Info & Tips

Could a synthetic ice hockey rink be the next game-changing addition to your indoor sports complex?

Managing an indoor sports complex is a difficult task. 

You have to keep each court or field in top shape.

Revenue is top of mind, so you’re constantly looking for ways to enhance the complex’s appeal.

And you need to stay ahead of the competition.

The ability to play multiple sports is one of the best qualities of a sports complex.

We’re talking basketball, football, tennis, soccer, and much more. 

Sports complexes are appealing as versatile community hubs for recreational sports, training, competitions, and events. 

As expected of any competent manager, you have your finger on the pulse, and adding some ice sports may have come across your mind.

Ice hockey - and other associated sports like figure skating - is still as popular as ever.

You may have even got a request or two about a hockey rink. 

But there’s a problem.

The cost of building and managing a conventional ice rink is enough to pull your hair out. 

So let’s break down a viable alternative - synthetic ice - an innovative way to get the most of ice sports, attract new athletes, and round out your facility.

Have You Heard of Synthetic Ice Rinks?

Hockey and figure skating rinks can be built in 3 ways:

1. Using the cold winter temperatures, you can freeze a set body of water or build an enclosed space, fill it with water, and create a natural rink. 
2. Leverage the power of refrigeration. Almost all standard ice rinks operate this way. Large areas are kept at constant freezing temperatures with a coolant and mechanical refrigeration system.
3. Build a synthetic ice rink. 

The third option, synthetic ice, is the latest but perhaps the most innovative option. 

Synthetic ice is a unique, high-density polyethylene material that can be used for ice skating. 

Some tiles are pre-treated with a slip surface agent to reduce friction, while others require manual application of a slip surface conditioner. 

The synthetic ice is cut into tiles or panels with dovetail edges (think puzzle pieces) and installed similarly to laminate flooring. 

You connect the tiles or panels while placing them over a large surface area to build the hockey or figure skating surface.

Add rink walls and you have a completed hockey rink.

Synthetic ice rinks have been around for decades in amusement parks, malls, museums, and parking lots.

Recently, they’ve become more accessible due to Home Ice Starter Kits, showing up in backyards and garages across the country. 

Synthetic ice is quickly becoming the go-to option for commercial spaces like sports complexes. 

With a synthetic ice hockey rink, hockey players, figure skaters, and even recreational players get access to a playing surface.

Complex owners and managers also get a space with a host of benefits. 

Enjoy Cost-Effectiveness with Synthetic Ice Hockey Rinks

We know what’s stopping you from adding a hockey rink to your sports complex.

It’s in no way a cheap undertaking.

A refrigerated rink can cost well past six figures to install.

And you can pay thousands per month in personnel to manage and maintain the space. 

More importantly, you can’t guarantee you’ll get a large enough influx of new customers to justify the investment. 

Synthetic ice solves many of the concerns of installing a refrigerated rink.

The panels are more cost-effective than a conventional rink, allowing you to save tens of thousands in installation costs.

Furthermore, synthetic ice does not require continuous refrigeration or electrical power. You’ll save tens of thousands in utilities and maintenance costs.

The polyethylene is easy to clean and maintain, a task your current team can add to their plate without requiring specialized skills. 

With a synthetic ice rink, you can attract new customers at a competitive cost for years.

Year-Round Revenue Opportunities

 

Ice rinks, while popular, can be seasonal, with a higher demand around the winter months. 

During summer and fall, you will notice a significant drop in use.

Furthermore, the cost of keeping a refrigerated rink running that time adds up, contributing to a loss at a later date.

Climate change has also influenced popular indoor and outdoor hockey rinks, narrowing the window for public use. 

Synthetic ice rinks are not influenced by the weather or seasons.

They can remain active without adding to overall maintenance costs.

These rinks are also versatile, allowing for roller skating, sock skating, and other sporting activities throughout the year.

You’re only limited by your imagination.

