Info & Tips

Skating on synthetic ice has been a fantastic experience for our customers.

With synthetic ice, you can acquire panels cut and designed to your specifications.

That means you can skate almost anywhere and, more importantly, anytime during the year.

Of course, like peanut butter and jelly, synthetic ice won’t work without ice skates.

So it’s about time we answer a question that we get all the time; how do you buy skates for synthetic ice?

We’ve gone to many lengths to ensure that our synthetic ice feels as close to the real thing.

For the uninitiated, synthetic ice are panels made of polyethylene sheets

These tiles were initially introduced for large-scale ice rinks.

Now, you can get custom-made panels that interlock for your home. 

PolyGlide’s Synthetic Ice, in particular, has gone through changes to make the skating experience feel like natural ice.

Wherever you decide to set up your rink, you’ll want an excellent skating experience.

These tips for buying your skates will help you make the best out of your ice.  

 

 

Tips for Buying Ice Skates

Yes, you’ll need your metal skates for your synthetic ice.

If you’re buying your first skates or upgrading some old ones, you’ll need to think about a few things:

What’s your flavor?

The first thing that you should consider is the skate’s primary use.

If you’re starting in ice skating, this means you have to choose between figure skates or ice hockey skates. 

These skates differ in style, blades, and fit for the wearer according to their purpose. 

 

 

Figure skates

Figure skates are generally very flexible to support the wide range of movements (think spinning, gliding, jumping, stretching, and turning). 

Figure skates are usually made of leather which gives a tight fit yet allows quick movements.

The blades are also exceptionally sharp.

This quality enables the figure skaters to make quick turns and accurate movements.

They also have toe picks that look like tiny teeth.

This feature allows you to have more control of the skate when you jump or spin. 

Ice hockey skates

Ice hockey skates are typically lighter, narrower, and flatter compared to figure skates.

These qualities are necessary so they won’t hurt your game.

Compared to figure skates, hockey skates have a stiffer boot to protect your foot in a high-contact sport like hockey.

The blades of ice hockey skates don’t have toe picks. Instead, they are narrower and rounded at the front and back, making them quite curved.

This curved design gives the player increased speed, agility, and maneuverability. 

 

 

Recreational skates

Skating is a great hobby and a great way to stay fit! So you may need recreational skates instead.

Recreational ice skates are usually cheaper, with a balance between protection and style.

Most are lightweight with extra ventilation.

These skates are simple, reliable, and last a long time if you’re occasionally skating.

Consider your experience level.

Next is your skill and experience level. Ice skates are also designed to suit your skills.

There are entry-level skates, intermediate and advanced skaters. 

So as your level progresses, you’ll realize the need to buy a new one. 

Entry-level skates

This type of skates has synthetic outers and linings, a PVC sole, and a basic blade.

It’s best for occasional skating or if you are starting to learn how to skate.

If you wish to try figure skating, entry-level skates may not be able to support your movements.

Intermediate and Advanced

If you’ve progressed to this level already, you may check out the products of some top manufacturers like Bauer, Risport, Riedell, and K2.

These companies have invested in research and development to ensure that their skates will perform as excellently as their wearer. 

Recreational skates

Recreational skates are designed for fun and occasional ice skating.

They have a simplified lacing pattern to make it quick and easy for the owner to wear and remove.

These skates work for those who have improved their skills, but it’s not built for jumps and spins.  

Know the correct size and fit for you.

Next, think about the size and fit.

Your skates must fit well. If you or your kids hit the ice, you’ll be there for a while.

The last thing you’d want is a pair of skates that are too big, or worse, too small. Poor-fitting skates cause blisters and can make the experience less than desirable. 

Unlike conventional shoes, where you have to worry about the length (size) of the shoe, skates have a couple more dimensions to consider:

1. Your skate size is your starting point. Your shoe size and your skate aren’t the same measurements. Skate sizes are measured about one and a half (1.5) units smaller than regular shoe sizes. So if you wear a size 10, your skate size is 9.5. For kids, it’s one size smaller.
2. Skates also come with skate width as a measurement. The width helps with a proper fit from the instep. Skate widths come from Narrow To Extra-wide, allowing the skates to stay snug during turns and stops.  
3. Skates also fit by volume. This is the overall shape and cuts of the boot. The volume determines the space you’ll have at the heel and specific performance measures native to that brand. Volume comes in High, Medium, and Low, particularly with hockey skates. These measurements allow skates to be versatile. For instance, you can get a Medium volume skate with a width that’s ‘Extra-wide.’ 

