Info & Tips

Ice skating is a fun and accessible sport that can keep your child engaged and active while helping them to develop coordination, balance, and strength.

To get started, there's no need to "break the bank" in purchasing a child's first pair of skates to teach them to ice skate at the rink.

It is important that the skates are built for comfort and youngsters may also opt for a little "style" to spark their interest ;-)

To help you find the perfect pair of ice skates for any toddler, here's a list of the 10 best toddler ice skates under $100.

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Our Top Picks

Best Beginner Toddler Skates
Softmax - Adjustable Ice Skates

Top Toddler Ice Skates
Lake Placid Monarch - Adjustable Ice Skates

 Here Are Our Picks For The 10 Best Toddler Skates Under $100 

These are the ideal skates for any toddler that's just learning how to ice skate and get the feel of the ice (can be used on any natural or synthetic ice surface).

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Best Beginner Toddler Skates

LAKE PLACID MONARCH - ADJUSTABLE TODDLER SKATES 

The Lake Placid Glacier Ice Skates are a top-of-the-line choice for recreational skaters seeking a combination of comfort, performance, and durability. These skates are equally suitable for indoor and outdoor use, making them a versatile choice for all types of skaters.

The adjustable sizing ensures a perfect fit for growing feet, while the premium lining provides exceptional warmth and comfort for prolonged skating sessions. The stainless steel blade requires minimal maintenance, reducing the need for frequent sharpening and increasing the skates' longevity.

Additional features of the Lake Placid Glacier Ice Skates include:

• A reinforced ankle collar for improved stability and control on the ice.
• A stylish and modern design that appeals to skaters of all ages.
• Available in a range of sizes to suit a variety of skaters, from beginners to more experienced individuals.

Invest in the best with the Lake Placid Glacier Ice Skates, and experience unparalleled skating performance and comfort.

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Best Overall Toddler Ice Skates

SOFTMAX ADJUSTABLE -TODDLER SKATES 

 

 

The Lake Placid Glacier Ice Skates are a top-of-the-line choice for recreational skaters seeking a quality skate.

These skates are versatile, equally suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, making them perfect for all types of skaters.

• A convenient button adjustment system allows for easy resizing and extended use, making them ideal for growing feet.
• The Softmax added woven lining and deluxe comfort padding provide exceptional warmth and comfort, even during long skating sessions.
• Ankle reinforcement enhances control and support, reducing the risk of injury and improving overall skating performance.
• Stainless-steel Softmax blade is highly durable, retaining its sharpness over time and reducing the need for frequent sharpening.

With their combination of comfort, durability, and performance-enhancing features, the Lake Placid Glacier Ice Skates are an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy the thrill of ice skating.

Get your pair today and experience the joy of gliding across the ice with ease and comfort!

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 Xino Sports Adjustable Skate 

These skates are designed to be super cool looking, perfect for boys and girls who want a great time on the ice.

• Excellent ankle support with soft padding, providing a perfect fit for growing feet.
• High-quality, durable stainless steel blade that is already sharpened and has a protective cover for safety.
• Parents will love the user-friendly push-button adjustable system that allows the skates to grow with their child, ensuring years of use.
• Available in Small (J10-J13) and Medium (1-4) sizes, making them perfect for kids of all ages.

Get your child ready for hours of fun on the ice with the Xino SPorts Adjustable Skates!

With a perfect fit, durable blade, and easy adjustability, your child will be skating like a pro in no time!

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 Hedstrom Adjustable Ice Skates

These Spidey and Friends skates can be quickly adjusted to fit youth shoe sizes 8 to 11 without the need for tools, ensuring that they can be used for multiple years as the child grows.

The padded liner provides instant comfort, eliminating the need for a break-in period.

Additionally, the stainless steel blades require minimal maintenance and deliver consistent performance.

• The easy-to-push, tool-free adjustment system allows for quick resizing, making them ideal for growing feet.
• The padded liner ensures instant comfort, keeping feet and toes warm during skating sessions.
• Stainless steel blades hold their edge longer, preventing rusting and reducing the need for frequent maintenance.

With Hedstrom's Adjustable Ice Skates, kids can enjoy the fun and excitement of ice skating without the hassle of rentals.

The skates are easy to adjust, instantly comfortable, and built to last.

Get your child a pair today and watch them skate with confidence and ease!

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 Bladerunner Kids Ice Skates

 Looking for a great recreational ice skate for your child?

 Look no further than these adjustable sizing system, comfortable, convenient, and stylish ice skates.

Designed for kids of all skating abilities, our skates offer the perfect balance of performance and versatility.

• Our adjustable 4 size fit system is easy to use, thanks to a push-button mechanism that allows the skates to grow with your child's feet.
• Lightweight Micro structure provides the support and stability your child needs to glide around the rink or pond with ease.
• A comfortable liner and precise fit, featuring a secure buckle, strap & lace closure system, ensures that feet stay warm, comfy, and cozy even during longer skating sessions.
• Stainless steel blades hold their edge longer, prevent rusting, and deliver consistent performance with minimal maintenance. Be sure to sharpen the blades before the first use for optimal performance.

These recreational ice skates are perfect for kids who love to skate, no matter their level of experience.

With a comfortable fit, reliable performance, and easy-to-use sizing system, these skates will keep your child happy and active all winter long.

Order now and watch your child's skating skills soar!

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 American Athletic Shoe - Cougar Skates

 Introducing the perfect ice skates for young adventurers!

The Cougar ice skates are designed with comfort and convenience in mind, making them the ideal choice for children who love skating.

Product Description:

• Easily Adjustable: With a simple sizing chart picture, the Cougar ice skates can be adjusted to fit sizes 6-9 Youth. No need for tools, simply adjust the skate to the right size and you're ready to go!

• Convenient Liner: Removable liner is perfect for drying wet skates after a fun day on the ice. Simply remove the liner, let it dry, and your skates will be ready for the next adventure.

• Durable Blades: The stainless steel hockey skate blades are built to withstand even the toughest of conditions and will keep your child stable and secure on the ice.

If your looking for an adjustable toddler skate that's affordable and durable, the Cougar by American Atheltic Shoe is a great choice!

 

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 5th Element Stealth Jr. Hockey Adjustable

If you're looking for a pair of ice skates that can keep up with your growing child, the 5th Element is a great choice!

These Adjustable ice skates are a perfect solution for young children and kids who want skates that can adapt to their growing feet. These skates are designed with multiple sizes of adjustability, allowing them to last for multiple seasons and ensuring your child always has the correct size.

Features:

• Versatile Sizing: Whether you're looking for toddler ice skates or kids' ice skates, our adjustable skates have you covered. With the toddler skates adjustable from size 12 to size 3, and the kids' sizes adjustable from sizes 4-7, you can find the perfect fit for your child's feet. This ensures maximum support, improved skating, and a comfortable fit throughout your child's growth.

