Ice rinks have been around for over 150 years.

Millions of people continue to enjoy ice skating for winter sports or just plain having fun!

Over the years, the rinks have evolved from large public rinks to versatile, at-home rinks.

Today, more and more people are interested in setting up ice rinks for hockey training, figure skating, or simply as a great form of exercise.

There are three types of rinks you can set up in your home or business space:

• Refrigerated Rinks
• Natural Ice Rinks
• Artificial Ice Rinks

Each has its pros and cons.

But when it comes to a “greener approach,” which one is better for the environment?

Everyone wants the world to be a cleaner, better place.

That won’t come from sweeping changes but the little things we do every day, from how we consume energy to the materials we use in our daily lives. 

Something as simple as choosing the suitable rink for the environment can improve your carbon footprint, save you energy and time.

If you’re about to set up an ice rink or you want to set one up during the following winter, here’s the impact it will have from a “green” standpoint.

 

 

Natural Ice Rink

The first ice rinks were frozen lakes and ponds.

At a specific temperature, the pool of water freezes and is safe for skating.

That concept translated to at-home skating rinks, which became popular in Canada and Europe, eventually translating to northern parts of the United States.

During the winter, you could fill a space with water and let the weather do its job. 

Creating an ice rink takes just a few simple steps.

You’ll need a level backyard or large space.

From there, you’ll need strong plywood boards to create the walls of the rink and a tarp for the water.

When everything is set, the area is filled with water until it’s ready.

You would, of course, need to time this with the weather, namely the first sign of freezing (the first freeze).

When the water freezes, you smooth off the top with water, and you’re ready for skating.

Natural ice rinks have the advantage of getting natural ice, of almost any size, at a relatively low cost.

However, the ice lasts as long as the temperature stays consistent. 

Your Natural Rink and an Environmental Footprint

Are natural rinks better for the environment?

Natural rinks use no electricity, except lighting for late-night skating.

Natural rinks may impact the environment or may not be a “green” approach by its water usage. 

Filling a standard size ice rink can take up to 10,000 gallons of water, increasing the size of the rink.

You’ll need more warm water over the months to resurface your rink if rain or snow settles on top.

For that period, the cost of the rink feels like the cost of the water bill.

But since clean water is a finite and scarce resource, it can be costly for the environment. 

When deciding on your natural rink, take this into account. Is there any way you can save water?

Can you store up water naturally over the hot months to use at the end of the year?

Can we use recycled wood or sustainably sourced materials instead?

Natural rinks are excellent, and we’ve set up our fair share over the years.

When we find eco-friendly alternatives, we’ll be doing our part for the environment.

 

What’s a Refrigerated Rink?

Between 1882 and 1892, the first recorded refrigerated rinks were constructed in Germany.

As the name suggests, the rinks use refrigeration to keep the water at a consistent temperature.

Refrigerated rinks make up most community rinks, private rinks, and public rinks that pop up during the Holidays.

Because of the advancement in refrigeration technology, you can even install a small rink in your home or small business. 

Like the natural rink, you’ll have to set up an ample space for your ice rink, complete with watertight walls and a lining. Instead of water, you’ll first need ice rink mats.

These mats contain narrow pipes that will carry the coolant (glycol, brine, or ammonia, for instance) to and from a chiller and compressor.

The refrigeration machine keeps the water at a consistent temperature, constantly removing heat from the surface.

Once everything is in place and the coolant is at the right temperate, water is added to the top to make the ice. 

Refrigerated ice rinks are fantastic for large families, communities or neighborhoods.

Everyone can come together and skate on natural ice.

It will also last a month or two longer than a natural rink.

While there are many moving parts, anyone who has a refrigerated rink says it’s worth the effort. 

Refrigerated Rink and Your Energy Footprint

These rinks have incredible benefits, but from an environmentally conscious standpoint, there are some drawbacks.

Energy consumption is the biggest red flag.

Over the years, refrigerated ice companies have made massive strides in energy-efficient systems.

However, there is still a significant amount needed to keep the rink operational.

Some use 100 amps per 2000 sq ft, which can add up over time.

You’ll also need more gallons of water and regular maintenance.

Like your refrigerator, you’ll need to decide if to keep the chiller on when it is not in use.

When you’re setting up the rink, make sure to keep energy consumption in mind.

Speak with the supplier about your concerns.

A simple way to protect the environment is to opt for a glycol coolant instead of ammonia, as ammonia can be toxic if leaked. 

 

 

All About Your Artificial Ice Rink

Both natural and refrigerated rinks have pros and cons.

A common thread is that both allow you to skate on natural ice.

However, you don’t need natural ice for skating, especially at home.

With artificial ice, you get all the advantages of skating with none of the hassles. 

Artifical ice panels are made from a special infused polyethylene polymer that can be used for skating.

We can trace the first artificial ice panels to more than 30 years ago.

Today, the technology behind artificial ice makes it close to the real thing.

On the best synthetic ice, most skaters should feel a 10% coefficient of friction.

Athletes actually enjoy the added friction for training as it makes them faster and stronger when it’s time to compete on natural ice. 

