Size
The boot sizes that skates come with. One skate model can have a full
fixed size grid (
25,
26,
27,
28,
29,
30,
31,
32,
33,
34,
35,
36,
37,
38,
39,
40,
41,
42,
43,
44,
45,
46 size) and include both
children's skates(teenagers) and adults. And for models with
adjustable sizes(see "Type of boot"), size ranges are indicated in this paragraph, while one model can be produced in several range options. For example, the designation "35-38, 39-42" means that the skates are available in two versions: one is adjustable from size 35 to 37, the second is from 39 to 42.
interior material
The interior material is in direct contact with the foot, so the comfort of wearing skates largely depends on it.
—
Nylon. Synthetic nylon fibre is the most popular option due to its wear resistance, durability and reliability combined with a low price.
—
Faux fur. This material is used not only for practical purposes, but also for decorative purposes. And in addition to a pleasant appearance, it is also pleasant to the touch and retains heat well.
—
Genuine leather. Interior material used primarily in figure skating models (see Skating Style). At the same time, the boot itself can be made of both natural and artificial leather. Anyway, natural leather fits snugly around the leg and absorbs moisture well, but it is expensive and poorly protects against the cold.
—
Synthetic fabric. Usually, in this case, a synthetic fabric is meant, which differs in composition from the nylon described above. The specific composition and overall quality of this fabric may vary depending on the price range of the skate, but it is generally quite durable and reliable.
— Microfibre. A type of synthetic fibre made up of very fine threads. This material provides excellent thermal insulation and at the same time allows the foot to “breathe”, and also removes moisture well. On the other hand, it costs more
...than the same nylon, and the mentioned advantages are fundamental mainly for professional use. Therefore, microfibre is rare, mostly found in high-end hockey skates.Ankle support
Skates have additional
ankle support.
This feature means that each boot has special protrusions for additional fixation of the ankle joint. This reduces the risk of injury. Of course, a boot with such a function should be high; however, note that not every high boot provides a full-fledged fixation of the ankle — this detail is typical mainly for rather expensive skates.
Type of steel
A type of steel used in skate blades. Different grades of steel differ primarily in hardness and resistance to corrosion. In general, the harder the blades, the longer they last and the less often you have to sharpen them, but increasing the hardness reduces corrosion resistance and affects the cost. In addition, the quality of steel often depends not only on its type, but also on the price category of skates. Specific types can be:
—
Stainless. The most inexpensive and softest type of "skate" steel, which, however, can be used even in fairly advanced skates. Note that, despite the name, "stainless steel" is still not completely resistant to rust, and the blades still need to be wiped dry after use.
—
Alloyed. Steel with special additives that improve hardness and some other properties. Somewhat harder than stainless steel and keeps sharpening longer, but it resists rust worse, is more demanding to care for, and is more expensive.
—
Carbon. Steel with a high carbon content is very hard and holds sharpening for a long time. On the other hand, such an alloy costs accordingly and requires careful maintenance, since it rusts easily from prolonged contact with moisture.
—
High carbon. Steel with a very high carbon content. The hardest and at the same time the most expensive variety, moreover, it is d
...ifficult to sharpen and sensitive to rust (however, in terms of the latter property, such steel almost does not differ from “ordinary” carbon steel).