• True-to-Size Fit - These ice skates fit true to your shoe size, with enough room around the toes but snug in the heel and midfoot for maximum support. The padded support cradles your child’s foot for added comfort.

• Easy to Slip On and Strap Up - The soft boot construction and strap-on design make these skates easy for kids and toddlers to put on and take off. The padding and comfort ensure that feet stay secure and comfortable during skating.

• Moisture-Resistant Liner - The moisture-resistant liner allows for added durability and protects the liners during storage, ensuring fresh and comfortable skates every time.

These ice skates are perfect for indoor rink skating or outdoor pond hockey ice skating.

Get your child started with the 5th Element Stealth Jr. Adjustable Ice Skates today!

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Jackson Ultima Softec Adjustable Skates 

 Introducing the Softec Adjustable Skate by Jackson Skates.

The perfect choice for anyone looking for comfort, warmth, and durability in their ice skates.

These skates are not only engineered to feel incredible, but they look incredible too.

As the industry leader in sport and figure style recreational skates for men, women, and children, you can trust that the Softec

Product Description:

• Adjustable Sizing: Skates can be easily adjusted to accommodate growing feet, so you don't have to worry about buying a new pair every year.
• Soft Boot with External Skeletal Structure: The soft boot provides maximum comfort while the external skeletal structure provides the necessary support you need for those jumps and turns.
• Factory Sharpened Recreational Blade: The recreational blade attached to our skates comes factory sharpened, so you can start skating right away.
• Medium Size: Designed to fit a wide range of foot sizes, from Children's Size 2 to Women's Size 6.

Don't settle for uncomfortable, poorly made ice skates.

Invest in the Softec Skate Program and experience the perfect combination of comfort, durability, and style. 

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 Lake Placid Lucy Girl's Adjustable

These skates are not only adorable, but they are also functional and designed with your child's comfort in mind.

With a durable stainless steel blade, a synthetic boot that offers stability, and a warm woven soft touch liner, these skates are the perfect choice for any young girl who wants to look and feel great on the ice.

Here are 4 reasons why you'll "love the Lucy" Ice Skate:

• Durable Stainless Steel Blade: The stainless steel blade is not only durable but requires little maintenance, so your child can spend more time on the ice and less time worrying about sharpening her skates.
• Warm Woven Soft Touch Liner: The warm woven soft touch liner keeps your child's feet warm and comfortable, so she can skate for hours without any discomfort.
• EZ Push Adjustable Sizing: The EZ Push adjustable sizing feature allows you to adjust the size of the skates with the push of a button, so you don't have to worry about buying a new pair every year as your child's feet grow.
• Lace-Up Closure and Velcro Buckle: The lace-up closure and Velcro buckle provide a custom fit, ensuring that your child's feet are snug and secure in the skates.

The Lucy Ice Skate for girls is the perfect combination of style, comfort, and functionality.

With a soft NU Buck upper, warm woven soft touch liner, lace-up closure and Velcro buckle, and a chrome-plated steel blade, these skates are the perfect choice for any young girl who wants to look great and skate with confidence. 

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 Boys American Chillin Double Runner

 Introducing the Boys American Double Runner skates - the perfect choice for young children who are just starting out on the ice.

These skates have been a favorite among parents since the 1960's, and for good reason!

With double blades for better balance, durable vinyl uppers, and water-resistant composition soles, these skates are the perfect combination of comfort and function.

Product Description:

• Double Blades for Better Balance: The purposely wider-apart double blades provide young skaters with better balance, making it easier for them to stay on their feet and enjoy their time on the ice.
• Durable Vinyl Uppers: The durable vinyl uppers provide protection and support for your child's feet, while also ensuring that the skates will last for many skating sessions to come.
• Water-Resistant Composition Soles: The water-resistant composition soles provide excellent traction on the ice, so your child can skate with confidence.
• True-to-Shoe Sizing: With true-to-shoe sizing, it's easy to find the perfect fit for your child's feet.

Featured in a number of parent magazines, the Boys American Double Runner skates are a parent favorite for good reason.

These skates provide young children with the perfect combination of comfort, balance, and durability, making them the perfect choice for any child who is just starting out on the ice.

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What should I consider when shopping for Ice skates for my toddler?

Ice skating is a fun winter activity that the whole family can enjoy, even toddlers.

However, choosing the right ice skates for your little ones can be overwhelming with so many options available in the market.

It's important to consider several factors when selecting toddler ice skates, including proper fit, blade quality, adjustability range, boot material, and safety features.

Be sure to review each of these factors in detail to help you make an informed decision when selecting the ideal ice skates for your toddler.

What's the right size ice skate for a toddler?

Finding the right ice skate size for a child is crucial for several reasons.

Skates that are too loose can lead to a lack of control and instability on the ice, increasing the risk of falls and injuries.

On the other hand, skates that are too tight can be uncomfortable and cause blisters and pain, making the skating experience unpleasant for the child.

Additionally, wearing ill-fitting skates can impede a child's progress and hinder their development of proper skating techniques.

 Therefore, it's essential to find the correct size of ice skates for a child to ensure they can skate comfortably and confidently while staying safe on the ice.

What's the ideal ice skate blade for a toddler?

When choosing ice skates for a child, it's important to consider the type of blade as it can significantly impact the child's skating experience.

There are two main types of ice skate blades: figure and hockey.

• Figure blades are longer and wider than hockey blades, with a curved toe pick at the front for jumps and spins. They are ideal for figure skating and provide better balance and control on the ice.
• Hockey blades are shorter and narrower, with a straight front edge for quick turns and stops. They are designed for fast movements and quick turns, making them suitable for hockey and speed skating.

When selecting ice skate blades for a child, it's important to consider their skating goals and choose the blade type that best suits their needs.

Is the ice skate boot material important for toddlers?

The materials used to make ice skate boots are an essential factor to consider when shopping for a child's ice skate.

Different materials have varying levels of stiffness and support, which can significantly affect a child's comfort and performance on the ice.

For example, leather boots are the most popular choice for figure skating as they provide excellent support and flexibility, allowing for more intricate moves.

However, they require a break-in period and may be less suitable for young children who need more immediate comfort.

On the other hand, synthetic materials like nylon and plastic are more forgiving and provide instant comfort but may not offer the same level of support as leather.

Additionally, waterproofing is crucial when selecting ice skate boots as they can get wet on the ice, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of blisters.

Therefore, it's essential to consider the boot materials carefully and choose a pair that provides the right balance of comfort, support, and waterproofing for your child's needs

Keep on skating!

Choosing the right ice skate for toddlers is crucial to ensure they have a positive and enjoyable ice skating experience.

A comfortable and well-fitting pair of ice skates can help toddlers gain confidence on the ice, allowing them to explore and have fun while staying safe.

When children feel comfortable in their skates, they're more likely to want to continue skating and develop their skills further, leading to a lifelong love of the sport.

