Speed skates are different from hockey skates in that the blade is square, and does not have a hollow groove. Speed skates also have rocker (like hockey skates, which have a lot of rocker to allow the skater to make sharp turns), but it is much less than in hockey skates because speed skates are meant to go straight rather than turning sharply. Short track blades have more rocker than long track blades. More advanced Short Track skaters also have a “bend” which is where the blade is bent in a very slight reverse C shape to facilitate cornering. Long track blades do not have bend, but many of them are the “clap” style, where the heel is free enabling the blade to remain in contact with the ice for longer during the very long and hard push that is typical of long track skating. The club will bend and rocker skates that we rent to members and this will normally be done prior to season start.
Please contact the Equipment Manager for bending and rockering personal skates.
Short track boots tend to have more ankle support than long track boots. If your child wants to skate on the long track oval, their short track boots and blades are adequate when they are at a young age – there is no need to invest in two different types of skates and boots. As their interest and ability in long track skating develops, there are less expensive options for getting long track equipment. For example, one can purchase long track clap blades which are spaced to fit on a short track boot. This eliminates the need to buy a second pair of boots during the time when skater’s feet are still growing. There is also the option to rent from the club while your skater is still unsure whether they would like to continue speed skating.
Please contact the Equipment Manager for bending and rockering personal skates.
Short track boots tend to have more ankle support than long track boots. If your child wants to skate on the long track oval, their short track boots and blades are adequate when they are at a young age – there is no need to invest in two different types of skates and boots. As their interest and ability in long track skating develops, there are less expensive options for getting long track equipment. For example, one can purchase long track clap blades which are spaced to fit on a short track boot. This eliminates the need to buy a second pair of boots during the time when skater’s feet are still growing. There is also the option to rent from the club while your skater is still unsure whether they would like to continue speed skating.