Are Figure Skates Sharpened The Same As Hockey Skates
Are you one of those people who think that all skates are made equal? Well, that's not entirely true. Skate blades are designed differently based on their respective sport. Here, we will discuss how figure skates and hockey skates differ in blade design, and if they are sharpened the same way.
Blade Design
Figure skating blades are longer and flatter than hockey skates. Figure skates have a long blade with a hollow ground into the bottom, which creates two edges. These edges allow skaters to do spins, jumps, and other moves.
Hockey skates have a shorter blade that is curved, allowing for easier turning on the ice. The blade is also thicker than a figure skate blade, making it more durable for harsher contact with the ice and other players.
How Are Skates Sharpened?
The process of sharpening figure skates and hockey skates is different. Although some similarities exist, each type of skate uses a specialized machine to sharpen the blade.
For figure skates, a specialized machine is used to create two edges by grinding the blade at an angle. The depth of the hollow is also a crucial factor that comes into play when sharpening figure skates. Skaters with a deeper hollow can achieve better grip on the ice, but it also means more friction, which can slow them down. Some figure skaters prefer a shallower hollow to move faster on the ice.
Hockey skates, on the other hand, are sharpened with a different machine that creates a more rounded blade. The roundness of the blade allows hockey players to have more control of the puck and to make swift turns on the ice. The depth of the hollow in a hockey skate blade is not as crucial as it is in figure skates.
Conclusion
So, in conclusion, figure skates and hockey skates are not sharpened in the same way. Each has its specialized machine that caters to their blade design. The difference in blade design and the way they are sharpened is essential for the sport of choice. Sharpening a skate incorrectly can affect the skater's performance, so it's essential to have the correct machine for each type of skate.
It's always a good idea to go to a professional to get your skates sharpened, whether you are a figure skater or hockey player. They have the equipment and expertise to ensure that the skates are sharpened correctly, and you can get the most out of your skating experience.