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ASK MR. EDGE
May 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. This month, Mr. Edge discusses issues relating to blade sizes and the best boot to buy for ice dancing. Read on and learn!
Spring at last. Well, maybe. What ever happened to spring this year? I think Mother Nature is playing with us again, not to mention the weatherman. I don't know how to dress anymore ... for winter, spring, rain or shine! Oh well!
Anyone interested in hearing about my trip to the U.S. Adult Championships? It was a really great time, and I met a lot of wonderful people while in Ann Arbor, Mich., and went to many great restaurants.
As I was enjoying some great company and discussion, a couple of rather interesting questions were posed to me. The first one was ... “Do adult skaters experience the same problems as younger skaters?” and secondly, “How would an adult skater's boots and blades differ from those of a much younger skater?”
Throughout my 25 years of experience, I've seen numerous adult skaters and, I must say yes, adult skaters do indeed experience some but not all of the same problems as younger skaters. These problems can range anywhere from the usual sore ankles to blisters on the backs of their heels to cramping arches. One distinct difference I've noticed though is (now pay attention everyone else!) how well adults keep their skates. They are really clean and in great shape — almost too good of shape! This leads me into my second answer.
It appears to me that many adults do indeed use the same strength boots as younger skaters. There is nothing wrong with this except that there is really no need for adult skaters to over support themselves. This would also partially explain why so many adult skaters end up with sore ankles or they can't bend enough in their boots. Because of work and family schedules, many adult skaters only practice two to three days a week for an hour or so. That kind of practice schedule does not require a double strength boot. Moreover, many adult skaters don't go out and pop off 30 jumps in an hour like some of the younger skaters. However, for those who can, GREAT! I know how tough it must be to get up and go to work the next morning! As far as blades are concerned, depending upon the discipline, the same blades are being used by both kids and adults.
So what should the proper amount of support be for adult skaters? This is a question that can only be addressed on an individual basis pending the discipline involved and other limiting factors, including the weight of the skater. Most adults have bit the bullet and bought custom boots for themselves — comfort factor, ya know!
Well, enough for the U.S. Adult Championships and moving right along with answers to your questions ...
I'm just getting started. I skated in my youth, but am still feeling 18 ... ha ha. The boots are snug, and I have developed a somewhat small bunion over the past year. Would moleskin help to prevent blistering in sensitive spots on my feet? I have enrolled in a six-week adult skating program. I want to jump and spin and glide again. Lincolnville, Maine
Good luck in your program! But really now, it sounds to me that your skates are too big in certain areas of your foot. Or maybe you are not kicking back on your heel before lacing them up. Nevertheless, moleskin is a good product, but perhaps you may find that Bunga Pads would work much better in certain situations.
I always get this rash on the top of my foot from my feet sweating in my skates. Do you know of something to help it? Pittsburgh, Pa.
Once again, Dr. Edgemeister to the rescue! The rash is probably caused from a bacterial or fungal build-up between the tongue lining and the outer leather of the tongue. This is usually caused by the sweat from your feet. The other possible cause is that you are allergic to the tongue lining of your boots. I would suggest you first call the boot manufacturer, and speak with them. Secondly, have your doctor suggest some sort of antibacterial or fungal powder that you can use on your feet. Lastly, air out your boots so they can dry properly.
Well, skating fans, my time has come to an end, and once again I must say goodbye!
Thanks so much for reading my column, and be sure to send me any questions you may have with regards to any foot, boot or blade problems. I'll do my best to answer them, and be assured that you will receive a return e-mail with the answer. Until next time, this is Mr. Edge wishing you a pleasant spring.
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.
