Advanced Skaters Where to Start
On Saturday we talked about where to start with new skaters as far as boot and blade purchase. Today we want to talk about where to start with more advanced skaters.
Lets start with boots. Boots are really something that first should be talked over with you’re skating coach and see what their recommendations are. Here at OES we sell the top 3 boot manufacturers. Ultimately who to choose is really up to the coach and skater but I will give some thoughts on the different options.
Sp-Teri - This manufacturer is based here in the USA out of San Francisco, CA. They make both stock boots as well as customs. They are known for their quality and craftsmanship as well as being stiff in the ankle area. I have been in Sp-Teri boots for over 20 years and feel that they are one of the top boot lines in the world. They also offer skaters lightweight boots as well. We usually see skaters in SP-Teri’s that are working on doubles or higher due to the fact that they offer so much support and stiffness in the ankles. All the boots in this line do need to be waterproofed. Heat moldable options are available in both freestyle and dance skating boots..
Jackson - This manufacturer is based out of Canada. They offer boots from the Artiste all the way through Sr level boots. From the Jackson Freestyle and above the skates do need to be water proofed. Jackson offers lightweight options, for both stock and custom boots. Most of their boots are heat moldable which offer a more customized fit. Boots are made for both freestyle and dance models.
Edea - Edea is a fairly new manufacturer. Boots are all heat moldable. The soles are man made which require no waterproofing. This is one reason why more and more skaters are choosing Edea over competitors options. Boots offer stiff ankle support and break in time is minimal. Outside shell is made from Kevlar which makes the boots stronger and tend to last longer.
Boots are very skater specific. It just depends on the skater and what they like. It’s like the argument between Ford or Chevy trucks. A lot goes into the decision making process and it should be one made with your coach. What was outlined above are just some of the things that should go into the decision making process.
Our next post we will talk more about blades and the options available to skaters.