Info & Tips

Figure skating is arguably the hardest ice sport in existence. 

At the highest level, figure skaters must be strong, technically sound, creative, and resilient.  

It requires hours of practice and years of mastery, which is why figure skaters start at a young age. 

Figure skaters also need high-performance figure skates, and none are more trusted among the top ice skaters than Edea.  

Almost 50% of Olympic figure skaters use Edea and while they are known for their quality, they are also known for their cost.  

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BREAK-IN YOUR NEW EDEA SKATES AT HOME WITH POLYGLIDE SYNTHETIC ICE

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The best Edea ice skates can be expensive and most come without the blades. 

That does not mean it’s out of reach for you.

There are options below $1000 that are worth every penny.  

In this guide, we reveal the 8 models that you can cop that will provide you with all of the fantastic features and benefits of a high-quality Edea ice skate. 

Figure skaters, unite! Let's dive in to find the Best Edea Ice Skates. 

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1. Edea Chorus Figure Skates

When it’s time to take your skating to the next level, look no further than Edea Chorus.  

It’s a pair perfect for double jumps, complex turns, and other maneuvers for the advanced figure skater. 

The Chorus has a simple design and is known for its lightweight construction and ease of break-in, making it an excellent choice for skaters new to the Edea brand. 

Edea Chorus Figure Skate Features: 

• Ideal construction and design, with a stiff boot for mid-to-advance figure skating. 
• With ultra-lightweight materials, the chorus is 25%-45% lighter than other boots. 
• In both black and white, it’s customizable with high-tech materials that ensure the boots keep their shape over time.  
• Edea Chorus has a rigid footbed with slight vertical compression for increased stability, balance, and control. 
• Footbed and bottom cover resist moisture and securely hold Edea blade screws. 

At $485, it’s one of the more cost-effective models available. Pick up one at Amazon. 

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2. Edea Piano Ice Skates

Look at the feet of high-level skaters and you’ll see a smooth, classy boot with a few triangles cut into the sides. It’s probably the Edea Pianos. 

A skate designed for the perfect triple Loop, Lutz, or Axel Jump, the Piano is ideal for force, speed, and precision.  

Edea Piano Figure Skate Features: 

• Contains additional layers of shock absorbent material to landing force, reduce vibration, and protect the ankle and knees. 
• Manufactured with next-generation leather and composite materials for strength, lightness, and durability. 
• The Piano’s heel lock design matches the natural curvature of the foot, for additional stability, while the nylon and fiberglass insoles come with anti-shock capabilities.  
• Piano contains AIR TECH, a perforated lining for breathability and moisture management. 
• A unique design with Italian-made leather and seven openings and crystals to symbolize musical notes.  

The Edea Piano is at the top end of the budget at $995 but takes your performance to the next level.

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3. Edea Wave Ice Skates

For smooth lines on the ice and on your boot, consider the Edea Wave.  

A wonderful boot where there’s more than meets the eye, the Edea Wave is great for intermediate focusing on single jumps. 

The Italian-made material creates a cost-effective, yet stylish and durable option for kids and adults alike. 

Edea Wave Figure Skate Features: 

• The supportive, stiffer construction is ideal for support and control on the ice. Great for less experienced skaters moving into Edea. 
• Lightweight materials ensure you still have speed and mobility without losing support. 
• The fiberglass and nylon insole at a reduced thickness optimizes the center of gravity while providing more power, stability, and control. The curved heel provides added weight distribution for an advanced connection with the ice.  
• High-tech waterproof soles reduce moisture, perfect for long skating sessions. 
• The 3D wave pattern creates a unique look and feel, while the Techno Micro materials promote the strength and softness of leather while still being water resistant. 

At $265, the Edea Wave is affordable and one of the most visually appealing ice skates on the market.  

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4. Edea Overture Ice Skates

With lightness and simplicity in mind, the Edea Overture is a handmade boot with the beginner in mind.

Complete your favorite single jumps while maintaining your balance and support. 

With smooth Italian-made leather and other innovative materials, the Overture looks classy without breaking the bank. 

Edea Overture Figure Skate Features: 

• Great for skaters who want to develop their skills, the boot is designed with lightness in mind. Experience minimal problems completing jumps and spins. 
• An anatomically designed boot with high-density foam and ankle padding for support. 
• A stiffness rating of 55 provides the right balance of flexibility and support for beginners learning simple jumps and spins.  
• With a leather upper and waterproof sole, the Overture withstands the rigors of skating but may show wear and tear sooner than more expensive options.  
• The unique design shortens break-in time, while precision lacing ensures optimal tightening and long-term support.  