Increase The Sports Complex’s Multi-Use Potential 

Adding a popular sport like ice hockey or figure skating at a fraction of the cost can increase the potential of your multi-sports complex.

The diverse offerings can create multiple streams of income through rentals, memberships, and events.

You can host company events including ice skating lessons or have a kids hockey programs for charity. 

A rink can become a focal point for community gatherings attracting a new group of ice sports enthusiasts. 

Rinks can attract event organizers looking for hockey, ice skating, or ice sports opportunities. 

In short, synthetic ice hockey rinks can increase an indoor sports complex’s revenue, versatility, and accessibility at a more cost-effective investment. 

Installing a Commercial Synthetic Ice Rink: The Basics

Installing a synthetic ice rink may be simpler than your conventional ice rink, but it’s no walk in the park.

You’ll need to start by earmarking the appropriate space and use. 

How many people or players can use it safely?

What sports can you play on the rink? What’s the budget?

Measure your space including rink walls, hockey dasher boards, benches, and recreational viewing areas for additional safety and accessibility. 

Enlist an engineer or specialist to ensure the future skating surface is level and moisture-free to avoid injuries or a poor skating experience.

Even flat surfaces should have a subfloor.

Install wood or a shock-absorbing underlayer for improved performance. 

Research your synthetic ice provider. 

Panels, like our PolyGlide ProGlide Panels, are best for commercial spaces as they are more durable than tiles and suitable for long-term skating. 

All that’s left to do is purchase, wait for delivery, and install the rink, which should take 1-2 days if all pieces are in place. 

Taking Your Sports Complex to the Next Level

There are some basic considerations and risks that come with any commercial rink:

• Get your staff up-to-date on the ice rink, maintenance, pricing, and the difference between real ice and synthetic ice. 
• Consider ice skate rentals for another income stream.
• Review and update liability insurance to cover ice skating. 
• Come up with multiple income streams and promotions for the year. 
• Reach out to local hockey clubs, figure skating coaches, and skating organizations.
• Panels can last for 10 years but durability can change with usage. Plan for proper disposal, recycling, and replacement of synthetic ice panels at end-of-life. 

Even with a synthetic ice rink, things can go wrong.

 It’s a commercial space, after all!

With the right planning, you eliminate risk, reduce installation costs, and start bringing in cash sooner.

Adding a synthetic ice hockey rink to your indoor sports complex opens a new offering and breathes new life into your space.

Hockey and ice skating are sports enjoyed by all ages.

A commercial rink in your sports complex delivers a diverse sporting facility that sets you apart from competitors.

If you have further questions, need synthetic ice equipment, or guidance on setting up your rink, reach out to us and trust our decades of ice experience to get you there.

You’re injured. And it sucks. 

Depending on the severity, an injury on the field or the ice can keep you on the sidelines for weeks or months (especially if you need surgery). 

That’s where sports physical therapy comes in.

Physical therapy (PT) is a tailored series of exercises and stretches that help you recover effectively. 

Depending on your injury and fitness levels, you’ll perform these exercises to strengthen the muscles around your injury, improve flexibility, and restore your range of motion. 

The goal is not only for you to heal but to return to your sport at peak performance. 

If you’re here, you’re looking for ways to improve your recovery. 

Or you’re a therapist looking to take things to the next level. 

Read on to learn about slide boards, one of the simplest, but most effective recovery tools today. 

Innovations in Physical Therapy

Physical therapy also includes techniques called modalities; activities that support healing and function.

Think of supporting devices, saunas, cold plunges, massage, cryotherapy, red light therapy, and electrical stimulation. 

Physiotherapists are always looking for ways to help patients recover faster and better.

It’s brought about a lot of innovation in physical therapy, including gamification, virtual reality, apps, and much more.  

In the modern physiotherapist’s office, you’ll find a new modality in slide boards. 

A slide board is one of the most effective, innovative tools for recovery, training, and performance, particularly in sports like hockey and ice skating.  

And if your therapist does not have one, you can get a Slip Slide Board with relative ease. 