The skates’ size and fit are necessary for you to have absolute control of the blades, especially if you are a figure skater who jumps and spins. 

Finding your true size can be difficult, especially if you’re buying online.

Luckily, you can trace your foot on a sheet of paper to get the right length and width according to the brand’s style guide.

 

 

When you do get a pair or get to try them on, loosen the laces or buckles, then push your foot forward, there should be enough space to insert a finger behind your heel.

It is also best to wear the socks you’re planning to use for ice skating when trying on and buying ice skates. 

There are ice skates that are already adjustable for kids - allowing parents to lengthen the boot as the kid grows.

Adjustable models can expand to 3 or 4 sizes, which is best and practical if the child is still growing. 

Consider how often you’ll use the skates.

If you’re trying out ice skating or might go on the rink just a few times, then you should not invest in an expensive skate. Regular, recreational ones will do.

If you are a professional figure skater or hockey player, then you’ll most likely wear the skates for hours every day.

In this case, you need to invest in a durable, high-performance skate.

Research different brands.

If you’re investing in a skate for long-term, extensive use, make sure to do some research first.

Go through the different brands and study the various models that suit your needs and preferences.

Look for reviews from actual users. You can even ask coaches and other athletes in your sport for recommendations. 

Consider renting first.

On the flip side, if you’re trying out ice skating as a new hobby or simply not prepared to spend on skates, think about renting a pair.

Rental skates can help you try out different fits and brands until you reach more advanced levels. Brands like Riedell have a great online rental program. 

Skating Tips on Synthetic Ice

When you get your fresh pair of skates, you’ll be eager to hit your synthetic ice rink. Here are some tips to help you get the best out of the experience. 

Keep your blades nice and sharp. 

Before hitting the ice, have your skate blades sharpened which will do wonders for your performance.

Depending on the intensity of your movements, aim for a specific Radius Of Hollow or ROH.

Ice skate blades have two edges with a curved hollow between them.

The depth of the hollow determines factors like glide and speed. 

A ⅝ ROH shallow sharpening helps you specifically with gliding.

However, if you are still losing an edge frequently, you may try a deeper ½” sharpening to keep the hollow longer.

Having a sharpening machine at home is a recommended investment. 

Invest in a second pair of skates. 

If you switch from synthetic ice to natural ice or vice versa, invest in a second pair of skates dedicated to synthetic ice training.

This will save some time sharpening your skates every time you want (or have) to skate on natural ice.

Having an alternative pair of skates will also lengthen the lifespan of the blades of both. 

Heat your blades.

Next is to heat your skate blades.

Set aside at least 2 to 5 minutes to warm up the steel before stepping on any synthetic ice.

Warmed-up steel will have better interaction with the surface and prevent skidding.

This step is also helpful to activate the embedded lubricant. 

Clean your synthetic ice

Eventually, your synthetic ice will produce shavings.

The new ridges made from your blades improve the performance of the skates, but excess shavings do the opposite.

For the best experience, clean your synthetic ice panels with warm soapy water with a mop or cloth.

Conclusion

Finding the right skates can make skating on your synthetic ice rink a fantastic experience.

Make sure to focus on fit and get a pair of skates that’s perfect for your skating level.

If you can visit a local shop, test multiple fits.

If that’s not possible, measure your foot at home and make sure there’s a return policy in place.

You’ll love skating on synthetic ice, and it will be even better with the perfect pair of skates.

If we were to guess, these next few years will be transformative ones for the synthetic ice industry as a whole.

For starters, the Covid pandemic has transformed the way we operate.

Other social issues have transformed the lives of Americans overnight.

And while many areas have reduced restrictions, millions of people are still having to deal with the after effects of the pandemic..

It definitely has changed the way we shop, eat, work, and even entertain ourselves.

At the same time, it has opened opportunities for innovative ways to flourish while at home.

That’s why we think that this is the year of the synthetic ice rink.

 

What’s Artificial Ice Anyway?

 

What if there was a way to ice skate without going to an actual ice rink?

Artificial ice or synthetic ice gives avid ice skaters that ability and much more.

An artificial ice rink is made of synthetic polymer panels.