Therefore, taking the time to consider factors like fit, blade type, boot material, and safety features can help parents select the perfect ice skates for their little ones, setting them up for a successful and enjoyable ice skating journey!

If you'd like your toddler to practice ice skating in the comfort of their own home you can do so with the PolyGlide Ice Home Starter Kits!

 

 

Have you ever heard of slide board therapy?

If you’re recovering from an injury, this might be the game-changer to get you moving and grooving again.  

Joint, tissue, and muscle injuries are a part of life.

If you’re an active person, like many of our hockey players and figure skaters, you’ll likely experience sprains, strains, and other soft tissue mishaps.

In some unfortunate circumstances, an ACL tear, rotator cuff tear, Achilles rupture, knee surgery or broken bone can keep you on the sidelines for months.

Injuries aren’t only an athlete’s concern and no one is ammune.

And let’s not even talk about arthritis, which is general wear and tear of your joints.  

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Make The Most Of Your Rehab Therapy WIth A Glide-Infused Slip Board By PolyGlide Ice

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We’re not doctors, but one thing is certain: acute or chronic injuries require treatment (sometimes surgery) and a degree of recovery.

During your recovery, you will probably need physical therapy, which involves a series of stretches, exercises, and movements to strengthen the muscles, tendons, or ligaments impacted by the injury.

Physical therapy is also becoming more innovative, with tools like cryotherapy, massage guns, compression, and oxygen therapy becoming more commonplace. 

Recently, we’ve noticed more athletes and people with chronic injuries use slide boards to help with recovery through therapy.

These were initially designed to simulate ice skating for off-ice training.

However, this versatile device has now become useful for exercise and recovery in the form of slide board therapy.  

7 Innovative Uses for Slideboards 

A slideboard is a rectangular piece of equipment for ice skating training exercises.

Slideboards require booties or other soft covering over the feet, allowing the user to glide from one end to the other.

The original slideboards consist of wood or plastic.

Now, slideboards are made with many different types of polymer products.

They are also useful as an exercise tool, becoming popular among fitness influencers because they have low impact and are great for the joints.  

Slideboards can also help with recovery from injury.

After the first two weeks of surgery, a patient with a lower leg injury, for instance, can begin resistance exercises.

These exercises increase in intensity over time.

Slideboards help therapists and patients by being a fantastic, low-impact exercise.

Here are a few benefits of slide board therapy: 

1. Slideboards Improve Range of Motion 

One goal of physical therapy is to restore the patient’s range of motion (ROM) to an injured joint.

At the end of therapy, the joints should be able to move in all possible directions without severe pain.

ROM exercises are also essential during recovery to prevent muscle and joint stiffness.  

By performing exercises on a slideboard, you can engage a broader range of muscles and joints, leading to improved flexibility and mobility.

In addition, a slideboard helps by providing a smooth, gliding surface to perform exercises that promote stretching and movement.  

For example, you can use a slideboard to perform lateral lunges, which help stretch the inner and outer thighs while working the glutes and hip muscles.

In addition, sliding side-to-side on the board can help extend the hips and lower back, which can be especially beneficial for those with a leg injury.

As there is no impact, incorporating slideboard ROM exercises allows maximum use of the affected joint with minimal pain.

2. Reduce Swelling and Pain While Building Muscle Strength 

Swelling is a common side effect of injury or surgery.

The body produces inflammation to help with healing while reducing the chances of infection.

However, too much swelling is counterproductive and often happens due to pressure placed on the affected area.

Because you’re not running or jumping, slideboards can strengthen the muscles around the injured area to minimize swelling and pain while promoting the healing of tissue damage.

These benefits enable even those with severe injuries to begin rehabilitation sooner. 

After a joint or muscle injury, it is common for the muscles in the affected area to become weakened due to underuse and immobilization.

A slideboard provides a low-impact way to strengthen the surrounding muscles, which is crucial to recovery.

Using a slideboard to perform exercises like lunges, squats, and leg curls can target the muscles in the legs and hips.

In addition, slideboard pushups and side-to-side movements can help with arm, shoulder, or other upper-body injuries.

By performing these exercises with the help of a slideboard, you can maintain a low-impact approach that minimizes the risk of further damage and swelling while effectively strengthening the muscles. 

3. Increases Flexibility 

Flexibility is essential during the recovery process to prevent injury and maintain mobility.

Unfortunately, when you’ve been injured, your muscles and joints can become stiff and inflexible due to immobilization or lack of movement.

This can cause pain and hinder your ability to perform everyday activities. 

Using a slideboard can help to improve flexibility by engaging the muscles and joints in a low-impact, controlled manner.

The sliding motion allows you to move your joints through a full range of motion, which can help to prevent stiffness and improve flexibility.

This can also help to increase blood flow and promote healing by bringing fresh nutrients and oxygen to the injured area. 

4. Provides Low Impact Exercise 

A significant benefit of using a slideboard during leg injury recovery is that it provides a low-impact exercise option.

High-impact exercises, such as running or jumping, can put too much stress on the legs, slowing recovery or leading to further injury.

A slideboard can offer a gentler, low-impact alternative to the muscles and joints.

This is crucial for surgeries with an in-between period after removing the stitches.

You feel good enough to move but realize you aren’t strong enough to perform most exercises.  

Sliding side-to-side on the board can provide a low-impact cardiovascular workout that promotes circulation and helps overall recovery.

Incorporating low-impact exercises with a slideboard into your recovery routine can help you maintain fitness and improve your overall health while recovering from a leg injury.  

5. Offers Variety in Your Routine 

The hardest part about physical therapy recovery is the repetitiveness of it all.

You need to perform the same movements several times a week for several weeks to feel better.

These aren’t explosive movements but slow, tedious steps to strengthen your body.  

Variety in your therapy is essential to help keep you engaged and motivated throughout the recovery process.

A slideboard can offer various exercises that challenge your body differently.

The exercises that can be performed on a slideboard are versatile. Many can be adapted to target different muscle groups and fitness goals.  

For example, you can use a slideboard to perform lateral lunges, squats, hamstring curls, and pikes, among other exercises.

You can vary the intensity and duration of each exercise to create a customized workout that meets your specific needs. 

6. Slideboards encourage movement 

Slideboards are convenient and easy to use.

They can also be stored in small spaces and can be carried easily.

Even with minimal floor space, you can set up a slideboard for your workout.

A single board can encourage you to do different exercises, from lying down, sitting down, and standing up.

This level of convenience can help you receive therapy cheaper and at your earliest convenience.  

7. Helps burn more calories 

Gliding through the slideboard can help you burn more calories and lose weight.

You can also do pushups, lunges, and mountain climbers on it to add more variety to your workout and burn even more calories.

A 20-minute exercise can burn up to 300 calories, as managing weight is essential to recovery.