The biggest appeal to artificial ice comes from its versatility.

You can have the tiles cut to almost any size, and they can interlock like puzzle pieces, making them easy to move and store.

It’s more accessible, and of course, since it’s not natural ice, you can use it at any time during the year.

While it’s not entirely natural ice, you barely feel the difference, especially if you take good care of it.

The Synthetic Ice Solution

Today, many synthetic ice panels, like ours, are made with non-toxic, environmentally friendly materials AND ARE RECYCABLE!

More importantly, an artificial ice rink lasts at least ten years with the proper care. In the long run, you’ll save significant energy and water.

Imagine the expense and carbon footprint of running a refrigerated ice rink for ten years when you only have to purchase your synthetic tiles once. 

That does not mean there are no drawbacks.

Synthetic ice tiles made with harmful chemicals and materials do exist.

Make sure to research the provider and ask about environmentally friendly panels and accessories like resurfacing liquids. 

Conclusion

There are pros and cons to each selection.

Natural ice rinks can use a significant amount of water which is then disposed of at the end of winter.

Refrigerated rinks use water, energy, and potentially harmful chemicals as coolants, while some synthetic ice tiles can have toxic materials. 

In the end, choose the one that has the least amount of impact on the environment.

If there are ways you can minimize your carbon footprint, don’t hesitate to ask!

Synthetic ice tiles are the best choice if you only need a small rink (for instance, a driveway, spare room, or deck).

For a larger space, natural ice rinks hold the advantage but remember their limitations.

Synthetic ice panels also come in panels large enough to cover massive areas, so you can consider those as an option as well.

At Polyglide Ice, we’re committed to providing non-toxic, environmentally friendly tiles, training aids, and accessories.

We construct our panels with the highest degree of quality, giving you a long-lasting, smooth skating experience.

CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO DEMO: https://youtu.be/gRxfNcntwU4

PolyGlide Ice provides the ultimate advantage in your quest to save energy, water and be “green” for a brighter, healthier planet!. 

Keep on Skating!! - Jim Loughran

 

 

Ice skating is a fun and enjoyable winter activity, but it is important to take care of your ice skate blades in order to ensure that you have the best possible experience every time you hit the ice.

If you're like most ice skaters, you want your skate blades to stay sharp throughout the year with limited signs of wear on the blade profile or boot.

Dull blades can impact your overall performance and to a certain degree actually be dangerous.

This is why we would like to highlight some good practices and habits that you should use to make sure your ice skates stay in the best shape all year long! 

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While You're At It, Try Our At Home Synthetic Ice And Get In Your Edge Work!

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 In this article post, we will discuss the seven best ways that you can protect your ice skate blades throughout the season which can kind of serve as your checklist and become part of you regular "preventive maintenance program".

A little bit of preventative care now will save you from having expensive repairs down the road!

But first:

Disclaimer

Ice skate blades are razor sharp and should only be handled and maintained by a qualified adult that is schooled in blade maintenance. Children or inexperienced adults should NOT be relied on to  perform any type of skate blade maintenance as they could be seriously injured if the skates are not properly handled. 

Understanding Your Edges

For any skater, having a properly maintained skate blade edge is critical for them to perform at a high level and grip the ice.

Skate blade edges are impacted with every skating maneuver and are ever so slightly worn down with every inside and outside movement during workouts and skating elements.

This is important to keep in mind in when training and working on different drills as you get to understand how each movement directly impacts your edges.

Edges that are frequently worn on the same side can sometimes bring to light a skating flaw, bad habit or weakness that needs to be addressed or worked on.

So make it a point to "Read Your Edges" and get to know them a little better as probably the most important gear in your bag!

Skate Blade Maintenance

Skate Guards 

The name says it all as the purpose of your Skate Guards are to protect your skates blades from damage while walking.

Skate guards are in no way a permanent cover to be used while storing your skates (we'll get into that later).

Think of your skate guards as "foot / travel guards" to help you get from "Point A" (the ice) to "Point B" (your skate, hockey bag or home storage).

Storing your skates with the skate guards on will trap moisture which will damage and rust the blade over time.

Be sure to check your skate guards from time to time and replace them if they show any signs of wear or cracking.

Dryness

One way to protect your ice skate blades is to always dry them off after skating as this will help prevent rust and corrosion from setting in.

Simply take a dry rag or microfiber cloth and carefully wipe down the blade until it's completely dry.

If by chance you don't have a rag or cloth simply use a paper towel or keep and extra pair of socks in your bag to wipe down your blades.

Remember, metal blades will corrode at a high rate if exposed to humid conditions for a prolonged period of time so this is a very critical first step in properly maintaining your blades.

 

Skate Inspection

This is now the perfect time to inspect your ice skate blades after they have been completely dried-off.

First examine both the inside and outside edges to make sure that the blades are not chipped or damaged in any way.

If you notice any such damage, you will need to get your ice skate blades professionally sharpened before hitting the ice again.

The next thing you will need to check your edges to make sure they are level and don't favor one side or the other.

This can vary after every time you skate depending on what type of drills or skills you were working on or what skating habits you have developed, good or bad.