What are Synthetic Ice Slide Boards?

Before discussing slide boards, let’s quickly look at the concept of synthetic ice.  

Synthetic ice is a high-density polyethylene polymer used for ice skating purposes.

The material is shaped into tiles or panels with edges that connect like puzzle pieces.

Connect enough of these panels on a flat surface, and you have an ice rink that does not need water or refrigeration technology. 

In other words, this is an innovative, versatile material you can use for ice skating with your metal blades, without a huge drop off in skating feel or experience.  

Synthetic ice has existed for decades, primarily in commercial rinks in malls, museums, and entertainment spaces. 

Advancements in the space have birthed the design of smaller, customizable tiles for home use. 

Soon came the birth of the slide board, a long, rectangular piece of synthetic ice (4-6ft long) with raised plastic or wood blocks at the short ends. 

The goal is to simulate the lateral movement and gliding motion of ice skating.

To use a slide board, the user places specialized booties or socks over their feet or shoes. 

That user can then glide from one end to the next, performing the standard ice skating biomechanics in a smooth movement.  

Performing the motion for even a few minutes can provide benefits at a fraction of the expended energy and force. 

The slideboard has become a popular tool in training, sports performance, and now, physical therapy.  

Slide Board Benefits

You may be thinking, why slide on this piece of plastic with socks?

Don’t worry about looking weird because the benefits are fantastic:

• Slide boards are one of the best low-impact exercises in existence. Recovering athletes and older adults need exercises that do not put excess pressure or force on the joints. Enter the slide board. 
• Slide boards provide an excellent cardiovascular workout that targets key muscle groups in the lower body.
• Consistent slide board use engages the inner and outer thighs, glutes, and core muscles, helping to improve strength and stability.
• You can emulate skating mechanics, helping you to become a more efficient skater.
• Slide boards help with coordination, reducing falls on the ice or daily life. 
• It’s a cost-effective, space-saving device for multiple exercises, replacing expensive equipment like ellipticals. 

A low-impact, versatile device like a slide board allows therapists to create customized rehabilitation programs that leverage the power of skating movements, which apply to almost any field.

Applications in Sports Physical Therapy

Picture this.

You’re a hockey or soccer player with an ACL sprain. 

The doc says you don’t need surgery, but you need 6-8 weeks on the sidelines to recover. 

You visit a physiotherapist for advice on healing. Studies back up the therapist’s claim that 

The first step is pain management - medication, rest, and icing your knee to prevent swelling. 

On your first visit, your physio creates a treatment plan to strengthen your knee again. 

With a slide board, you can start much sooner.

Along with some simple exercises, you’ll be placed on the slide board for at least 5 minutes, depending on injury severity and pain tolerance. 

Each week, the PT team will increase the duration and intensity of the regimen.

The strength and conditioning exercises will increase, incorporating exercise bands, medicine balls, and weights. 

You’ll notice your knee getting stronger, faster.

You’ll also notice that you can begin light training in your sport of choice, sooner. 

Slide Board Exercise Examples

The slide board can improve your lateral movement, stability, and balance, but it’s not limited to lower body injuries and rehabilitation. 

Here are a few ways you can use it for physical therapy and recovery:

1. The conventional skating movement - sliding the length of the board from one end to the other - targets the inner and outer thighs, glutes, and calves. 
2. Perform skating lunges. Start at one end and slide while bending the back leg, performing a lunge. There are variations like alternating side lunges and lunge runs, great for building muscular endurance. 
3. Mountain climbers. Hold one of the blocks and assume a pushup position with both feet on the slide board. Slide one foot up toward the chest, then the next foot in a smooth climbing motion.
4. Pike pushups can help with upper-body injuries like shoulder sprains. For pike pushups, hold on to one end of the slideboard in a plank position, then slide both feet forward without bending the knees. Return to the plank position to complete one rep. 
5. Conventional slide board pushups engage your core and train your upper body. Place the socks or booties on your hands instead of your feet. Slide one hand away from the body while performing a pushup, then return to the starting position. 

