Are Hockey Skate Sizes The Same As Shoe Sizes
Are you itching to play hockey but unsure about which size of skate to get? It's a common question for beginners attempting to buy their first pair of hockey skates. The confusion arises from the fact that our shoe size doesn't always correspond to our hockey skate size. In this article, we'll explain why the two sizes don't match up and how to correctly measure for hockey skate sizes.
Why Don't Hockey Skate Sizes Match Up With Shoe Sizes?
There's no standardization of shoe size, which makes it difficult to match them with skate sizes. Besides, hockey skates have unique construction features that aren't present in shoes. For one, hockey skates come with a hard, protective shell that covers the foot and extends to the ankle, offering more support and protection than shoes. Also, the boots are typically made of sturdy, stiff material that ensures the feet don't shift around inside the boot and allows for better control and agility on the ice.
Another factor is that hockey skates are meant to fit snugly, while shoes are typically sized with enough room for the feet to be comfortable. When you put on a hockey skate, you'll feel a tight, snug fit that conforms to the shape of your feet. This is because the fit needs to be tight to provide the necessary support for lateral movements and to help you skate faster.
How to Measure for Hockey Skate Sizes
Now that you understand why hockey skate sizes don't match up with shoe sizes, here's how to measure for the right size of hockey skates:
- Put on the socks you'll wear when playing hockey. If you don't have the socks yet, get a thick pair of socks that comes up to your knees.
- Step onto a piece of paper and trace the outline of your foot with a pencil. Make sure you're standing straight and your weight is balanced evenly.
- Measure the length from the tip of your longest toe to the end of your heel using a ruler. Note down the measurement in centimeters.
- Compare the measurement with a size chart provided by the skate manufacturer. Each brand of skate may have its own sizing chart, so make sure you check the chart for the model of skate you're interested in buying.
- Try on the hockey skates in the size you think is right. Make sure you lace them up tightly and walk around in them for a few minutes. If they feel too loose or too tight, try on a different size until you find one that fits snugly.
Conclusion
So, are hockey skate sizes the same as shoe sizes? No, they're not. However, you can use your shoe size as a starting point for determining your hockey skate size. Keep in mind that hockey skates are designed differently to shoes and need to fit snugly for optimum performance. Follow the steps outlined above to measure for the right size of hockey skates and ensure that you're comfortable and safe on the ice.