These panels interlock to form a space that anyone can skate.

The panels have evolved over the years to have a better skating experience.

 

With PolyGlide Ice, there’s only a 10% difference between ice skating and artificial ice.

Creating your ice rink has become more comfortable and more accessible.

With that said, here are some reasons why this is the year to develop your arena using synthetic ice panels or tiles.

 

Ice skating enthusiasts are concerned about health and safety.

 

 

Unfortunately, the pandemic has created concern for the skating community.

Throughout the pandemic, many ice rinks were unavailable, making skating nearly impossible.

Even with the reopening of some areas, parents and ice skating enthusiasts alike are still concerned about health and safety.

By choosing to set up a synthetic ice rink in the backyard, spare room, or basement, skaters can still enjoy their passions in a safe space.

Don’t worry, with tools like Zoom, ice-skaters, and hockey players can even connect with coaches and trainers!

Pivoting to stay afloat

 The coaching and training profession has been struck, and not only in the ice skating field.

Coaches were no longer able to host in-person group sessions, or open their training centers

Even as things have resumed - at it has in many states - students will be skeptical to start back classes in the short term.

This puts a financial strain on trainers. Technology helps trainers pivot and profit.

Imagine a hockey trainer can give lessons from his home, demonstrating techniques to students on artificial ice panels.

Many teachers have found it difficult to keep their current students.

By building an online presence, it gives them incredible reach, exposing them to students out of state or in other countries. 

Keeping kids engaged throughout the extended break.

The lockdown has brought a list of challenges, with an added challenge for parents.

Kids have been home for months.

These kids don’t only need to keep up learning.

They need to keep active, engaged, and try different activities.

At the same time, parents still need time to adjust to working from home.

No parent wants their kids in front of an I-pad for 9 hours a day.

An artificial ice rink is a creative way to encourage play for the kids.

The kids can enjoy skating while staying healthy and exploring a passion for sports like hockey or ice-skating.

And parents can reclaim some time to navigate remote work. 

A new way to stay active 

Adults are home and need exciting yet creative ways to stay active.

With limited access to many gyms, many fitness enthusiasts have been working out at home.

Unfortunately, exercise equipment like weights, kettlebells, and bands are hard to find.

The lockdown caused a boom that gym equipment businesses are unable to keep up.

And while running on a treadmill works, it can get a bit boring!

Persons who did not consider skating as a form of exercise are doing so now.

Skating is an exciting way to build endurance, strengthen the legs, and core muscles.

An artificial ice rink allows users to build up a sweat, learn a new skill, and have lots of fun! 

Training during a pandemic

The pandemic certainly put the sporting world on hold.

Even professional sports had to get creative to return to action.

The NHL has also got creative with the season resuming in July.

Professional hockey players who weren't part of the playoffs had an opportunity to come back stronger than ever.

A great start for any skater is to get an artificial ice rink installed in their homes.

One significant advantage of the rink is the positive resistance compared to natural ice.

This means not only a prepared athlete but a stronger one.

The figure skating season also had an abrupt end, with cancellations of the World Championships.

While the season resumed on July 1st, some events for the new season have already been canceled.

Skaters will need space to train and may not have immediate access to facilities.

This can bring an increased demand for artificial ice surfaces.

We haven’t even talked about the persons at Junior levels.

Organizers have canceled the next two stops of the Junior Grand Prix.

They will need to stay fresh and passionate about their sport.

And there’s no better way than having direct access to skating.

Let your creativity shine.

Quarantine has opened up a host of new hobbies, from gardening, jewelry making, to baking lots of banana bread.

How about building out your very own synthetic ice rink?

Feed that creativity, while setting up a space for family and friends to enjoy.

It’s a gratifying experience, and who knows?

You can even host a small skating party if the area is big enough (remember the pandemic rules that apply to your state). 

Setting up Your Synthetic ice rink

Getting your ice rink down is a quick and easy process.

However, it does take some initial planning. Follow these steps to start skating in no time:

• Figure out the space for the synthetic ice (e.g., basement, driveway, garage, deck, or backyard)
• Measure the space before purchasing your synthetic ice rink. You can compare your area with the available tiles. This saves both time and money. In some cases, the panels can be custom cut to avoid too many interlocking tiles. 
• Make sure the surface is level for a better skating experience. If needed, get some plywood. Plywood sets up a smooth foundation to lay the tiles.
• If filling a room, leave a space at the edges to compensate for swelling during hot months.
• Based on the type of tile, consider investing in a slip conditioner. This liquid helps condition the surface after cleaning and extends the life of the tiles.