For instance, if you favor turning or stopping towards the right then your left inside edge and right outside edge may wear quicker each time you practice.

If you want to check your blades with the naked eye it's quite hard though laying a flat coin across the edges can help train your eyes until you get good at it.

Investing in an edge checker and keeping it in your bag is a great way to insure you stay on top of your edges (pun intended) after every workout.

Hand Stone 

Think of your ice skate blades as an expensive pair of knives, (which is really what they are) and running a hand stone across the flat side of your ice skate blades will help remove any unwanted burrs or small nicks.

Typically, after every sharpening your skate technician will perform this procedure once the skate is removed from the sharpener.

In the meantime, keep a stone in your bag as it's also a good habit to get into between sharpenings as this will not in any way dull your blades and only help hold your edge that much longer.

Once you've honed your edges be sure to wipe them down once again to remove any debris from the hand stone.

Blade Wax & Conditioner

Skate sharpening wax or blade conditioner adds another layer of protection by coating your blades with oil agents that will help prevent rust.

Simply apply a thin coat to both of your skate blades before preparing your skates for storage.

These are all good habits that will help you better understand the importance of blade maintenance and if done properly on a regular basis will in the end help the skaters overall performance.

Your ice skate blades don't have to wait to reach the technician to be shown a little "love" in between sharpening's.

Think of the Skater, Athlete or Parent as the "Skate Keeper" in between games or performances and you'll be sure to get the most out of every pair of blades.

Storage

Before placing your skates in your bag for travel be sure to wrap them in a Terry Cloth sport towel to keep them dry until you get them home.

Once home, take them out of the bag and into open air to help thoroughly dry them out.

Skate wall hangers or hooks are relatively inexpensive and work great in helping you air out your skates.

Be sure to pull back the skate tongue far enough to help air flow into the boot while in storage.

You can also help speed-up the process with a hair dryer or dryer rack if you're between games or events and don't like the feel of lacing-up into a damp pair of skates.

Sharpening

Now it's time for maintenance and to get your skate blades sharpened and if by now you don't have a favorite skate tech to rely on ask around to see who your friends or teammates may be using.

Skaters and hockey players are always very particular and superstitious when it comes to who handles their skates for sharpening and profiling.

Everyone is different and has their own personal preferences and opinions when it comes to sharpening their ice skates.

This goes to show you just how much of an important aspect of your game or performance your skates provide.

 

 

Some skaters love an extra sharp pair of skates while others can go weeks on a dull pair and are totally happy.

It's important for each skater to communicate their preferences to the skate tech and develop that relationship of trust that they will provide a well profiled, sharp skate with each pass of the grinder!

Click here to sharpen your own skates: SPARX SKATE SHARPENER

 

Side Note: Synthetic Ice Skate Blade Tip

Here's just a quick tip we have received from customer feedback over the years with regards to the skate blade "hollow" preference for when you plan on skating on synthetic ice.

For those who don't know, the skate blade "Hollow" is the cavity at the bottom of your skate blade between the outside and inside edges on both blades.

Most techs provide a rounded-out hollow cut while others go with the "Flat Bottom V" method depending on the skater's preference.

Many skaters with the rounded hollow have shown a preference for a deeper hollow when skating on synthetic ice that seems to hold their edges a little longer between sharpenings.

For example, if you currently skate with a 1/2" hollow on your blade you may want to opt for a deeper 3/8" hollow if you own or will be skating on a synthetic ice surface.

If this is the case we recommend keeping a separate set of skates for your synthetic ice training and keeping your "gamers" or "performance" set ready for natural ice.

Conclusion

When it comes to ice skating, having well-maintained blades is key to maximizing your potential with well kept gear.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, getting in the habit of taking proper care of your ice skates is vital in making sure you get the results you deserve from all the hard work and training you do in becoming a better skater or athlete.

Performing on ice skates as an Skater or Hockey Player requires a high level of skill developed through many years of practice and it's imperative that your skates are always up to the challenge!

We briefly reviewed these 7 steps throughout this article and recommend that you take the time to continue researching each step to become the ideal "Skate-Keeper" we know you can be!

Keep on Skating!!

 

 

Ice skating and all it's sports (hockey, figure skating, curling) are popular in Canada and the northernmost states in the US.

However, as we head south, ice sports are less accessible.

Local ice arenas are few and far between, and backyard ice rinks are pretty much nonexistent.

But now, we're happy to report, the days when ice skating was only available to the masses throughout the winter months has come to an end.

Thanks to advancements in synthetic ice plastics, skaters of all ages and levels can practice and play at their own leisure....in any region, warm or cold.

The King In The North

The local ice arena was typically the only option for anyone that wanted a leisurely skate at a moment’s notice.

Years ago, you needed to live in the Northern Hemisphere and wait for the pond to freeze over with each passing winter.

Yes, in Canada, ice skating - and snow sports, in general - is king.

Finding a space to skate is easy at almost any time of the year.

There are a few reasons why.

An Ice Skating Climate

Climate is the first obvious reason.

Canada is notably colder and has longer winters.

Yes, officially the winter season starts mid-December until mid-March.

