if your skates are too small and your feet are two different sizes?
Anna from Chelsea, Mich.

A: Depending how much your feet grew, it may be possible to have them stretched so they are comfortable enough to skate in. If this doesn't work, then it's time for new boots. Secondly, if you're skating more than eight hours a week and working on your Axel and beyond, then it's important that both boots fit you exactly with no room to spare. Hopefully, your bigger foot is the landing foot. This is the one that you don't want slipping around in your boots. If you're at a beginning level and skating fewer than four hours a week, then purchase a boot where both are the same size.

Q: Where can I find top quality pink ice skates for men?
Sammy from Torrance, Calif.

A: Unfortunately, pink is not a stock color and can only be purchased with a special or custom makeup. Most companies offer pink, either in leather, suede or both.

'Til next time,

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.