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ASK MR. EDGE
December 2002
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.
Having a problem with your skates or boots? Can't find the answers? Well, Mr. Edge is here to answer all your questions. With many years of experience and a never-ending resource list, he can help you solve your boot, blade and foot problems.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas almost everywhere you go! It's time once again to put on the long johns, hunker down by the fireplace and watch some old-time classic movies! But before we do that, I must clarify a little matter that has come to my attention.
It seems that there has been some misunderstanding about how long a skate sharpening should last. I must admit that maybe I have not made myself clear enough on this matter. However, properly sharpened skates are one of the keys to being successful on the ice. Many routine problems can be solved if a professional sharpener keeps your equipment in tip-top shape. So, skaters, try this!
For the average individual skating on softer ice 2-3 days per week, one hour per session, and only doing single jumps, you should be getting 5-6 weeks from a good sharpening.
As for the intense competitor who is skating 5-6 days per week, at least two sessions a day skating on medium hard to harder ice, you should only expect to get at most 3 weeks or 22-26 hours from a good sharpening. NOTE: I said AT MOST! You may need to have them sharpened more often than that. Experience will help you find the perfect timeframe for sharpening.
Now that I've cleared that up, let's move on to your questions.
I am a novice skater and have skated for just a year. I would like advice on buying a “good” pair of skates, new or used. I don't plan on skating like Michelle Kwan, but I currently own a $25 pair of skates and know that I need to upgrade. Any advice? Hope, R.I.
Well hopeless, oops, I mean hope, lend me your ear and listen up. The chances of finding a good, used pair of skates in an adult size is slim to none. You'll have better luck playing the lottery. Seriously now, I would invest in a better boot and a slightly better blade at this point in time. You're probably going to have to spend around $350 to get both the comfort and proper blade for your level of skating. I would search around for someone who has a great deal of experience with all the boot manufacturers and can give you really good advice. Ask other skaters or coaches and see who they recommend. Shop around, but don't let price sway your decision. Buy from a reputable dealer.
My daughter bought a used pair of skates about six months ago and has wobbled in them ever since. We had the blades moved because they were not properly mounted, but this has not helped. She is 10 years old and a Free Skate Level 5 skater. She should be able to hold an edge without wobbling. I tie her skates to make sure they are tight. Any suggestions? Bolingbrook, Ill.
First off, it is very difficult to find a used pair of boots in good enough condition for a FS 5 skater. However, from what you are describing, I would venture to say that the boots are way too big on her — not necessarily in the length, but around her heels and ankles. This is the main reason for her troubles. I would suggest that you contact someone in your area who has the experience and knowledge to see that your daughter is fitted correctly.
Remember to keep those questions coming! Well, moms, dads and skaters everywhere, once again this is Mr. Edge wishing you the very best in skating and happy holidays to all! See you next year!
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.