However, Canadians start to experience freezing temperatures as early as October and as late as April.

As you head further North, cold temperatures can last even longer.

That means Canadians have the perfect climate for frozen ponds, backyard rinks, and everything in between.

 

The Origins of Rinks (and Ice Hockey)

We have Canada to thank for the original concept of an ice rink.

The earliest introduction of ice skating in the Northern Hemisphere came in the 1800s.

From there, the first outdoor rink in a defined space appeared in Montreal in 1850.

Some 12 years later, Canada created the first-ever indoor rink, the Victoria Skating Rink.

Soon, the first indoor hockey game was a nine-on-nine game with a wooden disc.

These events led to a groundswell of rinks, skating, and all things ice, which quickly spread to the United States.

While field hockey has been around hundreds of years before, they were willing to push the bar, responsible for many of the rules and leagues popular today.

 

A Skating Culture

Ice skating is embedded in the very fabric of Canada.

Hockey is their national winter sport.

Canada also has over 7800 ice rinks, by far the most in any country.

Some of the most famous ice skaters, hockey players, and curling teams are from up North.

Canadians are protective and fanatic about their winter sports, leading to fierce rivalries with opponents like the USA and other Nations.

You can’t help but marvel at their devotion to sport, especially around Christmas time.

Skating in Canada has no doubt impacted the USA over the decades.

As we cross the border, there's lots of skating activity in states with particularly long, cold winters.

Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin come to mind.

However, that does not mean that more populated states like Michigan, Massachusetts, and New York lack a skating culture.

It is alive and well.

In fact, some of the most successful hockey teams and figure skaters come from urban cities and states.

However, more and more skaters that want to pursue the sport full-time find themselves moving to spaces and countries that can better facilitate their progress.

The Benefits of Ice Skating

So what’s the big deal about skating?

And why do we love it so much?

There’s an exhilarating feeling you get from lacing up those skates and gliding across the ice, for starters.

The speed feels fantastic.

And the creativity you develop with skating is invaluable.

It’s a way to release your stress, calm your mind and enjoy the movement.

Or it’s a way to focus your mind and get an edge on your competition.

It’s a Great Workout.

Ice skating is a great form of exercise.

The stress relief comes from endorphins that we release from physical activity.

But we also burn calories.

An hour of ice skating can burn up to 650 calories.

For kids with fast metabolisms, this may not matter.

For adults looking to stay in shape, it’s a fun way to shed those extra pounds.

Balance and Coordination

Falling is a part of ice skating, but not for long.

The more you practice, the better and stronger you get.

Ice skating targets your lower body, helping you build those hamstrings, quads, and glutes.

The strength and power translate to better balance and coordination.

Both on the ice and off it.

Kids and Sports

Tens of thousands of kids compete in ice hockey or enjoy figure skating.

It’s a great sport to start if you have access to a rink or it’s colder in your neck of the woods.

But that does not mean your kids can’t enjoy it if you live further south.

You can start teaching your kids to skate as early as five years old, then see which level or sport they gravitate to most.

Build Your Community

Once you start to skate, you’ll find other skaters and create your own skating network.

It could be as simple as your neighbors coming over to try an outdoor rink or a neighborhood hockey tournament at a local rink.

The skating community is close-knit, helping each other to become better ice skaters, figure skaters, and hockey players.

How the Warm Climate States Can Ice Skate

As we head south, the weather heats up, and the ice melts.

The winter months are shorter, especially on the West coast.

There are fewer opportunities to ice skate as there are fewer available rinks.

This interesting graph shows how Southern states like Kansas, Arkansas, Georgia, and Louisiana, have less than five ice rinks.

 

 

Compared to the millions of people in each state, they won’t be able to meet any growing demands.

It is understandable.

Indoor ice rinks take hundreds of thousands of dollars to develop and are expensive to maintain.

Decision-makers and business owners will want a return on investment, but they may be missing the bigger picture.

There are skaters in these states with no facilities!

So how do we resolve this problem that continues to get worse?

Ice Developments

People wonder why winter sports like Ice Hockey, Figure Skating and Curling become so popular every four years during the Olympic Games.

The reason I would say is partly that to grow the game, you need the ice that comes with it, and to make it yourself would cost a LOT of money.

Until now.

The Introduction of Synthetic Ice

Times have certainly changed with the development of new synthetic ice plastics that are portable and easy to assemble to create your own artificial ice rink virtually anywhere.

Over the years, the polymer industry has made huge strides in creating hardened plastics that have changed the way we live.

Plastics manufactured today are durable enough for knee and hip replacements.

They are also resistant enough to handle the wear and tear of ice skating on a flat sheet….and yes, to top it off these plastics are.....RECYCABLE!!!

Today there are hundreds of synthetic ice rinks large and small across the country that require zero energy to operate.

The advancement of the polyethylene material and the technology behind it allow manufacturers to profile the panels to interlock seamlessly.

Now, you can have a miniature-sized rink in your garage, spare room, or driveway.

If that’s not big enough, you can install a large backyard synthetic ice rink.

The big difference between today's synthetic ice plastics and those from the early days is what actually makes the surface slippery.