At $365, the high-quality boot still leaves space in the budget for a decent pair of blades. 

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5. Edea Concerto Ice Skates

Ready to take your Freestyle, Pairs, or Dance performance to its limits? Then you need the Edea Concerto. 

A boot with superior strength and support, it’s not for the faint of heart but for advanced skaters who need something to stand up to the rigors of competition.  

Edea Overture Figure Skate Features: 

• Designed with extra stiffness and support. Ideal for skaters moving into the triple and quadruple jump range. 
• High-density memory foam padding, ensuring a snug fit that adapts to the skater's foot. 
• The leather upper and durable sole are designed to withstand 20-25 hours of weekly training, taking multiple higher jumps per session without breaking down. A dual sole for minimizing shock and vibration.  
• Orthopedic foam padding ensures maximum comfort, especially for skaters transitioning from other brands to Edea. 

At $785, it’s an excellent price for a competition-grade boot.

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6. Edea Ice Fly Ice Skates

 When you’re ready to fly on the ice, look at the Edea Ice Fly skates.  

Another advanced skate, the Ice Fly helps skaters who focus on Freestyle or Pairs and want maximum support and performance.   

Edea Overture Figure Skate Features: 

• Available in black and white, the Ice Fly combines Italian-grade leather in handmade leather and mesh upper and high-density memory foam. 
• Ideal for triple and quad jumps, the lightweight design allows effortless performance while still providing maximum stiffness for support. 
• Thermoformable shell can be custom-shaped to meet the individual needs of skaters. 
• The inner memory foam also provides maximum comfort, making it one of the more comfortable Edea models yet. 

At $885, the Ice Fly is an excellent option for high-performing figure skaters in practice and competition. 

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How Do You Break In Edea Skates? 

High-end skates like Edea need some time to mold to your foot and feel comfortable for hours on the ice. 

New Edea skates can feel firm, so breaking in involves a gradual approach so your feet can adjust to the new shape of the boot.  

Start with wearing your boots for 15-20 minute periods. 

Gradually increase the duration until your feed adjusts, as long periods out of the box can lead to injury.  

Wear thick socks when sizing your boot helps and when you’re breaking them in, socks provide additional comfort.  

Breaking in skates also involves lacing your skates.

Aim for a snug fit without excessive tightness, especially around the ankle.  

It can take a couple of weeks until the break-in process is complete, so be patient.  

Conclusion

Without a doubt, Edea ice skates are some of the most expensive on the market.  

Yet, they are unmatched in terms of material quality and performance. 

For years, Edea has leveraged the technology and innovation of designers, professional skaters, and engineers to come up with lightweight construction, biomechanical performance, comfort, and performance. 

Edea’s unique boot shapes provide a reduced break-in period, better weight distribution, and precise ankle and foot alignment. 

It’s not an ideal entry-level skate for figure skating as Edea’s are optimized for high-level training or competitive skating.  

So, if you’re ready to take your skating to the next level or you’re preparing for your first tournament, it’s time to grab a pair of Edea.  

You can also customize your boot with multiple options that align with your fit and performance characteristics.  

As a synthetic ice provider, we recommend Edea boots and blades for all surfaces. 

It’s an investment that provides you with optimal comfort and fantastic performance for years to come.   

 

 

 

Nothing feels better than lacing up the perfect pair of hockey skates that take your game to the next level. 

When it comes to choosing your skates, you have a few options, but Bauer hockey skates stand head and shoulders above the rest.  

The best players in the world depend on Bauer, with over 68% of active NHL players using the brand.  

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BREAK-IN YOUR NEW BAUER HOCKEY SKATES AT HOME WITH POLYGLIDE SYNTHETIC ICE

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Pros will opt for higher end options like the Vapor Hyperlite 2 or the Supreme Shadow.  

But that does not mean you can’t experience the power of Bauer if those are out of your price range. 

Whether you’re new to the sport, a seasoned athlete, or looking to gift someone a pair, these are the best Bauer hockey skates under $600:  

 1. Bauer Supreme M4 Intermediate

New and experienced hockey players alike can unlock the power of the Bauer Supreme M4 Intermediate.

Take your competitive spirit to the next level with innovative new upgrades such as the Flex Composite material for additional stiffness and the Digi Comp outsole for more rigidity. 

Enjoy a more lightweight boot that’s still durable. 