To achieve better results, you can do the exercises faster while using the slide board to increase the intensity of your workout.  

Try these slideboard upper body exercises. 

Slideboards are known for their lower-body abilities but are effective tools for the upper body.

They can be used for the recovery of rotator cuff tears, collarbone injuries, elbow ligament tears, bicep tears and wrist injuries.

However, you must consult your doctor or physical therapist first before beginning slideboard therapy.

The following exercises require you to be in a plank or pushup position that you can modify by positioning to your knees to make it easier for you.

You can also move the lower body closer to the slideboard.

All exercises require booties, sliders, or other soft materials you can use for sliding.

These will cover your hands or your feet, depending on the exercise you’re doing.  

1. Sliding Jacks 

Adopt a pushup or plank position on the length of the slideboard with the booties covering your feet.

Gently slide your feet away from your body, then back to the starting point, similar to a jumping jack routine.

Repeat this as often as needed.

This exercise strengthens your entire body, including the core, arms, and shoulders.  

2. Arm circles 

Adopt a pushup or plank position on the board.

You can go on your knees as a modified version of the exercise.

The booties or sliders are on your hands this time.

Start the movement by making small, gentle circles with your left hand first, then your right hand.

Go clockwise or anticlockwise, and increase the circle size to improve your range of motion.  

3. Pushups 

Slide boards are great for low-impact pushups.

They also encourage different planes of movement compared to your standard pushup.

Get into a pushup position, arms shoulder-width apart, facing the entire length of the board.

Your hands should be on the board and covered with booties or resting on the sliders.

Gently slide your arms away from your body as you move down into the pushup then slide your arms back into the starting position as you move back up.

Repeat as many times as needed and modify based on pain and fitness levels.  

4. Shoulder reaches 

Adopt a kneeling or plank position facing one of the shorter ends of the slideboard.

Place one arm off the slideboard and the injured arm on it.

Most of your weight should be on the arm off of the slideboard.

Start the exercise by gently sliding the arm on the slideboard away from your body, then once you feel a stretch, return to the starting position.

Keep your core tight and limit any movement of your body.

Play around with different angles to strengthen the muscles.

Repeat this as many times as recommended by your physical therapist.  

And these lower body exercises 

Slideboards shine in treating lower body injuries.

They are handy for ramping up recovery for people with ACL tears, meniscus tears, or other long-term lower-body injuries.

Of course, the length and intensity of your recovery depend on your health, fitness levels, and recommendations from your doctor or therapist.  

Slide lunges 

Slide lunges are the standard exercises used in hockey and figure skating practice, but they are useful for recovering from a lower-body injury.

Place both sliders on your feet and start from one end of the board.

Next, slide your outside foot to the next end of the board, then repeat with the opposite foot.

Maintain a strong core and a low center of gravity, like an ice skater’s pose.  

Mountain climbers 

Adopt a pushup or plank position with your feet covered with sliders.

Your body should adopt a straight line with your hands under your shoulders.

Slowly move your legs, alternating one in front of the other like you would if running.

Drive those feet into the slideboard, increasing speed and intensity based on your therapist’s recommendations.

Try mountain climbers in 30-second increments.  

Glute bridge 

Lie on your back on the slide board with your sliders on your feet.

Keep your arms at your sides.

Slide one or both feet toward your butt while lifting your lower body off the slideboard.

Hold this glute bridge for 5-10 seconds, then return to the starting position.  

4. Leg circles 

Like arm circle exercises, leg circles improve strength and range of motion.

Start in the plank position.

You can bend your knees to modify the exercise.

Slowly make circles with each foot. Aim for ten repetitions per foot, for three sets, or as your therapist advises.  

Conclusion

These exercises should cover most injuries, improving strength, flexibility, and range of motion.

Strengthening the entire body is useful, but you can focus on upper or lower body exercises based on your injury. 

More importantly, exercise is important to a faster recovery, returning to daily activities, and having a better quality of life.

Slideboards will soon become a staple in all physiotherapy practices.

Best of all, you can use your slideboard after recovery for general strength and cardiovascular workouts, reducing the chances of future injury. 

Thinking about grabbing your own slideboard?

Check out our adjustable boards that are perfect for low-impact training.

 

 

Before video games and social media, parents sent their kids outside to play.

During the summer, we'd play football, ride our bikes, or find ways to get into trouble.  

In the winter, it was all about ice skating. 

Ice skating is a timeless activity that kids and adults alike can enjoy.

That hasn't changed.

In fact, it's now expected to know who the best athletes are in figure skating, hockey, or any of ice skating's many disciplines.

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Enjoy Skating Both Indoors Or Outdoors All Year-Long With PolyGlide Ice

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The Nature of The Beast (or ice that is)

Over time, you realize that ice skating has challenges.

A common concern about the sport is its limited accessibility.

Ice skating was only available in colder climates or for those with access to indoor rinks or large skating surfaces.

Now, thanks to synthetic ice, almost anyone can pick up skating, regardless of location.

A big advantage of synthetic ice is that you have the benefits of both outdoor vs. indoor ice skating.

But which one is best?

It's All About Synthetic Ice

Synthetic ice consists of tiles or panels that connect like puzzle pieces to form a smooth, skatable surface.

The best types are made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) materials, which create a fantastic skating experience.

These ice skating tiles are also durable and scalable, making them a revelation in the industry.

Synthetic ice has been around for decades and was mainly used for large commercial rinks.

Now, thanks to advancements in technology, you can create custom rinks of various sizes.

These rinks fit different spaces, making ice skating available inside your home, driveway, or backyard.

Thanks to synthetic ice, outdoor vs. indoor ice skating is now down to space and preference.

 

Outdoor vs. Indoor Ice Skating

When you lace up your ice skates, you'll have two choices: outdoors and indoors.

Of course, a significant factor will be the availability of outdoor vs. indoor ice skating facilities. 

However, if you can access both, you'll notice that each option offers distinctly different skating experiences.

Outdoor skating happens on lakes, ponds, or other bodies of water that naturally freeze during the winter. 

There are also spaces with outdoor refrigerated rinks, such as The Rink at Rockefeller Center that are set up during the Holidays.

You can even create your own backyard rink during the winter using simple supplies (and lots of water).

There's something exhilarating about skating outdoors.

Some spaces have beautiful backdrops, like ice-capped trees, lights, and nature, that really encapsulate the joy of ice skating.

It's also a great feeling when you skate with the crisp air against your skin and connect with nature.

However, comfortable outdoor ice skating is dependent on specific weather conditions.

Too much snow freezes on the surface, making ice skating more challenging.

The fluctuating temperatures in the winter can also make ice skating unsafe on some surfaces.

On the other hand, indoor ice skating is all about skating on refrigerated rinks in a controlled environment.

Neighborhood rinks, professional hockey rinks, and indoor sporting facilities are common examples.

Indoor rinks maintain a consistent temperature, which ensures you can skate at any time in a safe, comfortable space.