A brand-new way to connect

 

One thing we’ve recognized providing others with synthetic ice is the uncanny way it brings people together.

A synthetic ice rink brings families together.

Brothers and sisters build bonds playing hockey, even when things get a bit competitive.

It can help develop more reliable connections with couples learning to skate or help coaches and players achieve a common goal.

You can even set up a Curling rink.

Curling is a fun way to get the most out of your artificial panels.

The sport has its detractors, but it’s great when friends and family come over to enjoy your company and get a bit competitive.

We need to stay connected now more than ever.

 

Getting your winter vacation fix

 

Planes have been grounded for months and will slowly return to operation.

The grounded planes brought leisure travel to a screeching halt.

According to USJetCost.com, 23% of Americans prefer winter vacations.

While it sounds strange, some persons just don’t have access to cold conditions.

In some cases, they’ve done it all, so why not a winter getaway?

Many go not just for the skiing and snowboarding, but for the opportunity to enjoy an ice skating experience.

The pandemic derailed plans this past winter and also brings uncertainty for the rest of the year.

While you won’t get your snow fix, you can still enjoy a bit of skating this year with an artificial ice rink. 

 

Conclusion

There are several reasons to jump on the artificial ice rink train.

For starters, it’s a great way to enjoy ice skating with limited spaces opened.

The pandemic has been challenging, but it does not mean we can’t get to do the things we love.

By setting up an artificial ice rink at home, professionals, amateurs, juniors can still learn and improve in their respective ice fields. 

Kids also get incredible benefits from an artificial ice rink.

If you want to start your kids with hockey or keep up their training, a dedicated space at home works best.

It also brings some variety in an area that can turn frustrating during the quarantine.

That aside, 2020 & 2021 were certainly years of growth and change.

That means learning new things and having fun along the way.

Some persons can even start a New Year’s resolution to ice skate, just in a different, yet fun way.

This year will motivate others to try new things like synthetic ice skating.

Are you ready to give it a shot, too?

If you need help with choosing the right synthetic ice for your new rink, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help. 

Take a look at some of our most popular rink packages!

PolyGlide Ice - Home Ice Tiles

PolyGlide Ice - Pro-Glide Panels

 

Keep on Skating! 

Jim Loughran, PolyGlide Ice
www.polyglideice.com

We can't help but think about how we could do our part and explain how you can go green with synthetic ice. 

Some recent statistics show that we have a long way to go to help our environment.

The energy consumed in homes contributes to almost one-quarter of greenhouse gas emissions.

More than 8 million people die every year due to air pollution.

So what do these things have to do with ice skating?

Skating involves putting on some boots with blades and moving across the ice.

It may not seem like it, but ice skating also impacts the Earth in its own way.

As a company focused on serving skaters around the country (and the world), we know firsthand what it takes to run a large ice rink, and we know what it takes to start your own ice rink at home.

As the saying goes, every drop fills the bucket.

Regardless of your niche, there is something you can do to help. Y

You can go green with synthetic ice.

Here are ten tips that can help you do your part to stay green and nurture your environment while still enjoying your time on the ice.

 

1. Invest in Energy-Saving Bulbs For Your At-Home Rink

Since the 2020 pandemic, there has been a rise in at-home skating rinks.

With public and private rinks closed, skaters needed some way to train or enjoy their favorite pastime.

These at-home rinks, like their larger counterparts, take up their fair share of energy.

For instance, the family could install floodlights for skating at night if the rink is outdoors.

There may be other lighting options for indoor skating as well.

Installing energy-saving lightbulbs is one of the simplest (and best) ways to go green while skating.

Eco-friendly light bulbs can save up to 75% of energy consumption compared to incandescent light bulbs.

Swap them out on your floodlights or in the room for your indoor rink.

You’ll even save some money on the electric bill!

2. Manage Energy Consumption When You’re Not Skating

Going green means taking care of your environment, even when you’re not skating.

After packing up your skates for the day, make sure to do your best to keep energy consumption at a minimum.

Start by switching off your eco-friendly lights when you’re done. 