The Tuuk Lightspeed holder allow quick swapping of the included LS+ blade, a higher cut blade for better sharpening and profiling.  

Enjoy additional padding around the ankles to reduce irritation and a stronger tendon guard for long-term protection.

A thick, pro-style tongue protects the shin while providing extra padding.  

The M4 Intermediate has Bauer’s new fit system, allowing increased customization for any profile foot.

The thermoformable material allows additional customization of inner and outer material.  

An ideal skate for power players, you get a lightweight boot made with superior materials.  

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2. Bauer S21 Vapor 3X Intermediate Ice Skates

When it’s time to upgrade your skates and performance, the Bauer Vapor 3X may be the one for you. 

While there are newer models in circulation, the 3X is still well loved due to its many features. 

Available in senior and intermediate sizes, you can get them in a multitude of volumes and profiles.  

The 10’ profile LS + blade has a pro-style height for better sharpening life, improved edges, and much more.  

Like many of the boots on this list, the Tuuk Lightspeed holder keeps the blades secure for long training sessions or competitive games.

Its quick release mechanism allows for easy maintenance and exchange of your blades. 

You’ll notice a strong boot but light material, thanks to the 3D Flex-Comp construction.

The additional stiffness makes it comparable to a higher priced Bauer skates.

The inside liner has a rougher grip to lock in the feet while wicking away moisture.  

With additional Comfort Edge wrap padding around the ankles and tendon guard, you can practice for hours with minimal soreness.  

The thermoformable material means you can take it to your local skate shop for additional baking and customizing.  

A resigned toe cap provides maximum protection and a more direct feel without losing comfort, while the laces and tongue connect for added support.  

 

 

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3. Bauer Vapor X4

An upgrade of the well-known Vapor X3, the Vapor X4 is always ready for action.  

This 2023 model falls under Bauer’s ‘quick and agile’ line that blends stiffness in the upper boot with a more flexible lower boot.  

Research has found this style results in far performance such as quick turns and more powerful strides.

You can choose the appropriate fit based on your preferences and factors such as volume. 

Compared to the previous generation, you get an upgrade LS Pulse SS runner with higher quality speed and more durability.

It’s still held in place with a Tuuk Lightspeed holder.  

The boot is made of high-quality curve composite, an upgrade from the X3 model. It’s lighter with added support for more responsiveness.

A comfortable tongue with comfort padding around the ankle and tendon guard protects the ankle from irritation. 

Inside the boot is a sublimated liner with memory foam provides extra padding without retaining excess moisture.  

This is a high-performance boot, providing effective upgrades from the previous model while not quite beating out the highest-end options available from Bauer.  

 

  

 

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4. Bauer Supreme S22 M4 Senior

Hockey players look for skates that have the right balance of stiffness, responsiveness, and power.

The Bauer Supreme M4 Senior check many of these boxes.  

The Supreme line is great for power skaters with big strides and effective displacement of energy a top priority.  

The boot now has a more durable and flexible curve composite quarter package with thermoformable properties.  

A large tongue, tendon guard, and ankle support combine to protect the upper foot without compromising performance.  

These boots also have the improved LS Pulse SS runner (compared to the LS+) which promises better steel, durability, and an improved Comfort edge combined with the Tuuk Lightspeed Edge holder for changing out runners on demand.  

A more rounded, asymmetrical toe cap improves fit with a more efficient design and control.  

Aero-foam ankle padding takes comfort even further, reducing wear and tear on the feet and ankles.  

As a mid-level Supreme option, you get a versatile skate that is ideal for power skaters. 

5. Bauer X Intermediate

Recreational hockey players and beginners, unite! 

Here’s a skate that provides you the support and performance you need at a competitive cost. 

The value you’ll get from the Bauer X Intermediate is unmatched.  

As a perfect entry point for hockey players, the X Intermediate blends performance and comfort.  

The Digi-Comp quarter offers more flexibility, so you can work on your crossovers or edgework while minimizing injury.  

While not as superior as some of the other quarters on this list, the X series still matches up to pro versions while supporting beginners and developers. 

The boot is thermoformable with a sublimated microfiber lining, allowing you to customize your skate, while the LS Pro II holder and steel combo provides enough durability for the recreational player.  

6. Bauer Supreme Ultrasonic

The list of Bauer Hockey Skates must have the Supreme Ultrasonic.  

The customizable boot is uniquely crafted to meet the demands of high performance or professional players.  