In the early days, most surfaces were simply a large white cutting board with oils applied (yes, I said oils) to make it slippery enough to skate on.

That would be ideal today if you wanted to slice up a nice salad with your skates, but it probably wouldn’t be the best option for ice skating.

Today’s newer polymer plastics have become denser and abrasive-resistant, while surface glide enhancers designed just for synthetic ice have also developed along the way.

Slippery Solutions

The biggest development has been in the manufacturing process, where plastic ice is now being designed solely for the purpose of ice skating.

The introduction of “slip agents” during manufacturing actually makes the plastic slippery enough not to require surface enhancers.

Without getting too technical, this development creates way less surface friction and makes it feel like you’re on natural ice and the overall experience much more pleasurable.

It also creates more options for those who have always wanted to try ice skating, but it was never an option.

 

Other Benefits of Synthetic Ice

Enjoying the benefits of ice skating in a warmer state is just the start.

There are other benefits of going synthetic.

• Ice Skate 24/7 -  Backyard ice rinks and frozen ponds need freezing temperatures.Once the ice melts, so do the rinks.
• Extra Practice - With synthetic ice, you can practice figure skating or hockey throughout the year to gain an edge on the competition.
• Easy Installation - It's also relatively easy to install and maintain. Large synthetic ice rinks need just a couple of hours to set up. In-home kits only need a few minutes.
• Long Lifespan - On average, synthetic ice rinks can easily last 10+ years with careful maintenance and cleanings.
• Positive Friction - The surface does have slightly more friction than natural ice which makes it the perfect "ice simulator" for those looking to become stronger skaters and athletes.
• Cost Savings - Best of all, synthetic ice rinks cost less over time. It’s one initial investment that keeps on giving for years. With ice rinks, you’ll need to rebuild every year, expending time and resources. Refrigerated rinks can also be built at home however, the compressors and refrigeration system can cost thousands of dollars. Even then, it can only be used for 1-2 months outside of winter.

Setting Up Your Ice Rink in the South

When you’re ready to set up your rink, you just need to follow a few steps:

• Rink Location - Is it your backyard? Deck? Garage? The site determines how many panels you’ll need and other equipment like dasher boards, lights, etc.
• Measure - You don’t want to have a rough estimate and have to repurchase more ice panels. Most companies have standard dimensions for their ice. For instance, our PolyGlide Ice Starter Kit comes with 4 - 1/4" X 24" X 48" tiles, measuring 32 square feet. Our larger infused Pro-Glide panels can be as much as 1/2" thick X 46" X 92. Once you calculate your area, you’ll know exactly how many tiles or panels you’ll need for a rink.
• Flatness - An uneven ground leads to an uneven skate. If the ground is uneven, simply create a pressure treated box frame with OSB plywood (shed deck) and install your synthteic ice on top.
• Installation - Place your tiles in your designated space. A heavy rubber mallet (ideally 2lbs.) is all you need to connect the interlocking dovetailed connections.

And that’s it!

Larger panels are heavy and must be freight shipped to you so you’ll need some friends to help you install your rink, otherwise, it’s a simple installation process.

Conclusion

Growing up, I always remembered looking through the old NHL team Media  Guides at some of my favorite hockey players, and at the bottom of the page where it said “Birthplace,” they all said “CANADA.”

Times have certainly changed over the years as the sport of hockey and figure skating continues to grow in the South and warmer climate areas.

With the introduction of these new synthetic ice surfaces, backyard rinks can be set up year-round, allowing more great skaters and players to hone their skills.

You no longer have to head up north to enjoy the ice or spend hours commuting to the only rink in the state.

Synthetic ice brings ice skating right to our doorstep.

With the development of synthetic ice plastics, you can look for these sports to continue growing and developing more players and skaters that may come from some of the most unrecognizable zip codes.

 

 

According to a Snowsports Industries America (SIA) report in 2019-2020, over 25 million Americans (ages six and above) participated in winter sports.

These include sports like snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing.

Winter sports involving lots of snow are alive and well.   

But what about sports on the hard ice like figure skating, speed skating, and hockey?

These require metal skates and gliding across that smooth, flat surface at different speeds.   

So far, the figures are in slight decline.

A Statista report showed a slight decline in skating participation.

Statistics also show slight declines in viewership of hockey.

Figure skating has also declined in participation and viewership in recent years, until recently.   

Pardon the pun, but it sometimes feels like skating is on thin ice.   

There must be a reason for these wobbly figures.

As we will mention later, the SIA report shows that factors like cost and accessibility are still an issue.

However, we have seen that synthetic ice skating is changing how we can participate in these sports.   

In the near future, synthetic ice can give these sports the boost they need. 

So what is synthetic ice?

And what are the ways it can revolutionize sports like hockey and figure skating?  

Is Synthetic Ice Good for Skating?  

Synthetic ice skating is the best-kept secret in winter sports.

It allows ice skating with your metal skates on a special surface.

Synthetic ice is made with polyethylene, a compound used in thousands of plastic products today.   

The polyethylene has special edges that connect like puzzle pieces to create a large surface area for skating.