Your therapist will modify these exercises depending on your fitness level, injury, and the stage of your rehabilitation. 

Slide Board Therapy at Home

PT is an ongoing process.

Most of the work will happen at home or training on your own time.

The low-impact nature means your therapist will not be opposed to you continuing therapy at home.

You can continue your sports physical therapy with a slide board to maintain your progress and build on the benefits you’ve experienced. 

Set up specific times for a 10-15 minute routine.

Follow the advice of your physical therapist, focusing on proper form.  

Gradually increase duration and intensity based on your therapist’s advice.

Regardless of your injury, you can perform additional exercises on the slide board to target other parts of the body. 

Keep a log of your workouts, including exercises, duration, and any difficulties you’re experiencing, and communicate with your therapist accordingly.

After Your Physical Therapy

Sports physical therapy with slide boards is just the start.

Once you’ve recovered and are back to sports, you can continue to use your slide board.

It’s an excellent tool for strength, conditioning, and improving your athletic performance.

The benefits of slide board training are numerous.

If you’re working on recovering from injury, slide boards can provide you the support you need to strengthen your body, especially for lower-body injuries. 

It’s a modality that will continue to add value for years.

If you’re looking for an effective option, our 6ft adjustable Slip Slide Board can help with physical therapy, sports performance, and beyond.

Using video in sports to improve performance is nothing new. 

In the early 1980s, American professional sports and college teams started retrieving videos of games to review in team meetings.  

Teams also acquired the film of opponents’ games to come up with winning tactics. 

It soon graduated to recording practice sessions to dissect individual or team performances for improvement. 

Now, recording your practices is an essential part of sports performance.

It’s even a set job in many professional teams.  

The Rise of Video Training in Sports 

Perhaps one of the most famous video analysts is the Miami Heat’s Eric Spoelstra.

He worked his way from reviewing video training to becoming the team’s head coach many years later and winning two NBA titles.  

Undoubtedly, if you’re a hockey player, video recording is valuable for training purposes.   

Hockey players strive to improve their speed, change of direction, puck control, shooting accuracy, and positioning.  

Each skill requires specific training to maximize performance but can be challenging to master. 

Here are five ways hockey training improves your game and how you can incorporate video into your training, even at home.  

1. Video Enhances Your Self-Assessment 

It's hard to pinpoint your mistakes when you’re skating at high speeds or competing for the puck. 

Your adrenaline is pumping. It’s part skill and part instinct.  

In hindsight, you may be able to identify areas for improvement.  

With video recording of your training sessions, you have the time to step back and perform some deep self-assessment.  

You can detail your training or performance by observing your technique and form. 

Video will show you glaring weaknesses in your game. 

Hockey players who leverage video assessment can significantly improve their game in as little as 30 days.  

2. Improve Your Decision-Making and Tactics 

Hockey is not only a game of brute force but savvy intellect. 

The decisions you make at one end of the rink can significantly impact the results at the other end.  

Reviewing practices and games can help you understand different game situations. 

You’ll likely make better decisions and apply your coach’s directions and tactics more effectively.  

Seeing yourself in action can help you see the game from your coach’s perspective, improving your tactical nous.  

3. Reinforce Good Habits... and Ditch Bad Ones 

What about the more intricate skills and techniques, like puck handling and shooting? 

You can also use video hockey training to improve in those areas. 

Seeing your shooting, passing, or puck-handling technique on video allows you to pinpoint good habits and eliminate bad ones.  

Visual learning helps you commit the things you need to change to memory.  

With the help of a coach, you can spend extra sessions working on those minor details and habits. 

It can also help you with off-ice training.  

If there are strength or flexibility limitations, you can tailor your resistance or mobility programs to boost your performance.  

4. Build Your Hockey Training Confidence 

Sometimes, you can work on a specific weakness or improvement area for months. 

How do you know if you’re improving? 