If you have a refrigerated ice rink, you’ll need to consume large amounts of energy even when you’re not on the ice.

The ice rink has to stay on to keep the rink frozen, similar to the refrigerator in your kitchen.

It’s constantly removing heat and adding cold through its compressor and chiller.

Over the winter months, your ice rink can consume lots of energy.

Make sure to invest in an energy-efficient refrigeration system.

Get sound advice from the service provider, making sure to select the equipment that saves energy and helps the environment, even when it’s not in use.

 

3. Opt For A Home Synthetic Ice Rink Instead Of Refrigerated

If you’re concerned about the carbon footprint of a refrigerated rink, why not go for something else?

A synthetic ice rink is a durable, polyethylene material that you can skate on with regular metal skates.

Synthetic rinks are quite popular for malls and special events.

Today, companies like ours have optimized these rinks to fit almost any space.

The rink comes in panels that connect like puzzle pieces and can work on most flat surfaces.

That means no energy consumption, costly maintenance, and a healthier environment.

Some refrigerated ice rinks are chilled with ammonia or R-22, both of which can be toxic.

Leaks can sometimes go undetected, sending harmful gases into the air.

These can also require more energy to pump through the rink (though there are more cost-effective options like brine or glycol).

Opting for synthetic instead of refrigerated is the ultimate green approach to ice skating at home.

4. Natural Rinks Are Great, But You Can Save Water.

Okay, so you’ve decided to ditch the refrigerated rink and go for a natural rink instead.

Natural rinks use the elements to freeze water, starting at the “first freeze” during winter.

To make a natural rink, you’ll have to build a large frame, fill it with water and let the elements do their thing. 

While it’s a lot more energy efficient than a refrigerated rink, there is still a large amount of water needed to fill the rink.

The average American home of four uses about 260 gallons of ice water a day.

A standard ice rink can take about 10,000 gallons or more.

Switching to a synthetic ice rink can save gallons of water in filling and resurfacing your rink. 

 

 

5. Encourage Friends And Family To Skate On Your Home Rink.

If you have an at-home rink, nothing’s better than having fun with your family playing hockey or figure skating.

But you should also invite your friends!

Not only is it fun to build relationships and competition on the ice, but it’s also a great way to go green.

Rather than everyone going to separate rinks or using energy in their separate spaces, they can all save energy by skating on your rink instead.

6. Support Your Local Business For Equipment And Accessories

Whether you have a synthetic ice rink, refrigerated, or natural, you need more than ice to skate.

Do you have the proper ice skates?

If you’re playing hockey, you’ll need pucks, sticks, goals, and other training equipment.

Where do you get your stuff?

You can hop online and buy your stuff on Amazon, which can add to your carbon footprint.

Or you can support your local skate business!

Not only can you help your local business, but you can also get a little greener reducing the distance it takes to get your gear.

 

 

7. Consider recycling or donating old skates and equipment.

Recycling is one of the best ways to impact your environment.

According to Eco-Friendly Habits, “for every one ton of recycled paper, 17 trees, 2 barrels of oils, and 4,100 kilowatts of energy are saved.”

On the flip side, we produce millions of tonnes of plastic waste each year.

If you have used skates or equipment, you can find ways to recycle or reuse your equipment.

Or maybe you’ve outgrown your gently used gear. 

Start by looking for organizations that take sports equipment donations.

Or you can find ways to recycle or dispose of your gear sustainably. T

ake things a step further and gather used equipment from your friends and teammates that you can donate to others that need your help.

8. Use Green Or Energy-Saving Techniques When Maintaining Your Gear.

Taking care of your gear is another essential part of being a skater.

You’ll have hockey clothing, figure skates, and other pieces of equipment.

You can find simple ways to go greener while taking care of your gear. Use an energy-efficient washer and dryer. Clean your gear with organic cleaning products.

If you need to resurface your synthetic ice rink, you can use our non-toxic, environmentally safe slip surface conditioner.

These are simple ways to stay green and clean!

9. Save Time, Energy, And Money By Investing In A Skate Sharpener.

Sharpening your skates is a critical part of skating.

You’ll need to keep them sharp, especially when you’re using synthetic ice.

To do so will take you time and energy to head over to your local shop.

Over time, sharpening your skates can add up.

If you’re skating several times a week, consider investing in your own home sharpener.

It seems like a small step, but it can help you be just a bit greener.