The first synthetic ice panels using polyethylene appeared over three decades ago.

Skating on these surfaces required a special compound to be slathered on the surface beforehand.

Even then, the quality of skating was about 60% compared to the real thing.  

Today, these panels' manufacturing, science, and technology have improved significantly.

Panels are more durable and easier to skate.

The compound that helps with skating comes infused into the materials.

Now, it feels close to the real thing.   

Thousands of ice skaters worldwide skate on synthetic ice panels via commercial rinks or backyard rinks.

However, synthetic ice skating is just scratching the surface regarding its applications.

As technology and acceptance improve, synthetic ice skating will be more involved in winter sports.    

We're bullish on these eight ways it will revolutionize winter skating in the next decade.   

1. Training on Synthetic Ice Will Become Commonplace  

Accessibility is a big obstacle to hockey and figure skating.

The picture above shows the available rinks by the state since 2014.

States like Tennessee, Kentucky, Kansas, and West Virginia have less than 10 rinks that serve over 800,000 per capita, on average.   

That means athletes of all levels in these states have trouble securing ice time so they can practice.

The deeper you get into these sports, the more time you'll need on the rink.

Practicing just once weekly means it will take twice as long to catch up to your competitors.  

Synthetic ice-skating spaces strictly for training will become more commonplace in the future.

These will be warehouses, event spaces, and other medium-to-large locations.

Skaters will hone their skills here before heading to larger rinks to compete.   

We'll also see professional teams creating training grounds made of synthetic ice.

Some may even travel with ice to games!

Of course, thousands of skaters already use panels in their homes, garages, and even driveways.   

Soon, it will be the go-to training aid for figure skating and hockey.   

2. Professional Sports Will Adopt Synthetic ice  

Astroturf, a synthetic alternative to grass, was first used in the NFL in the early 1960s.

It had its detractors, but it was the sign of things to come.

Soon, more teams adopted it, culminating with 'The Greatest Show On Turf, 'the 1999 St. Louis Rams.    

Today, fourteen NFL teams have artificial surfaces.

They are faster, easy to install, and easier to maintain.

You also don't have to worry about the natural growth of grass.

Artificial surfaces are becoming more like real grass, making their way into baseball, tennis, and other sports.  

But what about ice sports?

Synthetic surfaces will find their way into professional hockey.

In time, elite hockey will have its first artificial surface.

Like Astroturf, it is cheaper, easier to install and maintain.  

However, there is a concern about speed.  

Synthetic ice has a coefficient of friction, the resisting force that happens pressing two surfaces together.

With fresh, resurfaced ice, this is less than one percent.

Synthetic ice can be 10%, closer to heavily used ice.

As time goes on, synthetic ice will improve.  

Then, the first team that takes the leap can use the ice to their advantage.   

We may even see competitive figure skating on synthetic ice!

Both sports will birth faster, stronger athletes.  

3. Sports like Curling Will Rise in Popularity  

Curling has been around since the 16th century, but it only gets shone during the Winter Olympics.

The Roaring Game combines finesse, strategy, and skill like no other.

So if you wanted to get started with curling, where would you go?  

Curling rinks are hard to find, but you can create your own with synthetic ice.

Synthetic ice curling rinks use the same special polyethylene as synthteic ice skating rinks.

It is cut to the dimensions of a recreational or professional station.

You can have one in your home, or businesses like bars and arcades can install one for customers.

In addition, synthetic ice Curling will open the door to other ice sports like Broomball and Ringette.

4. Countries in Tropical Climates Will Compete in Winter Sports  

The Winter Sports Participation report revealed a surprising statistic.

Similar numbers participated in the South Atlantic regions compared to the Middle Atlantic and Pacific regions.

These figures may mean that winter enthusiasts traveled to other areas to enjoy sports.

Or it could imply that there is a demand for Winter Sports in warmer climates.   

As you head South, the warmer weather means shorter winters and less access to backyard rinks.

Therefore, competing in winter and skating sports in these regions isn't easy.

Synthetic ice opens the possibility of skating, training, and even competing in hockey and figure skating.   

Today, there are even synthetic ice rinks in Caribbean islands like Jamaica and Barbados.

We may see more competitors from unlikely places in the Winter Olympics in the future. 

5. It May Drop the Cost of Entry  

Winter sports have always suffered from accessibility and diversity.

For starters, statistics show that more than 50% of participants are at least college graduates with an income of at least $75,000.

They also participated several more times per year than those making 50% and less.

Travel, equipment, training, and access to rinks can cost thousands of dollars a year.

You may have the talent, but the sport is hard to maintain if you lack the resources.   

These figures go together with poor diversity.

Economic disparities are one of many reasons why people of color struggle to enter the sport.

Synthetic ice can increase access to skating rinks in communities with more commercial rinks and home rinks.

Communities can also construct and maintain rinks using synthetic ice.

The supply can reduce the demand, leading to easier barriers to entry.   

6. Backyard Rinks Help Grow the Minor Leagues

For skating lovers in the North, building a backyard rink is one of the best times of the year.

These rinks allow friends and neighbors to practice and even compete in ice sports like hockey.