The foundation of these skates lies in their 3D durable Carbon Curv composite quarter package, for a lighter, more formable boot. 

A Tuuk Lightspeed holder allows secure holding of the runner while allowing you to swap out runners with the quick release system.  

The Supreme Ultrasonic comes with the Pulse TI, a runner that surpasses the LS+ and other options on this list. Improved stainless steel and titanium coating improves performance, more bite, a taller profile, and durability. 

There’s also more contact with the ice without compromising speed. 

A fully injected reflex tendon guard provides even more protection than previous models.  

A multitude of innovative features make this a must have for pros or players looking to upgrade their skates.  

7. Bauer Supreme M5 Pro

Rounding off the list is the Supreme M5 Pro, an ideal boot for intermediate to professional hockey players.  

All Supreme models follow a 3 tier Performance Fit System designed for Low Profile, Medium Profile, and High-Volume feet.

These innovations provide a more comfortable fit and improved speed and performance.  

The boot consists of the 3D Carbon Curve Composite, a single piece design that aims to give you optimal performance in each stride.  

An extra-large tongue, reinforced tendon guard, comfort edge, and padded interior provides superior protection and comfort.  

This has an upgrade to the asymmetrical toe cap, with a slightly wider space that does not compromise on performance.  

The boot comes with the Tuuk Lightspeed holder and the powerful Pulse SS runner.

Bauer also allows customers to choose their runners for an additional cost.  

The lock fit liner and foot bed wicks away moisture while keeping your foot in place to optimize energy transfer.  

Overall, this boot still holds up as a high-performance option, despite more expensive versions like the M50 on the market.  

These are some of the best Bauer hockey skates under $500, but there are other factors to consider. 

Beginners, intermediate, and advanced players have varying needs in terms of support, flexibility, and performance features. 

Forwards, defensemen, and goalies have distinct requirements based on their playing style and movement patterns. 

For instance, forwards prefer lighter skates with better flexibility which helps with speed and quicker turns.  

Physical players like defensemen and goalies may prefer stiffer boots for ankle support.  

You should also think about your skill level. 

Are you a beginner?

Focus on high ankle support 

More of a pro?

Stiffer boots and custom options may be more up your alley.  

Always make sure your skates are 1-1.5 sizes smaller than your actual shoe size. 

This ensures ideal comfort, with your toes barely touching the front of the toe cap.  

Based on your age, position on the ice, or experience level, your preferences will change. 

And that’s what makes these affordable Bauer hockey skates fantastic. 

 

 

Conclusion

Without a doubt, Bauer has some of the best quality and features you can find in a pair of hockey skates. 

Many of the more recent Supreme and Vapor models exceed $500. 

But you can get excellent performance and durability for less than $500 on older models. 

Take a look at the key features mentioned here. 

Consider your skill level and position. 

A well-informed choice can be a game-changer for your performance in training or your most important game.  

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the game, use Bauer to give you the speed and control needed for an amazing experience. 

 

 

So, you’ve picked up your first pair of ice skates. 

Or you want to pass on the near and dear tradition of ice skating to your kids. 

Lacing up those skates for the first time and hitting the ice is scary yet exhilarating. 

Ice skating for beginners can be challenging, and you’ll need a lot of practice before you can start skating confidently.  

The biggest hurdle is getting consistent access to an ice rink, which can be time-consuming and expensive. 

Now, there’s a solution.  

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LEARN TO SKATE (AND FALL) AT HOME WITH NO CROWDS WITH POLYGLIDE SYNTHETIC ICE

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With synthetic ice tiles, you can create your own rink in your backyard, garage, spare room, or driveway.  

That’s hours of fun for you or your kids and a great way to get accustomed to skating and learning the basics.  

While home ice skating for beginners solves many problems, mastering moves through feedback and coaching remains a challenge. 

You can do just that with home video training, using simple recording tools to become your own analyst or work with a potential coach.  

Why Home Video Training is Your Secret Weapon 

As your skating competence grows, you’ll be eager to learn different stops, turns, spins, and even jumps.  

Unless you have a coach who can come to your home rink, you’ll need a way to review your progress, track your mistakes, and adjust as needed.

Home video training may be the solution. 

You can get the most out of your beginner skating journey by setting up a camera to record your progress. 

You can then review your content, compare it to a coach online, or pass it to your skating coach for feedback.  

Home video training is yet another way to get the most out of your synthetic ice rink.   

You can save time, work on specific moves, correct bad habits, or improve posture. 