 

 

10. Support Sustainable Skating Equipment And Brands

Finally, you can do your part by investing in sustainable, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly products.

For instance, some brands don’t involve animal skin or products in their materials.

You can also try hockey uniforms or figure staking uniforms that use sustainable materials or make sure to lower their carbon footprint.

Take the time to research and choose the brands that align with your choices. 

Conclusion

No matter what you do, there’s a way to make the Earth a better place.

We continue to use more power and plastics than we need and everything we do can have a long-term impact on the environment.

Some of the simple ways you can start is finding ways to recycle, reuse, save energy, and support those doing the same. 

One of the best ways ice skaters can do this is to opt for synthetic ice.

Synthetic ice saves significant energy compared to refrigerated ice and water compared to traditional rinks.

At Polyglide Ice, we could do our part, like providing non-toxic, environmentally friendly products to our customers.

You’ll also have the opportunity to skate longer throughout the year and invite others to your rink.

What are some of the ways you’ll stay green? 

Take a second and check out some of our most popular rink packages!

PolyGlide Ice - Home Ice Tiles

PolyGlide Ice - Pro-Glide Panels

 

Keep on Skating! 

Jim Loughran, PolyGlide Ice
www.polyglideice.com

 

Have you seen curling on TV and you're not sure what it is? It's an amazing sport that requires skill and critical thinking. Best of all, you can now enjoy it with your own home curling rink. Here's why you should take on the sport today.

Read more

Wouldn't it be great to be able to learn to become a great skater on your own home ice skating rink?

The Challenge of Excelling at Ice Skating 

We love ice skating in all its forms and creating a home skating enviornment with synthetic ice would certainly be ideal.

Skating these last few years, like everything else, has been a challenge.

You need to get your skates and gear and find a local ice skating rink to practice or play with your friends unless of course you have your own.

You could create the ultimate home environment into your own skating sanctuary with synthetic ice tiles. 

We’ll give you some fun tips on how you can "Bring the Rink Home". 

 

 

It’s Time to Improvise with Synthetic Ice Panels

What are synthetic ice panels?

These are specially made panels that imitate the feeling of ice.

Don’t be fooled.

Skating on synthetic ice is not akin to using your rollerblades.

You use your actual metal blades on a high-quality, ultra-dense, polyethylene material.

Synthetic ice panels have been around for several years.

In fact, it’s the same material that spaces like malls and hotels use to set up skating rinks for the holidays.

These panels are smaller and interlock so that you can skate on any flat surface.

That means you can take them home and get a little creative. 

Using Synthetic Ice Tiles at Home vs. Natural ice

A common question that arises is, “Why not create a DIY ice skating rink at home?”

Without a doubt, this is a great option.

In fact, with some elbow grease and a little creativity, you can create a large, natural ice rink that can last for years but it does have some drawbacks. 

If you decide to go with synthetic ice tiles instead, you get all the benefits with none of the hiccups.

For example:

Weather is Not a Problem

While natural rinks feel amazing, to create one, you need ideal conditions.

For instance, you must have a few consecutive days at a steady temperature for your rink to freeze.

That means time is of the essence.

Furthermore, you’ll need to shovel off snow, slush, and freezing rain.

Synthetic ice tiles aren’t dependent on the weather and can clean with a simple wipe or soft broom. 

You Save on Water and Other Materials

To create a natural ice rink, you need water. And lots of it.

You can spend a day filling your rink and several hundred gallons of water, with the hope that it freezes well.

You need to have a tarp for the weather, plywood boards, and poles to keep everything in place.

With synthetic ice, all you need is to purchase the number of tiles for your space and Rebounding Dasher Curbs to cordon it off with synthetic ice tiles.

These can be used for years to come without having to waste precious time and resources.

Easy to Set-up and Uninstall

Setting up a natural rink makes excellent use of your environment.

But it can be a task to set up and take it down.

You’ll need a little help with measuring, setting up the walls, and filling up the rink.

With synthetic ice tiles, you can set up by yourself with just a soft mallet to interlock the panels.

When you’re done, you can break it down and store it away (but who will want to do that when you can skate all year!).

It’s Safer for Your Kids

Most parents love that their kids are crazy for hockey. But playing at a local rink can bring some safety concerns.

Older kids could be a bit rough, and parents tend to worry about stray pucks flying everywhere.

