How do you size Ice Skates?

How do I figure out what size ice skates to get for my kids?

• At the rink they wore a different size than their regular shoe. I've heard that every brand is different in what size you get. Thanks.

• Answer:

  You do not mention the ages of your children. However, if they are under the ages of about 12 years their feet are still growing. In fact, their feet may be increasing rapidily in size even over the winter or skating season. Keeping them in skates that are their exact size could become very expensive. In addition to this consideration, I think that the shape of the foot needs to be regarded as a factor. Whether the arches or high, or whether the wearer is flat-footed may make a difference. Boots that are snug may press on the artery at the top of the foot and cause further discomfort as wearing time progresses, especially if the wearer has high arches. Flat-footed people MAY be able to get away with a smaller fit. Depending too on what you want your children to get out of skating, and based on your finances, you may wish to leave them with a reasonable amount of growing space. Many people feel that a snug fit is important for attaining greater speed, but a snug fit should not be an uncomfortable fit. It is true that the foot should not slide around in the skate, but at the same time, it should be comfortable for the wearer in the interest of enjoyment of the sport. I can tell you about a personal experience I had when I was trying to purchase some skates just for leisure. The sales clerk insisted that I should buy a pair of skates that were a whole size smaller than my shoe size. I tried on a number of pairs and they all hurt, even before I moved around in them. After people have been on their feet for a while they will swell to some extent even if the wearer does not suffer from a medical condition that is characterized by swelling. I ended up with a pair that was my shoe size and did not regret it. Children, however, often are not as assertive as adults, and they may not speak up if the skate is not sufficiently comfortable.