What equipment is needed for kids to start ice skating?
Aside from getting the proper skates, ensure your child has the right gear to hit the ice safely, from comfortable clothing and helmets to knee pads and elbow pads. From there, you can begin teaching them the basics: standing up, falling (safely), gliding, and stopping.
What age can kids start ice skating?
Typically, kids can begin learning to ice skate as early as 2 or 3 years old. While every child is different, if they can walk comfortably on their own, they can most likely learn to skate. Be sure to practice extra caution and carefulness when beginning your kids’ skating journey!
What size ice skates do I need for my kid?
As a general rule, kids’ hockey skates should typically be one size lower than their everyday shoe size, while kids’ figure skates should remain the same size as their traditional shoes.
Should kids use hockey or figure skates to start?
When choosing the right style of ice skates for your child, first consider how they’ll be most likely used in the future, as both figure skates and hockey skates boast different features. Figure skates are designed for figure skating maneuvers like jumps and spins, and are generally made from softer materials and are easier to balance in. On the other hand, hockey skates are shorter, feature more protective padding, and have a more curved blade for enhanced power and swifter turning.