Unfortunately, as you head South, you can't build backyard rinks.

If you can, they last for shorter periods thanks to changes in the weather.   

There has been a rise in synthetic backyard rinks.

You must measure your space and order the synthetic ice tiles.

If you are building a commercial rink, you need more durable panels.  

These synthetic rinks mean more hockey players, more skaters, and more competition.

Kids compete at all ages, but we predict a rise in smaller competitions and bush leagues in hockey, curling, and other ice sports.

More weekend warriors will go to different towns and states to compete.

Synthetic ice has an excellent opportunity to create a close-knit skating community.   

7. Skates and Equipment with Synthetic Ice in Mind  

Hockey players and figure skaters need different skates.

Boots come in assorted styles, fits, and price ranges.

Skaters also need to consider the type of blades based on their skill level.

Blades have a radius, which is the curve of the blade from front to back.

They also have a radius of hollow, a concave groove that runs down the middle of the blade (in other words, ice skate blades have two sides).   

Choosing the right blade depends on your speed and performance on natural ice.

But what about synthetic ice?

The goal has been to improve synthetic ice to feel close to the real thing.

Can we then try to change the blade to suit synthetic ice?  

In the future, manufacturers may design a perfect blade for synthetic ice.  

A common concern is synthetic ice dull blades.

Skaters do find they have to sharpen blades more often.  

The blade and boot could provide an experience closer to the real thing.

The perfect blade will need less sharpening and can improve speed and change of direction.  

Then, when the skater is ready, they can change out the blade to skate on real ice.

We will also begin to see synthetic ice products for hockey training, curling, etc. 

8. Professional Athletes Will Align with Synthetic Ice  

Synthetic ice goes beyond providing an alternative surface to skate.

It's a high-performing product that will last all year.

These rinks can also replace the hassle of internal refrigerated risks.

Running a refrigerated rink all year is expensive, hence the small number of available rinks.  

Rinks are also eco-friendly, saving water, electricity, and time.

These reasons will encourage athletes to work with synthetic ice manufacturers.

In addition, we will see more sponsorship and partnership deals with a commonplace product.

The more athletes endorse it, the more popular it grows.    

9. A Synthetic Ice-Sponsored Team? 

Team sponsorships are an important part of professional sports.

Recently, we've had the Staples Center renamed to Crypto Arena.

We've also seen professional sports like soccer and basketball add smaller sponsors to their uniforms. 

Will we see a synthetic ice major sponsor soon?

An arena fully outfitted by synthetic ice can adopt the name.

Or we may see minor sponsors on hockey t-shirts.

Synthetic ice companies can even sponsor Olympic figure skating teams! 

Sponsorship brings awareness.

The more eyes on the product, the higher the chances of new customers discovering the product.

It also positions synthetic ice as a major brand by leveraging another audience.  

Conclusion 

Synthetic ice has been around for decades and is here to stay.

As we get more accustomed to skating on this product, we will see its impact grow.

It is not far-fetched to see synthetic ice more prominent in professional hockey and ice skating.

In addition, its ease of installation, durability, and accessibility will further expose winter sports to hotter, tropical regions.    

The benefits of synthetic ice skating far exceed its risks.

Getting your synthetic ice-skating rink for your backyard and the spare room is an investment in the future.

Both kids and adults will enjoy skating for hours, practicing, and preparing for competition.  

Getting synthetic ice is a straightforward process.

Once you measure your space, we can help you decide on the best type of synthetic ice and the pricing.

In a brief period, you will have your ice!

First, decide on a location and check the surface for evenness before placing the ice.

If the surface is uneven, some sheets of wood can help.

Next, place the synthetic ice on top of the surface, connect the edges, and you're good to go.  

Once that is done, you will be miles ahead of your competition.

Your next step is to speak with PolyGlide ice for the best synthetic ice available.

 

 

 

How would you like to learn to play ice hockey without ice?

Wouldn't it be great to learn a sport that you have never experienced before?

Maybe your children are ready for something new that they never tried!

Ice hockey is an exciting, fast-moving game that can be addictive for anyone at any age!

Not only is it great exercise, but it's also super fun.

If you don't live near a rink, don't worry, you can still learn to play ice hockey without ever stepping on the ice... or should I say..."Natural Ice".

Whether you're a woman, man, child or parent looking for a new challenge, we've got you covered!

In this blog post, we'll show you how to learn all the basics of this exciting sport and have you lacing-up in no time!

So what are you waiting for?

Game Time

Ice hockey is a popular sport, but it can be challenging to learn if you don't live near a rink.

Even if you do, finding the ice time to practice the basic skills is hard to do when the only "open ice" is at crazy hours during the day or late in the evening.

If you're interested in learning how to ice skate and play hockey, the best first step is by attending a live hockey game.

Not only will you be able to see how the game is played firsthand, but you'll also be able to pick up on some of the rules and strategies.

Hockey is a fast-moving game, so it's helpful to have somebody explain what's going on as you watch.

That's why attending a game with friends or family who already know the game can be advantageous.

They can help point out key moments and share their own knowledge of the game with you.