It's also great for beginners, thanks to large rink walls, ice skating aids, and rental services.

However, you do lose the charm and excitement that's unique to outdoor ice skating.

Outdoor vs. indoor ice skating is all about preference and availability, but what about if you add synthetic ice?

Outdoor Synthetic Ice Skating

Synthetic ice adds another layer to the debate about outdoor vs. indoor ice skating.

The material is renowned for its durability, meaning you can use it indoors and outdoors.

Outdoor synthetic ice rinks are typically larger than their indoor counterparts placed in driveways or backyards.

This gives you the benefit of ice skating with larger groups, like neighbors or hockey club teammates.

With a synthetic ice rink big enough, you can have group training exercises, practice games, or mini-tournaments.

 You can also skate year-round, as synthetic ice is not governed by the weather.

Some skaters use synthetic ice in the summer for extra training, which is impossible with outdoor natural or refrigerated ice.

Synthetic ice can expand due to heat, but this will not impact your skating experience.

Rain and snow can gather on the surface, affecting your skating experience. 

However, cleaning debris of synthetic ice - like frozen snow - is a breeze, and you can skate in no time.

 Synthetic ice panels can also be covered or moved, allowing you to extend their shelf life.

 Outdoor synthetic ice skating allows you to enjoy skating outside in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings without the drawbacks.

 

Indoor Synthetic Ice Skating

Indoor skating with synthetic ice has some fantastic benefits.

For starters, the synthetic ice panels come in varying sizes, allowing you to set them up in a spare room, garage, basement, or even your living room.

You can also practice specific skills, like spins, jumps, or hockey drills, without heading outside or traveling to an indoor rink.

Indoor use may also be less intensive, allowing you to practice for longer and improve your skills continuously.

Indoor synthetic ice also does not require electricity or water to operate, like its refrigerated counterparts.

It's also not impacted by rain or snow, meaning there are no interruptions to ice skating or poor ice conditions.

At the same time, you'll likely see smaller spaces at home, meaning no competitive games. 

Larger indoor synthetic ice rinks are more common in malls, commercial spaces, or community complexes, which may not allow for hockey or professional ice skating training.

Indoor ice skating can provide a safe, comfortable space for skating or specific training, but the rink's size and flexibility play a major role in what you can do. 

 

Does Ice Skating Maintenance and Durability Differ?

Natural or refrigerated rinks require consistent maintenance for the best skating experience.

These rinks must be resurfaced with hot water or a Zamboni to restore the smooth ice. In many cases, this happens with every use.

Synthetic ice does not require resurfacing, which is a massive advantage in terms of durability.

However, maintenance for outdoor vs. indoor ice skating differs when using synthetic ice.

Both situations require clearing ice shavings that form after using your metal skates. 

 A soft brush and warm, soapy water are enough to clean and prepare the synthetic ice rink.

 You can then reapply a resurfacing agent, which gives synthetic ice a smooth, slippery feel.

Outdoor rinks will need more cleaning and resurfacing than indoor rinks due to exposure to the elements. 

 Avoiding this critical step can reduce the durability of the rink.

However, once done consistently, synthetic ice can last for several years.

A Surprising Conclusion

Both outdoor and indoor ice skating have their pros and cons, regardless of the surface.

However, synthetic ice allows you to skate at any time.

You're not limited by the weather or the cost to set up a refrigerated rink.

Outdoor vs. indoor ice skating is all down to preference and availability.

If you have synthetic ice, you can use it outdoors or take it indoors whenever you want and at any time of year.

You're only limited by your imagination. 

 Let's help you get your first or next synthetic ice rink.

Our home ice starter kits are perfect for those looking to begin their personal skating journey.

For larger, more durable rinks, consider our pro glide panels.

Contact us today and enjoy skating indoors or outdoors!

 

Having the right kind of leg strength is essential for any hockey player, especially if they want to maintain their competitive edge.

Hockey involves a lot of running, jumping, and lunging – all of which require strong legs to perform effectively.

Leg workouts can help hockey players increase their speed, agility, and explosiveness on the ice.

In this article we'll explore the benefits of leg workouts for hockey players, as well as some types of exercises and sample workouts that are ideal for the off-season and in-season.

So lace up those skates; it's time to hit the gym!

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Train Year Round With Polyglide Synthetic Ice

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 Types of Leg Exercises

Leg exercises are an essential part of any hockey player's workout routine.

Not only do they help to build strength and power, but they also improve agility and balance, which are key components of the game.

There are a variety of different leg exercises that you can incorporate into your workout plan, including squats, lunges, step-ups, and calf raises.

• Squats target all the major muscles in your lower body and can be done with weights or just your body weight for a more challenging workout.
• Lunges help to build stability in the hips and thighs while strengthening your quads and glutes.
• Step-ups are great for improving coordination as well as endurance since you have to lift one foot off the ground at a time during this exercise.
• Calf raises target the small muscles in your calves which are important for skating movements on the ice.

Whichever leg exercises you choose to include in your workout plan, make sure that you focus on proper form to avoid injury.

With consistent training and dedication, these exercises will help you take your game to the next level!

1. Squats

Squats are an incredibly effective exercise for hockey players looking to increase their strength and power.

Not only do they target all the major muscles in your lower body, but they also help with balance and coordination, which are essential components of the game.

To do a proper squat, begin standing up straight with feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and toes pointed slightly outward.

From there, bend your knees while keeping your chest lifted and back straight as you lower yourself down until your thighs are parallel to the ground.

Then press through your heels to stand back up again.

You can add weights or medicine balls to make it more challenging if needed. Remember to keep form at the forefront of your mind as you go through each rep - bad form could lead to injury! 

2. Lunges

Lunges are a great exercise for hockey players looking to increase strength and power.

Lunges target all the major muscles in your lower body, including your glutes, quads, and hamstrings.

They also help improve balance and coordination, which are essential components of the game.

To do a proper lunge, start by standing with your feet hip-width apart and hands on hips.

Then step forward with one foot and lower yourself down until both knees reach 90 degrees.

Make sure that your front knee is aligned over your toes and not past them - this will help prevent any injuries!

Finally, press through your heel to stand back up again.

Repeat this same motion with the other leg and focus on keeping good form throughout each rep.

 

3. Step-Ups

Step-ups are an excellent leg workout for hockey players looking to increase power and explosiveness.

They target the same muscles as lunges, but also work your core and stabilizer muscles for added stability.

To do a proper step-up, start by standing in front of a bench or box that is about knee-height.

Step up with one foot onto the bench, pushing through your heel to stand straight up on top of it.

Bring the other foot up so you are standing on top with both feet.

Then carefully step back down with one foot at a time until you’re back in the starting position.

Make sure to keep your chest high, your core tight, and your eyes forward throughout each rep. 