For those who want to be entirely self-taught, recording your progress is one of the best ways to improve your skills and stay on track.  

If you need some tips to get the most out of your home video training, check out the following:  

1. Choose the Right Equipment 

Home video training is not the complex recording sessions that are now common in professional sports.  

You’re making short, simple videos using inexpensive tools or equipment that’s already at your disposal.  

For starters, your iPhone camera and a tripod or extendable selfie stick are enough to get started. Set it up next to the rink with a clear view of the skater.  

Shoot in 1080p or 4K resolution, but note that long videos can impact the phone’s storage capacity. 

Lighting is equally essential so you can get a clear picture of the skates and mechanics to correct any mistakes. 

If the rink is outdoors, use natural light in the early morning or afternoon. 

A bright overhead light could help if the rink is indoors, but you may want additional lighting to capture the details.  

A ring light or inexpensive video light kit should do the job. 

You should also consider investing in additional storage for your phone to record and categorize multiple videos.  

2. Focus on One Skill at a Time 

Beginners will often have specific challenges on the ice. 

As you improve and add new skills, these obstacles will only compound. 

To avoid being overwhelmed, focus on recording and improving one skill at a time. 

If you’re having problems executing a specific turn, for instance, record yourself executing the turn multiple times. 

Review or share the footage with a coach, then work on the fundamentals that are causing the issue.  

When you feel you’ve got a hang of things, move on to recording the next skill.  

Skill stacking is the fastest way to improve, especially if you’re going at it on your own.  

 

3. Consider Multiple Angles and Perspectives 

Don’t just focus on a specific perspective or angle.  

You may miss something you’re not doing because you can’t see the front or side of your skates.  

For instance, you’re working on a jump and need to take off from an outside edge. 

For the untrained eye, it may look like you’re jumping from the correct edge from one angle.  

However, another perspective may say otherwise.  

Record your training session from one perspective, then move the camera behind or to the side. 

Repeat and record the moves.  

Watch both perspectives to help you find and fix any issues. 

 

4. Break Down Complex Moves 

Home video training is ideal for taking your skating to the next level.  

If you’re trying to learn and perfect a specific move, speak to a coach or watch a video describing the move. 

Next, break the move down into two or sub-moves.  

Finally, practice and record each sub-move before putting it all together. 

Watch each move closely for mistakes or collaborate with a coach to break down the film. 

 

5. One Video is Not Enough 

Ice skating for beginners can be difficult at first, but it is lots of fun. 

However, it’s easy to develop bad habits based on our human nature, such as favoring one foot over the other.  

One video is insufficient to pick up on poor technique or bad habits. 

You’ll likely need to record multiple videos in one session and several videos over a week or month. 

Comparing these videos will help you become a better skater and make your home video training more effective.  

 

6. Analyzing Your Work 

While you’re not a pro (yet), there are still ways you can analyze your skating to get the most out of your beginner status.  

You’ll simply be shining a magnifying glass on your performance.  

Go through your video without stopping to develop a general eye for your skills and technique. 

How’s your posture? 

What’s your balance like? 

Are your ankles rolling inward? 

What’s the angle of your toe pick? 

What does your take-off and landing look like? 

You can use video to examine these small details and then work on correcting them, either by yourself or with a coach.  

7. Find Your Feedback Tribe 

Don’t have a coach? 

No problem. 

Join a community or group that enjoys skating and can provide constructive feedback on your posture and skill level.  

Share your video in Facebook groups or Subreddits asking for recommendations. 

You can also share it on social media – but do so at your own risk. 

Once you find your tribe, share constant progress and also provide feedback to others who are just starting out and are behind you and eager to get their feet wet.   

Conclusion 

Home video training is a great way to get immediate feedback on your ice skating on your home rink.  

There are different types of ice rinks you can construct at home under the right conditions. 

However, synthetic ice rinks are preferred due to their versatility, durability, and cost.

If you’re a beginner ice skater choosing to learn at home, you’ll need as much feedback and analysis as possible. 

Home video training is a simple yet effective way to improve, share content with coaches, and get the most out of your rink. 

Make sure to break down the recordings into multiple shots and angles so you can work on the fine details and track your improvement. 

With ice skating for beginners, synthetic ice rinks and video training are a match made in heaven.  

 

Have you ever been to a gym, dance studio, or indoor court and noticed the floors covered with an interesting material? 

What you’re seeing is sports flooring, which has a dual purpose.

It protects the floor beneath from damage while being an ideal surface for the sport of choice. 