You can feel faster or more accurate.  

You can get feedback from teammates or coaches.  

Video drives it home.  

Seeing yourself through video over time boosts your confidence and motivation. 

And confidence plays a major role in hockey, as you need it to take risks, play with flair, and best your opponent. 

Video shows tangible improvements, which can translate into better practice sessions and games. 

5. Co-ordinate With Coaches for Professional Insight 

Is there a particular challenge you’re having in your game? 

Is it preventing you from being a better player? 

You may see value in recruiting another coach or specialist. 

That coach will need to see you in action. 

Video training allows for quick feedback and video reviews. 

You’re not limited to location. 

In fact, you can get access to the best in the game through remote coaching and feedback. 

Video training helps to create custom plans with coaches or even former professional players. 

They can slow down and zoom into specific parts of the video to emphasize observations.  

You Can Apply Video at any Level 

Is video training only available for professional teams? 

Absolutely not. 

You can apply video training at any level. 

For instance, if you’re practicing at home on synthetic ice, your iPhone and a tripod are enough to record your practice sessions. 

You can look into other cameras that give you better options, like the DJI Pocket or GoPro Hero 12.  

You can even add tools like apps to boost your video performance. 

Onform, Coach’s Eye, and Dartfish are fantastic apps that allow you to track your technique using drawing tools, vectors, and slow-motion analysis. 

Combine these apps with YouTube videos, online tutorials, blogs, and forums to help you maximize your video. 

With video and apps, you can train on the ice rink or at your home rink with synthetic ice. 

A large synthetic ice panel is enough for you to work on puck control, shooting, or stopping on the ice. 

You can then record those sessions and play them back to understand your progress. 

There’s no need to rely on your coach or wait to reach professional heights. At any stage, video hockey training will make you a better player.  

Become a Better Player with Video Hockey Training 

Hockey players are some of the most competitive athletes on the planet. 

They strive to become stronger, faster, and more accurate. 

Only the best of the best reach semi-professional or professional levels. 

The best way to get there is through consistent training over several years. 

The gap in talent, skill, and performance in all sports is narrowing rapidly. 

You need to find ways to set yourself apart from the competition as soon as possible.  

Video hockey training will enhance your training, motivation, and performance.  

Along with feedback and guidance from your coaches, you can only get better.  

The recommended tools and resources will cater to your individual needs and can even be applied to teens and kid hockey players.  

Embrace the future of training and become a better player with video.

Figure skating is arguably the hardest ice sport in existence. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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1. Edea Chorus Figure Skates

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

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

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

Edea Chorus Figure Skate Features: 

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

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

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2. Edea Piano Ice Skates

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

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

Edea Piano Figure Skate Features: 

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

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

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3. Edea Wave Ice Skates

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

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

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

Edea Wave Figure Skate Features: 

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

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

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4. Edea Overture Ice Skates

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

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

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

Edea Overture Figure Skate Features: 

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

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

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5. Edea Concerto Ice Skates

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

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

Edea Overture Figure Skate Features: 

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

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

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6. Edea Ice Fly Ice Skates

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

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

Edea Overture Figure Skate Features: 

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

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

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How Do You Break In Edea Skates? 

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

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

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

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

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

Breaking in skates also involves lacing your skates.

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 1. Bauer Supreme M4 Intermediate

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

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

Enjoy a more lightweight boot that’s still durable. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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2. Bauer S21 Vapor 3X Intermediate Ice Skates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

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3. Bauer Vapor X4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

  

 

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4. Bauer Supreme S22 M4 Senior

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

The Bauer Supreme M4 Senior check many of these boxes.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Bauer X Intermediate

Recreational hockey players and beginners, unite! 

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Bauer Supreme Ultrasonic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Bauer Supreme M5 Pro

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You should also think about your skill level. 

Are you a beginner?

Focus on high ankle support 

More of a pro?

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Conclusion

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

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

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

Take a look at the key features mentioned here. 

Consider your skill level and position. 

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

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