Taking proper care of your figure skates is essential for maintaining their condition and performance. Simple steps before, during, and after skating can significantly extend the life of your blades and boots.
Essential Skate Care Steps
Proper skate care involves specific actions when you are off the ice. Following these guidelines helps protect your blades from damage and prevents rust.
Here are the key steps to take based on best practices for figure skate maintenance:
- Always Use Hard Guards Off the Ice:
- When: Wear hard guards any time you are not on the ice but are still wearing your skates.
- Why: Hard guards protect your sharp blades from damage when walking on floors, concrete, or any surface other than ice. They prevent nicks and dulling, which can affect your skating performance.
- Clean Blades Immediately After Stepping Off the Ice:
- When: As soon as you step off the ice.
- How: Remove any excess snow or ice from the blades and soles before putting on your hard guards. This prevents moisture from being trapped against the blade.
- Thoroughly Dry Your Skates After Skating:
- When: After you finish your skating session.
- How: Dry your blades and the soles of your boots thoroughly using a heavy cotton towel. This removes moisture that can cause rust on the blades and damage the boot material. Pay close attention to the edges of the blades and the crevices around the blade holder.
Quick Care Summary
| Action | When | Purpose | Tool/Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wear Hard Guards | While wearing skates, off the ice | Protect blades from damage & surfaces | Hard blade guards |
| Remove Excess Snow | Immediately after leaving the ice | Prevent moisture trapping | Hands/Edge of guard |
| Dry Blades and Soles | After finishing skating | Prevent rust and boot damage from moisture | Heavy cotton towel |
Following these fundamental steps will help keep your figure skates in excellent condition.