While watching the game you may be thinking “wow, I could never do that”?

You may think hockey is too difficult or physical for you to play?

If so, you’re wrong!

Hockey is not as hard to learn as you think and in fact, can be a lot of fun.

All you need is some basic knowledge of the game and some practice.

 

Learn the Rules

Before hitting the ice, it is important to learn some of the basic rules of the game.

The object of the game is to outscore your opponent by shooting the puck into the opposition's net.

Both teams try to keep the puck away from their opponent while trying to set up plays and scoring chances at both ends of the ice.

To start, here's are a few basic things to remember:

• - There are three periods in an ice hockey game, each lasting 20 minutes.
• - The clock doesn't stop running during play, except for offsides, icing, penalties and the occasional fight.
• - There are six players on each team: three forwards, two defensemen, and one goalie.
• - The objective of the game is to score goals by shooting the puck into the other team's net.
• - Players can only touch the puck with their sticks--they can't use their hands or any other part of their bodies.

At the end of regulation time, if the score is tied, overtime periods are played until one team scores.

If you're new to ice hockey, the rules can seem daunting.

But don't worry--once you learn the basics, it's not so complicated.

Video Binge

One of the best ways to educate yourself on how to train to play the game is by "video-binging" on the subject.

You can find plenty of instructional videos online, and they can give you a good overview of the basic rules and skills involved in the game.

You'll be able to see firsthand how the players move on the ice, how they handle the puck, and what strategies they use to score goals.

By watching both instructional videos and live games, you'll quickly learn to play.

Also, the NHL website has a section called "NHL TV," which is full of videos about hockey.

You can also find hockey videos on YouTube.

Just type "hockey training" into the search bar, and you'll find tons of videos about how to play the game.

Body Armor and Equipment

Whether you're just starting out or you've been playing hockey for years, it's important to have the right equipment.

At a minimum, you'll need a hockey stick, skates, and a puck.

You may also want to consider protective gear, such as helmet, mouthguard, gloves and shin pads.

Hockey equipment can be expensive, so it's important to do your research and purchase items that will last.

A good hockey stick, for example, can cost upwards of $100, but it's an investment that will pay off in the long run.

When it comes to skates, it's important to find a pair that fits well and is comfortable to wear.

You'll be spending a lot of time on the ice, so it's important to make sure you are comfortable.

You can find all of this equipment at your local hockey store or online.

Make sure to buy good quality gear that will last you a long time.

Once you have all of your equipment, it's time to hit the ice!

 

Synthetic Ice

If you're interested in learning how to play ice hockey at home, one of the best ways to do so is with synthetic ice.

Synthetic ice mimics the properties of real ice, making it an ideal surface for practicing and developing your skills.

There are many benefits to using synthetic ice, including the fact that it is more affordable than real ice, it is easier to set up and take down, and it can be used indoors or outdoors.

It's available in multiple size rink packages that will fit any budget big or small!

Additionally, synthetic ice doesn't require a Zamboni or other maintenance equipment, which means you can practice anytime, anywhere.

Practice, Practice....Practice!

To excel at any sport you need to put in the time and work on the fundamentals.

As you go through each drill push yourself to the point of failure as this is the quickest way to develop each skill along the way.

Work on your skating skills and stick handling individually before combining the two during drills.

While working on your skating, spend some time practicing starts and stops, turns, and crossovers (forwards and backwards).

If you're working on stick handling, try different drills like passing and receiving passes, shooting pucks into an empty net and don't forget your backhand.

The key to advancing your skills is repetition....over-and-over again and then....do it again!

Get Creative

Hockey training can be a great way to improve your skills and have fun by being creative at the same time.

By focusing on specific areas of your game, you can make tangible progress that will help you on the ice.

Because hockey is such a fast-paced and exciting sport, intense high-rep training can be a great way to stay motivated and engaged.

There are a number of different skills you can work on though we suggest you try to recognize your weaknesses and put in the extra time at that skill to advance your overall game.

That means incorporating a variety of fun drills and activities that keep you engaged and excited about playing hockey.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• - Use cones or other markers to set up an obstacle course. As you skate through the course, work on your puck handling, shooting, and stickhandling skills.
• - Play mini games with friends or teammates. Games like 3v3 or 4v4 can help you work on game situations and decision making.
• - Take part in drills that focus on specific skills. For example, if you want to work on your shooting, set up a net and practice taking shots from different angles
• Put aside some reward time to try your hand at trick shots and record your growth along the way so you can look back to see how much better you've gotten.

But whether you're working on your shooting accuracy or your skating speed, it's you dedication to the sport that will reap the rewards!

So have fun and get started today!

Conclusion

If you want to learn how to play ice hockey wihout stepping foot on the ice, now you know you can make it happen!

All you need is a stick, puck and a synthetic ice starter kit!

It's never too late to learn to play and once you get started we know you'll be hooked!

Follow the simple steps we reviewed and put in the time and your game will improve more which each and every workout.

Plus, with the popularity of hockey growing each year, there are likely plenty of classes and clubs near you where you can get more specialized training.

So what are you waiting for?

Grab your gear and learn to play!