Typical examples include the vinyl or wood flooring you see on basketball courts, or the PVC flooring for volleyball, handball, and everything in between. 

Sports flooring options aren’t limited to summer activities.

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POLYGLIDE ICE: THE ULTIMATE SPORT FLOORING SOLUTION TO YEAR-ROUND SKATING

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Ice sports like figure skating or hockey can benefit too. 

Synthetic ice sports flooring unlocks new possibilities for sports complex owners, entertainment spaces, and skating enthusiasts alike.  

A New Way to Ice Skate This Winter

You can’t ice skate on any surface. 

The sharp blades attached to ice skates cut through the ice and moisture, allowing skaters to glide along with ease.

That’s why ice skating primarily occurs on outdoor rinks or refrigerated rinks. 

Synthetic ice brings a third, innovative option for ice skating this winter.

It’s an interlocking flooring made of a special infused polyethylene plastic.

The white, glossy finish imitates the look of a standard indoor ice rink. 

This material is infused with a liquid agent (or you may need to apply it yourself), allowing ice skate blades to move smoothly across the surface. 

Synthetic ice comes in different sizes and thicknesses (tiles vs. panels) which plays a role in performance and sustainability. 

Naturally, ice skating increases significantly during the winter, but finding ice rinks can be a challenge.

Synthetic ice helps to meet this demand.

Whether you’re in charge of a commercial space or want to skate at home.

 

Advantages of Synthetic Ice for Sports Flooring

Choosing synthetic ice as a form of sports flooring sounds like you’re boxing yourself into ice sports only, but it’s far from the truth. 

Synthetic ice tiles are versatile and capable of facilitating figure skating, ice hockey, and recreational skating.

But it’s also usable throughout the year for rollerskating, sock skating, volleyball, fitness training, community events, and much more. 

The tiles allow you to adjust the size and shape of the rink for efficient use of your available space. 

Synthetic ice rinks make winter sports more accessible.

Setting up a conventional ice rink can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

A synthetic ice rink is significantly cheaper. 

A commercial space can bring an immediate return on investment, while starter kits can be used at home for practice or fun with your family. 

As there are new machines, rods, water, or coolant, maintenance is a breeze.

The synthetic ice tiles are made of a durable material usable on both sides.

It’s a safe, adaptable option lasting over 10 years. 

Performance Factors with Sports Flooring

Worried about skating on a synthetic surface?

That’s understandable, but synthetic ice works on similar principles to natural ice.

The heat generated by the blades as they slide over the surface releases the lubricants, mimicking the same concept over natural ice.

Therefore, you get a similar experience to natural ice. 

In fact, all the same ice skating maneuvers that can be performed on natural ice can also be achieved on an artficial ice surface.

High quality panels have a lower coefficient of friction, with technology creating a glide factor of at least 90% comparable to natural ice. 

As you add liquid surface enhancements and continue to use the surface, synthetic ice gets better, conducive to skating with time while minimizing damage to your skates. 

Comparing Alternatives to Synthetic Ice

It’s fun to skate on a natural ice surface, but if you’re looking for alternatives synthetic ice is not the only sports flooring option. 

Dryland flooring is another popular option for roller or inline skating.

This is a cost-effective alternative used for hockey training, ice sports, and other recreational activities. 

Dryland flooring is made of a lower-quality plastic or rubber.

These tiles are more suited for practice that does not involve ice skates.

Rubber mats are another versatile sports flooring option.

Indoor facilities and commercial spaces prefer these mats for the ease of installation and durability.

They are also low-cost and versatile, appropriate for multiple exercises indoors and outdoors. 

At the same time, this is not a surface for ice skating.

If you want to lace up your ice skates and give it a go, prepare to be disappointed. 

FEATURE	SYNTHETIC ICE	DRYLAND FLOORING	RUBBER MATS
Realistic Skating Feel	Yes	Limited	No
Indoor/Outdoor Use	Yes	Yes	Yes
Maintenance	Low	Moderate	Low
Cost	Moderate	Low	Moderate

Installing Your Synthetic Ice

Ease of installation makes this sports flooring option convenient for commercial and personal use. 

The technology behind synthetic ice has made it available for home and commercial use. 

The interlocking mechanisms at the edges make it connect seamlessly.

Enlisting 1-2 capable individuals, a commercial synthetic ice rink can take a few hours to install.

Make sure to measure your space so you can purchase the appropriate number of tiles, which minimizes cost. 