4. Single-Leg Strength Drills

Single-leg strength drills can significantly improve power and agility on the ice by targeting all the muscles in each leg along with core and stabilizer muscles.

This will result in a more balanced strength overall.

To perform a single-leg strength drill, begin by standing on one foot with the other foot off the ground.

Gradually lean forward and extend your arms and legs out to the sides while keeping your chest lifted and core tight with each repetition.

To increase the difficulty, you can add weights or resistance bands once you feel more comfortable with the exercise. 

Regular practice of single-leg strength drills will help improve your balance and stability while playing hockey, so make sure to incorporate them into your routine!

5. Reverse Lunges

Reverse Lunges are an excellent leg workout for hockey players who want to increase their agility and speed on the ice.

This exercise engages both your quadriceps and glutes, giving you a total lower body workout.

To do a reverse lunge, start by standing with your feet hip-width apart.

Take a large step backwards with one foot, then lower yourself down until both knees form 90 degree angles.

Make sure to keep your chest up as you lower and push through your front heel to return back to the starting position.

You can also add weights or resistance bands for an extra challenge.

6. Trap Bar Deadlifts

Trap Bar Deadlifts are one of the best leg exercises for hockey players who want to increase their power and explosiveness on the ice.

This exercise targets all of your major lower body muscles, including your quads, hamstrings and glutes.

To do a trap bar deadlift, set up with your feet slightly wider than hip-width apart with your toes pointed outwards.

Grip the handles of the trap bar and keep your back flat as you lift the bar from the ground to hip level.

Make sure to keep your knees slightly bent throughout the movement and drive through your heels on the way up.

Trap bar deadlifts will help you develop explosive power so you can skate faster and hit harder on the ice - add them into your routine today!

7. Plyometric Exercises

Plyometric exercises are a great way for hockey players to build power and speed on the ice.

These explosive movements target all of your major muscles, including your quads, hamstrings and glutes.

A few examples of plyometric exercises include box jumps, single-leg hops and lateral bounds.

To get started with these exercises, start by choosing a height that you feel comfortable jumping onto or hopping over.

Begin by jumping onto the box or hopping in one direction then quickly reverse the direction as soon as you land. 

8. Lateral Movement Drills

Lateral movement drills are a great way for hockey players to improve their agility on the ice.

These exercises involve moving sideways, and they can help you to quickly transition from one direction to the next while skating.

To get started with lateral movement drills, you can practice shuffling, carioca or crossover steps.

Shuffling steps involve taking quick, small steps in one direction, while carioca and crossover steps involve crossing your legs as you move side-to-side.

As you practice these drills, focus on staying low to the ground and pushing off with your toes as you move from side-to-side.

9. Core Training Exercises

Core training exercises are essential for any hockey player looking to improve their performance on the ice.

Core strength is important for stability and balance, as well as maintaining proper posture while skating.

To work on your core, try exercises such as planks, mountain climbers, crunches and Russian twists.

These exercises will help to strengthen your abdominal muscles and increase your overall core strength.

Additionally, be sure to focus on breathing throughout each exercise as this will ensure that you get the most out of your workout and make the exercises more effective. 

10. Calf Raises

Calf raises are a great exercise for building calf strength and endurance.

They are important for hockey players who need to be able to skate for extended periods of time.

To perform a proper calf raise exercise, you should stand on a raised platform or step with the balls of their feet firmly planted on the edge of the platform.

You then slowly lower your heels below the level of the platform, feeling a stretch in your calves.

Then raise your heels as high as possible, holding the contraction for a second before slowly lowering back down to the starting position.

It's important to perform the exercise in a slow and controlled manner, and to avoid bouncing or jerking movements.

Gradually increasing the weight or resistance used for the exercise can help the athlete build calf strength and endurance over time..

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Train Year Round With Polyglide Synthetic Ice

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Range of Motion & Starting Position Basics for Hockey Leg Workouts

Incorporating proper range of motion and starting position basics are key factors for successful leg workouts among hockey players.

Achieving full range of motion during exercise helps prevent injuries and allows for maximum results, while a comfortable starting position allows for proper form.

While performing leg workouts, ensure you are moving through a full range of motion and begin in a comfortable standing or seated position.

Keep your back straight, head up, and spine and neck aligned throughout the exercise.

Prioritizing proper range of motion and starting position can increase the effectiveness of your workouts while reducing the risk of injury.

By focusing on proper range of motion and starting position during your leg workouts, you’ll be able to maximize the effectiveness of each exercise while reducing the risk of injury.

Now that you have a better understanding of these basics, let’s take a look at another important element: proper body alignment and posture!

 

Proper Body Alignment and Posture

Maintaining proper body alignment and posture is crucial when performing leg workouts, as it can prevent injury and enhance results.

To ensure proper alignment, begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, keeping your head up, back straight, and knees slightly bent.

Relax your shoulders, avoiding hunching forward or lifting them up.

Maintaining correct posture throughout the exercise will help engage your core and avoid straining other parts of your body.

Focusing on proper body alignment and posture while performing leg workouts can maximize the effectiveness of each exercise while reducing the risk of injury.

Maintaining Good Form Throughout the Exercise Movements

Maintaining good form during exercise movements is vital to achieve optimal results and prevent injuries that can hinder your progress.

The focus should be on the movement pattern instead of the weight lifted.

Maintaining a neutral spine with an engaged core throughout the exercise is crucial. Keep your shoulders down and back, chest up, and knees slightly bent.

Practice slow, controlled movements with continuous control of the weight. If you feel any discomfort, stop immediately and adjust your posture.

Prioritizing proper form during exercise movements can maximize the effectiveness of each workout while reducing the risk of injury.

Working Out During the Off-season vs. During the Hockey Season

During the hockey season, it can be difficult to fit in time for a good workout.

With practice and games taking up the majority of your time, it's important to focus on training that will have the greatest impact on your performance.

Off-season workouts are great for building strength, power, and endurance – All essential components of success on the ice.

However, during the season you should focus more on corrective exercises and mobility drills that will help you stay healthy throughout the year.

Workouts during this time should also be shorter in duration and involve less overall volume to avoid fatigue and injury.

By taking a focused approach to working out both during the offseason and regular season, you can maximize your performance while staying healthy!

By staying focused on your specific needs during the season and offseason, you can optimize your performance and stay healthy. Ready to take it up a notch?

Check out our Sample Off Season Lower Body Workout For Hockey Players for some great exercises to get you in game shape!

Sample Off-Season Lower Body Workout For Hockey Players

Hockey players need to stay in top physical shape during the off-season if they want to maximize their performance when the season starts.

A great way to do just that is with a sample off-season lower body workout designed specifically for hockey players.

This type of workout should focus on building strength, power and endurance.

The Sample Off Season Lower Body Workout For Hockey Players includes exercises like squats, lunges, step-ups, hip thrusts, and lateral jumps.

These exercises will help you develop both power and endurance for better performance on the ice.

