Sizing Roller Hockey Skates

Breaking In Your Roller Hockey Skates
Care of Roller Hockey Skates





Common Misconceptions

   Before you buy your new skates, there are a few things that you should be aware of. First, never wrap your laces around your ankle to tie them. This prevents the forward flex of the foot and ankle and will impair your speed and ability to turn. Correct lacing is to keep the toe laces looser, while tightening down on the top three eyelets at the ankle for maximum support. Never skip any of the ankle eyelets, because even

strong ankles need maximum support. An improperly laced skated can make skating more painful and even cause blisters.
   The second myth you may have heard is that people with "weak ankles" will never be able to skate. These skaters may find that their feet flop from side to side and in worst cases find themselves skating on their insteps. Most often this disability can be remedied by properly fitted skates bought from a specialized retailer, like us. Department store skates will not offer the support or comfort of a quality skate, and will usually sacrifice performance and delay improvement of skill.


Sizing Roller Hockey Skates

   Most of the roller hockey skates we offer here at Online Skate House run 1 to 1-1/2 sizes smaller than standard U.S. shoe size. If you have a wide foot, we recommend going only 1 size smaller, where a standard foot should move 1-1/2 sizes down. This is true for all but Mission Skates, which are made to match your standard U.S. shoe size.


 
Fitting Your Skates

  • Remove your shoes and put on a pair of thin sport socks. It is not suggested to wear skates bare foot as this promotes bacteria and corrosion of the materials.
  • Put the skate on your foot and kick back in order to lock the heel into the back of the skate. Lace the skate firmly with the most lace pressure at the top 4 eyelets. Always try on both skates laced to the top as you would when playing.
    • Walk around to feel if there is any painful pressure point or heel slippage. Adjust the size accordingly with the ultimate fit coming with the toes feathering the toe cap in an upright position and a consistent pressure surrounding the foot.

    Breaking In Your Roller Hockey Skates

    • Do not wear thick socks (wool or other) as a longer, wider skate will be needed and the proper fit will not be achieved. A white cotton sock is ideal.
    • If necessary, have pressure points, especially around the ankle area, 'punched out'. Your skate dealer or local orthopedic shop could help you with this.
    • The best way to break-in a pair of skates is to skate in them. We do not recommend using other methods (e.g. heating the skate) to expedite the process.

    Back To Top

    Care and Maintenance of Roller Hockey Skates

    • DO NOT leave boots in skate bag when not in use. Leave boots in open to air and completely dry; loosen laces and open boot 'throat' to better allow air flow
    • Rotate your wheels to promote even wear. A good rule of thumb is every 40-60 miles. When rotating the wheels from front to back, turn them so the inside edge (which receives most wear), faces out. This assures an even wear on both sides.
    • Bearings need to be serviced when needed. Build up of contaminates and dirt will effect your mobility. Serviceable bearings have a removable out ring and can be degreased and relubricated. Non-serviceable bearings should be wiped clean with a dry cloth. NEVER lubricate the outside of the bearing, because this only attracts dirt and other contaminates.


    Back To Top