Smaller, at-home rinks can be set up within 30-45 minutes depending on the side and location. 

Once you measure the surface and place a subfloor, you can place and connect your tiles, using a rubber mallet to secure the panels and ensure a smooth finish.

Finish your rink with dasher boards, walls, or other functional additions. 

Home rinks with tiles can be set up without help.

Panels can be heavier, so grab some help.

Place them on a flat surface, connect the edges, and start skating! 

A Beautiful Winter Skating with Synthetic Ice

Ice skating during the winter adds that feeling of nostalgia.

For some, it’s necessary to improve their skills, compete in ice sports, or continue a beloved hobby.

Thanks to synthetic ice, ice skating is becoming more accessible.

It’s a multi-use sports flooring option you can use even when the ice melts. 

Continue with ice skating or switch to another sport without affecting the surface’s integrity. 

They’re an effective alternative to dryland flooring, PVC, rubber, or plastic. 

As it’s growing in popularity, you can find synthetic ice flooring in a host of commercial spaces, sports complexes, and rinks.

Or you can create your own slice of skating heaven at home.

For your ice skating needs - large or small - let our team and our unique, patented synthetic ice transform your skating experience. 

Conclusion

The pursuit of year-round ice skating has led to significant advancements in sports flooring options, catering to enthusiasts and athletes alike who seek to enjoy their favorite activity regardless of the season.

From synthetic ice panels to refrigerated ice rinks, the range of available products ensures that there is a solution for every need and budget.

Synthetic ice, with its low maintenance and easy installation, stands out as a particularly attractive option for both home use and commercial training facilities.

It offers a near-authentic skating experience that is both accessible and environmentally friendly.

For those considering a more traditional approach, refrigerated ice rinks, although more costly and complex to maintain, provide the unparalleled feel of real ice.

Each option presents its own set of benefits, tailored to different settings and usage frequencies.

By carefully considering factors such as cost, space, and personal or commercial needs, enthusiasts can select the best sports flooring to keep the ice skating fun going all year long.

With these innovative solutions, ice skating is no longer confined to winter months but is a feasible and enjoyable activity for any season.

 

 

When Tom Brady joined Tampa, he held ‘secret’ training sessions with his future wide receivers weeks before training camp. 

Why?

Because he understood that team sports thrive on chemistry, synergy, and having a competitive advantage over opponents. 

For ice sports like hockey, these qualities apply. 

The more time you can gel, the bigger your chances of success.

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PRACTICING ICE HOCKEY INDOORS ALL YEAR LONG WITH POLYGLIDE SYNTHETIC ICE

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Team training can be challenging, especially with limited access to facilities like ice rinks. 

If you’re part of a team that participates in ice sports, synthetic ice opens new doors for everyone.

Indoor sports with synthetic ice are growing in popularity, but surfaces such as these can be leveraged for team training during all seasons. 

Popular Indoor Sports with Synthetic Ice

Synthetic ice is not new. Similar ice rinks have been around since the 1960s.

What has changed is the technology, versatility, and performance. 

Simply put, a synthetic ice rink is a series of tiles or panels that connect to form an ice skating surface. 

The best synthetic ice is a 1-piece panel with interlocking dovetail edges, allowing them to connect securely without disrupting performance (no pins or dowels).

Each tile is a special polyethylene designed to imitate the look and function of a natural ice rink. 

This material is infused with special slip agents to give it the slickness required for real ice skating without compromising durability.

Synthetic ice is great for popular ice sports like figure skating and hockey but can be used in other scenarios.

Curling, ice dancing, and niche sports like ringette are other examples.

Flat, smooth surfaces like synthetic ice can even facilitate non-ice sports.

The possibilities are endless. 

Pros and Cons of Synthetic Ice Rinks

Synthetic ice rinks are growing in popularity for their versatility and adaptability.

As you can determine how many tiles you need, create large and small rinks relative to your space. 

It’s suitable for various training activities in hockey, such as passing, shooting, and skating skills, and figure skating like spins, jumps, and choreography. 

As rinks are easy to install, you can move or remove them, creating a multi-purpose space.

The polyethylene composition makes synthetic ice durable, lasting 10 or more years. 

This durability makes outdoor and indoor sports with synthetic ice possible in all seasons. 

Some types of synthetic ice, perform better with extended use.

A synthetic ice rink is the most cost-effective way to set up an indoor rink that performs similarly to a refrigerated ice rink. 

Synthetic ice has some drawbacks.