Additionally, these workouts can help improve your speed, agility, and flexibility which are all important aspects of playing hockey at an elite level.

By incorporating this sample off-season lower body workout into your training routine, you’ll be able to take your game to the next level while also avoiding fatigue and injury during the regular season.

So don’t wait - start using this sample off-season lower body workout today to ensure you're making the most out of every practice and game!

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Train Year Round With Polyglide Synthetic Ice

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Sample 2 Day Per Week Workout:

Day 1:

1. Squats - 4 sets x 8 reps
2. Lunges - 3 sets x 10 reps (each leg)
3. Single-leg deadlifts - 3 sets x 12 reps (each leg)
4. Reverse lunges - 2 sets x 15 reps (each leg)
5. Plyometric box jumps - 3 sets x 8 reps
6. Lateral movement drills - 3 sets x 30 seconds (each direction)
7. Plank - 3 sets x 30 seconds

Day 2:

1. Trap bar lunges - 4 sets x 8 reps
2. Step-ups - 3 sets x 10 reps (each leg)
3. Bulgarian split squats - 3 sets x 12 reps (each leg)
4. Single-leg calf raises - 2 sets x 15 reps (each leg)
5. Plyometric lateral bounds - 3 sets x 8 reps
6. Core rotations - 3 sets x 12 reps (each side)
7. Side plank - 3 sets x 30 seconds (each side)

Perform this workout plan twice a week, with at least one day of rest between each session.

Ensure you use a weight that challenges you, but that you can perform with good form.

As you progress, consider increasing the weight, reps, or sets to continue challenging your body.

Remember to warm-up thoroughly before starting any workout and to stretch and cool down after.

Also, consult with a healthcare professional or certified trainer before starting any new exercise program to ensure it's safe for you.

Sample 4 Day Full Body Workout:

Day 1: Upper Body

1. Bench Press - 4 sets x 8 reps
2. Lat Pulldowns - 3 sets x 10 reps
3. Overhead Press - 3 sets x 12 reps
4. Bent Over Rows - 2 sets x 15 reps
5. Bicep Curls - 3 sets x 8 reps
6. Tricep Extensions - 3 sets x 8 reps
7. Plank - 3 sets x 30 seconds

Day 2: Lower Body

1. Squats - 4 sets x 8 reps
2. Lunges - 3 sets x 10 reps (each leg)
3. Single-leg deadlifts - 3 sets x 12 reps (each leg)
4. Reverse lunges - 2 sets x 15 reps (each leg)
5. Plyometric box jumps - 3 sets x 8 reps
6. Lateral movement drills - 3 sets x 30 seconds (each direction)
7. Plank - 3 sets x 30 seconds

Day 3: Rest

Day 4: Upper Body

1. Dumbbell Flys - 4 sets x 8 reps
2. Seated Cable Rows - 3 sets x 10 reps
3. Arnold Press - 3 sets x 12 reps
4. Pull-ups - 2 sets x 15 reps
5. Hammer Curls - 3 sets x 8 reps
6. Skull Crushers - 3 sets x 8 reps
7. Side Plank - 3 sets x 30 seconds (each side)

Day 5: Lower Body

1. Trap bar lunges - 4 sets x 8 reps
2. Step-ups - 3 sets x 10 reps (each leg)
3. Bulgarian split squats - 3 sets x 12 reps (each leg)
4. Single-leg calf raises - 2 sets x 15 reps (each leg)
5. Plyometric lateral bounds - 3 sets x 8 reps
6. Core rotations - 3 sets x 12 reps (each side)
7. Side plank - 3 sets x 30 seconds (each side)

Day 6-7: Rest

Get Started!

Perform this workout plan twice a week, with at least one day of rest between each session.Ensure you use a weight that challenges you, but that you can perform with good form.

As you progress, consider increasing the weight, reps, or sets to continue challenging your body.

Remember to warm-up thoroughly before starting any workout and to stretch and cool down after.

Also, consult with a healthcare professional or certified trainer before starting any new exercise program to ensure it's safe for you.

Here's a few off-ice rink packages to add a little "spice" to your off-season workout routine: POLYGLIDE PRO-GLIDE RINK PACKAGE

 

So you decided to start your search for the best synthetic ice for figure skaters?

Look no further as we have a lot of information here for you to review and help with your research.

In this article, we will discuss the different types of surfaces that are available and which one is best suited for your needs.

We'll also take a look at some of the benefits of owning your own synthetic surface and creating your own home training center.

There's a lot of information out there, so it's important to take the time to ascertain what would be the ideal product for you before pulling the trigger on a purchase.

So whether you're a beginner just starting out or an experienced competitive skater, read on to find out more about the best synthetic ice skating surface for you!

What is the Purpose of Your Rink?

It's important to understand what goals you're trying to achieve by owning your own synthetic ice rink for your home or business.

Having unlimited ice available whenever you want is a huge advantage for any skater, but only if they utilize it.

Having your own "Home Ice Advantage" can be a great thing as long as you take the time to lace up your skates and get out there on the ice.

Here are five good reasons why any figure skater may want to consider owning their own home synthetic ice rink:

1. Develop a Proper Skating Technique

Having the extra time to practice at home affords any skater the time to work on the basics and build a solid skating foundation and advance their overall skills.

By doing so, they will get the most out of each stride and build an overall sense of confidence when performing all of their skating elements and maneuvers.

Once a new skill has been learned, they can challenge themselves to the point of failure and take their skating to the next level while building muscle memory.

2. Increase Speed and Power

 Another huge advantage to owning your own synthetic ice rink is the "Positive Friction" that is added to every workout every time to step foot on the ice.

The additional surface friction of skating on artificial ice requires roughly 5-10% more effort, thus naturally strengthening each skating muscle group being worked on.

Think of it like a baseball player that puts a weighted doughnut on his/her bat before stepping into the batter's box.

Once you get used to training on synthetic ice, your feet will naturally feel a lot lighter the next time you go to the rink and take to the ice.

3. Improve Footwork and Agility 

A lot of the basic figure skating elements can be taught in a small area and do not require the luxury of skating on open ice to work on your footwork and agility.

The great thing about practicing your moves in a smaller space is that you quickly repeat the drill if a mistake is made or you want to hone and strengthen each specific skill.

You'll find that you spend a lot more time training and less time floating around between drills on a smaller surface which helps you get the most out of each practice.

Once you start to see the results you were hoping for, you can start to speed things up, which will get those feet moving quicker with each drill as you continue to build confidence.

4. Enhance Your Jumps and Spins

Jumps and spins are two of the most popular elements that require endless hours of practice to get it just right, and having your own synthetic ice rink will only help you get the desired results that much quicker.

You can use the time at home to record your progress and make corrections where needed as you continue to improve each of these important skills.

Having the extra ice time will also enable you to develop your balance quicker when learning different ways to work on each spin.

