Equipment and Clothing

• Figure skates that fit properly and do up tightly with laces (highly recommended not to
  have molded ones)
• No Helmets (CanSkate 5 must be achieved before helmets are no longer worn)
• Skate guards for off the ice (protects the blades from dings and keeps them sharper
  longer)
• Skating dresses, skirts or stretchy black pants, no jeans allowed
• Jacket/pull over without a hood. No hoodies, baggy sweatshirts, or big winter jackets
  please, layer up if necessary
• Hair must be tied back (unless it is too short)
• Thin nylon mitts, double up if necessary but no big gloves please

It might be a good idea to keep an extra hair elastic, mitts and even a jacket in your skating bag for those “oops, I forgot…” days

Skates
It is highly recommended to go visit a store that deals exclusively with figure skates and figure skating supplies when purchasing skates or getting them adjusted and sharpened. These stores have trained professionals that will recommend good quality boots and blades, and will help find the brand, style, and fit that works best for your skater based on their foot shape and skating ability level. These stores also often carry a selection of good quality gently used skates at a discounted price.

Suggested places to buy skates

United Cycle (7620 Gateway Blvd NW, Edmonton)
Pro Skate (16972 - 111 Ave NW, Edmonton)

Additional local places to sharpen skates

Sin Bin Sports (2010 B Sherwood Drive, Sherwood Park)
Bladz Skate Shop (#105 – 26 Strathmoor Drive, Sherwood Park)

Taking care of your skates

1. Always dry blades thoroughly after skating (including the boot’s sole)
2. After drying skates thoroughly, cover and store the blades inside of towel-like soft guards.
3. Wear hard rubber/plastic skate guards on the blades when walking on any surface other than the ice!
4. Get blades sharpened on a regular basis (about every 6-8 weeks) by a professional
5. Do not leave or store blades inside of plastic or rubber skate guards
6. When you get home after skating, take your skates out of your bag and open the boots up a bit so they can air out