While cost-effective compared to a refrigerated ice rink, you’ll still need an upfront investment for a large rink.

You’ll also need to have a liquid slip surface agent on standby to avoid poor-performing tiles. 

There is also a noticeable difference in friction compared to natural ice.

However, high-quality synthetic ice improves the coefficient of friction to less than 10%. 

At the same time, that additional friction can translate into stronger, faster skating on natural ice. 

Your Ideal Indoor Settings

Ice sports teams can set up synthetic ice in commercial, residential, or mobile settings:

1. Commercial spaces like team training facilities, gyms, community centers, and sports complexes are some of the best locations for synthetic ice. It’s the most cost-effective space for competition-sized synthetic ice. The spaces are also available throughout the year.
2. Residential spaces like large basements, garages, or backyards can facilitate rinks and group training. For instance, the defensemen or goalies of a hockey team can meet up to work on specific skills. Collegiate ice skating teams can have individual or group training sessions in the off-season. 
3. Synthetic ice also has mobile applications. Slideboards, which are 4-6ft pieces of synthetic ice, provide a low-impact, lower-body conditioning or active recovery. Infused shooting pads or curved training pads allow you to work on ‘ice’ anywhere and at any time. 

Team Training Strategies on Synthetic Ice

How do synthetic ice rinks translate into better training?

You can save time gearing up or traveling to a refrigerated ice rink.

Get the bare essentials to work on skill development.

Focus on individual skills overlooked in team practices like stick handling, long-range shooting, or reflexes.

Figure skating teams can also use synthetic ice for skills development.

Teams also thrive on coordination and synthetic ice provides an excellent opportunity to work on drills that enhance teamwork and strategy. 

For instance, work on specific drills in tight spaces.

Change the shape of the rink so the team can work on drills and strategies based on the length or width of the ice.

When you narrow the playing surface, the team gets more accustomed to running plays or navigating out of tough situations.

Synthetic ice also opens the door for specialized training programs.

Coaches can create plans to help players with specific weaknesses.

These plans can then be executed on synthetic ice in commercial spaces or at home. 

Maintenance and Care for Synthetic Ice

Keeping synthetic ice in top shape gets overlooked, but it plays a major role in long-term performance and surface quality. 

Synthetic ice is easy to clean and maintain.

As skating with blades creates shavings, remove these before every session.

A soft broom or similar cleaning tool can help.

Periodically clean the surface with warm, soapy water, then reapply your slip surface age

To maintain surface quality, perform the basic cleaning of shavings, dust, and debris daily and the deeper cleaning 1-2 times weekly depending on use.

Cover or store away small tiles or panels when not in use, ensuring that the panels are completely dry before storing to prevent mold or warping. 

Check your tiles occasionally for damage, especially if you feel like your skating quality has declined. Team training on synthetic ice can impact durability.

With the right maintenance, synthetic ice will hold up to the demands of all skaters. 

Improve Team Performance with Synthetic Ice

Synthetic ice rinks provide a significant advantage for teams trying to improve their skills, strengths, and strategies. 

From a team perspective, large synthetic ice rinks provide a durable indoor and outdoor training surface.

Synthetic ice is also versatile, so individuals can get tiles or panels of their own to continue conditioning at home. 

You get the maximum benefit indoors with the rinks for multiple indoor sports. 

If you’re a coach, sports complex owner, or athlete trying to improve their game, consider our Pro Glide Panels for a durable, double-sided surface that gives you optimal skating performance for years. 

Conclusion

As we've explored, synthetic ice presents an innovative and highly effective solution for ice hockey team training, especially in indoor settings.

This versatile material not only mimics the feel and glide of real ice but also offers year-round accessibility, bypassing the limitations of traditional ice rinks.

Teams can significantly enhance their training sessions, focusing on skill development, strategy implementation, and consistent practice, all within the convenience of their own facilities.

The durability and low maintenance of synthetic ice ensure that it remains cost-effective over time, making it an excellent long-term investment for sports organizations at all levels.

Furthermore, the ability to install synthetic ice in virtually any space opens up new opportunities for teams in regions where ice time is scarce or expensive.

By integrating synthetic ice into their training regimen, teams can expect marked improvements in players' skating skills, game tactics, and overall fitness.

It is clear that synthetic ice is not just a feasible alternative but a strategic asset for indoor sports facilities looking to elevate their hockey programs.

For teams aiming to gain a competitive edge while maximizing training efficiency, synthetic ice is undoubtedly one of the best tools available in today’s sports landscape.