You'll be happy to know that you do not require a lot of space to learn or improve jumps and spins on synthetic ice, so it's not necessary to create too large of a rink if that's the main reason for your purchase.

5. Practice your Routine

Once you and your coach have choreographed your routine and music, you can prepare yourself mentally for any competition rink in the comfort of your own home.

This goes back to the confidence factor, which is a great advantage to any competitive skater who wants to place well at any event they may choose to enter.

Having the time to mentally prepare yourself away from the rink and spotlight is a benefit that any skater would love to have when trying to compete at the next level.

As they say, "Practice makes perfect," and although we all know there's no such thing as perfect, a little extra practice never hurt anyone, and you'll get that on your own home synthetic ice rink.

What Size Area and Budget?

The next thing to consider when choosing a synthetic ice skating surface is the type of skating drills you'll be doing.

If you're just starting out, you may just want a small surface until you feel more comfortable on your edges and then grow your rink over time.

For more experienced skaters, you may want a surface that is faster and more responsive with an area large enough to practice all of your skating elements.

Throughout the years, we here at PolyGlide Ice have developed surfaces that address any skater's needs to help them achieve their goals, from beginners to competitive Olympians.

Knowing the main purpose of your rink will help you figure out what type of surface would be ideal for the space you have within the budget you have set out for your project.

• Size of Your Space
• Portable or Dedicated Panel
• Budget

Space

The size of your rink should be determined by what your general needs are along with the space you have available.

If it's for training, then the size of the skater should also be considered and what drills they need to perform on the surface to accomplish their goals.

It's typical for people to think that they need a large surface, but nothing could be further from the truth if the purpose of the rink is solely for off-ice training.

You'd be surprised how much can be accomplished with just a little bit of space.

Portable or Dedicated Rink

The reason why there are so many types of synthetic ice panels is mainly that everyone's needs are different.

To help you understand the type of panels, we broke it down into two basic categories:

• Portable Rinks (Synthetic Ice Tiles)
• Dedicated (Synthetic Ice Panels)

If you're a family or person with limited space, then you may want to consider a portable panel that can be installed and disassembled easily for quick usage.

Here at PolyGlide Ice, we currently offer portable panels in both our Home Starter Kit and Pro-Glide "Cube" commercial-grade models.

Both of these panels are light enough to be handled by a single adult during the installation process.

Also, if you have limited access to the rink location, a portable panel makes it easier to maneuver into hard-to-reach areas.

Budget (All in or Grow Your Rink)

The nice thing about having a large selection of panels to pick and choose from is that you can choose to grow your rink a little at a time or all at once.

Our larger PolyGlide Ice Pro-Glide panel is ideal for any dedicated space or large rink as it requires fewer seams overall to complete your rink layout.

Keep in mind that larger panels are heavier and bulkier than synthetic ice tiles and are best handled by two people during the installation process.

If you decide you would prefer to grow your rink a little at a time, then you could choose any panel you like with a smaller start-up investment and order additional panels down the road to help finance your project.

What Types Should You Choose?

As you begin your search in your quest to find the best synthetic ice for figure skating, it helps to understand a few things about the product and how it developed over the years.

When it was first introduced at trade shows decades ago, it was not much more than a white cutting board treated with any slippery topical solution you could find (olive oil, vegetable oil, wax, grease, silicone), you name it, it was used.

The plastic itself was an early form of Polyethylene plastic that was originally developed in the 1950s and has come a long way since then.

Polyethylene plastic sheets are currently available in many forms throughout many different industries and applications.

There are two types of manufacturing processes performed to create Polyethylene sheets that are suitable for ice skating when either topical or infused slip agents are introduced.

They are:

• Extruded HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) The extruded manufacturing process is performed by adding a masterbatch of HDPE pellets into a large hopper that drops into a rotating screw under high heat that is pushed through a die to create a continuous sheet of plastic. Think of it as a very large, plastic "Play-Dough" machine.
• Sinter-Pressed UHMWPE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) SInter-Pressed sheets are manufactured using a high amount of heat and pressure to form a solid mass of plastic which is then "planed" to create the desired consistent thickness of the panel being manufactured.

Slip Agents

Slip agent additives or lubricants are what give the artificial ice surface more of an "ice-like" feel without being too "sticky." 

Types

• Topical - Any lubricant application applied to reduce the surface coefficient of friction after the manufacturing process, such as a biodegradable glide enhancer mixed with water or silicone spray.
• Infused - A percentage of slip agent additive is mixed-in with masterbatch resin prior to the manufacturing process to create a thoroughly infused synthetic ice sheet.

Optimal Glide

The best way to achieve optimal glide out of any synthetic ice surface is to consider purchasing an infused surface and combining it with a topical slip agent conditioner to achieve the best results.

Maintenance

The really is no such thing as zero maintenance with any flooring product, especially one that you can ice skate on.

It's important to keep your surface clean from dirt and debris to maximize the performance throughout the lifetime of the product.

Be sure to sweep away surface shavings regularly and dispose of them with your recyclables as part of your daily/weekly maintenance.

Pros and Cons

As with any type of product, there are pros and cons that you may want to consider before making your purchase.

At PolyGlide Ice, we offer all types of residential and commercial grade surfaces and have heard the Pros and cons of all types of surfaces.

Non-Infused HDPE:

• Pros - This is typically the least expensive product on the market.
• Cons - The most "sticky" type of surface with the least amount of glide.

Infused HDPE:

• Pros - Offers optimal glide with the least amount of skate blade wear.
• Cons - Higher price point than standard HDPE sheet.

Non-Infused UHMWPE:

• Pros - Offers the least amount of surface wear.
• Cons - Less rigid than HDPE sheet at a much higher cost.

Infused UHMWPE:

• Pros - Offers optimal glide with the least amount of surface wear.
• Cons - The highest-priced surface with most skate blade wear.

Conclusion

So what is truly the best synthetic ice for figure skating?

We have heard a lot of customer feedback over the years on all the products listed above, and the key thing to understand is that all skaters want the closest feel to natural ice possible.

It's also important to think of synthetic ice as a "simulator" to natural ice, much the same way golfers and other athletes use simulators.

The bottom line is that ice is ice, and plastic allows you to make all the same maneuvers as natural ice, which is a great asset.

Infused UHMWPE with a slip agent conditioner offers great glide, but because of the hardness of the surface, skaters complain they can't "dig-in" like they can on HDPE.

Figure skaters are also very cautious when it comes to the wear and tear on the skate blade, which you get from a workout on UHMWPE.

An infused HDPE surface with a surface conditioner will shave slightly more than UHMWPE, but it does allow the skater to grip the surface better when training.

At PolyGlide Ice, we have developed our "Hydrid" Pro-Glide synthetic ice panel that combines all the best characteristics from both infused UHMWPE & HDPE plastics to create the best synthetic ice for figure skaters!