By using your home environment, you have a more controlled space where they can have fun.

Furthermore, if you’re still a bit concerned about heading out due to the ongoing pandemic, you can safely skate at home in your own bubble. 

A Great Way to Release Some Energy

If the kids have a little energy to burn, they can put on their skates and have some fun!

Ice skating, figure skating, and hockey are great ways to burn off some energy.

And if you want a way to stay in shape, you can get a great workout on your synthetic ice skating rink.  

 

 

You’ll Get Better at Skating

The more hours you put in something, the better you get at it.

Ice skating is no exception.

If you or your kids want to get an edge on the competition, having space to practice will quickly improve your speed, strength, and stickhandling skills.

While everyone is resting, you’ll be working.

How to Take Advantage of Your Environment

Now it’s time to put on your thinking cap and see how you can make the most of your surroundings.

Opting for your own synthetic ice skating rink gives you the advantage of setting up almost anywhere.

Make sure to measure your space so you have the necessary tiles for your area.

For uneven surfaces, you’ll need additional plywood to have a smoother skate.

Here are some ways to make the most of your space.

 

 

1. Set-up a Backyard Ice Skating Rink

This is one of our favorite locations to set up a rink.

People often use their backyards for natural, DIY ice skating rinks because they’re spacious.

We love space when it comes to skating though you really don't need a lot!

With as little as 200 square feet, you can set up a space for hockey training or a manageable enough rink to practice figure skating.

You can go larger if you have older kids or have practice matches.

Having a level surface is critical, so check grassy areas and use plywood if needed to keep things even.  

 2. Use Your Driveway

Sometimes, all you have is your driveway!

Park the cars in the street or the garage and get your tiles down to start skating.

You’ll have significantly less space compared to the back yard.

However, you can still get a nice sized rink if you have a large area.

You can even get creative and use your front lawn!

3. Skate on Your Deck

Decks are flat surfaces created outdoors and connected to your house.

They are usually made of high-quality wood and elevated from the floor on concrete or wooden pillars.

Decks are great for lounging in the summer but can double as your skating rink all year round!

Decks are some of the best places for an ice skating rink since they are usually large spaces with level floors.

All you’ll need to do is set up your rink based on the dimensions of your deck.

4. Garage Ice Arena

Probably one of the most popular spaces for a home ice skating rink is right where you park your car (or store all your possesions....the Garage! 

It's the ideal location that provides the nesessary space just enough to practice your edge work while away from the riink AND stay warm! 

The great thing about synthteic ice is that the polymer plastic is strong enough to park your car on it with no damage to the surface.

Just remember to cover your rink first to prevent dirt, oils and debris from mucking-up your rink.

 

5. Sport Court Conversion

If you have a backyard basketball court or tennis court, you can quickly convert it into your rink for the holidays and beyond.

Since these have flat surfaces, you can easily place multiple tiles in any shape you like so you or your family can start skating.

To have the best of both worlds, you can invest in a pad or covering where you can still play basketball or tennis while having your rink in place. 

6. Turn Swimming into Skating

Earlier this year, our friends at the Faze Clan mansion took our tiles and created a skating runway around their pool.

That gave us an idea.

Why not cover your pool in ice! During the cold months, swimming will be at a minimum.

It’s a great way to use the space by installing a synthetic ice rink.

If the pool is shallow, you can drain it and install the rink on the pool floor.

This can save you money on energy and water!

Place a sub-layer of foam or board to protect the floor of the pool.

You can go over the pool, but this may be a bit more difficult.

You’ll need to create a sturdy structure to hold everyone safely before placing the skating panels.

Speak with a contractor or structural engineer for this option. 

 

 

 7. Take it to the Roof

Sometimes we don’t have space in our environment to create large rinks.

Some people live in apartment complexes or other living arrangements where space is a premium.

Why not take advantage of the space on the top floor?

Set up a synthetic ice rink on the rooftop area away from the ledge.

It will feel fantastic skating closer to the clouds, or even under the stars!

Conclusion

If skating is as important to you as it is to us, it makes sense to make the most of your environment.

Using synthetic ice tiles, you have the versatility to set up almost everywhere while still having a skating experience comparable to real ice.

From your deck, pool, and even the street, you and your family can have fun skating again!

If you need advice on measurements and set up or need special pricing, don’t hesitate to contact us today!