Guidance
Browse the learning centre. Read a full guide, then use a tool or ask a supporter if you need individual help. No sign-in is needed to read.
Starting out
Ice Skates: The BasicsHire skates, figure and hockey blades, beginner fit and your first pair of skates.Ice Skating: The BasicsStanding, soft knees, marching, lemons, stopping and falling safely.Buying skates and getting the fit right
Choosing your skatesWork through size, stiffness and blade choice before buying or renting.Buying second-hand skatesCheck real listing photos, boot breakdown, blade rust and the correct manufacturer size before buying used skates.Manufacturers’ sizingUnderstand UK, EU, Mondopoint, Edea, Risport and Jackson size references before a proper skate fitting.Methods of SizingUnderstand 3D scans, footbed scans, measuring tools and paper tracings as part of an in-person skate fitting.Checking skate fitA practical length and width fitting guide, with heat moulding and punching explained.Figure skate comparisonThe original manufacturer comparison of boot stiffness, level and blade options.Breaking in ice skatesWhat changes in a new boot, how long it takes and when discomfort is not break-in.Dealing with foot painCommon pressure points, possible causes and practical guidance for skaters.Sharpening and blade setup
Figure blade comparisonCompare rocker, pick, stanchion height and intended skating style.Ice skate sharpening explainedHollows, level edges and the difference between sharpening methods.Choosing a depth of hollowUnderstand grip and glide, factors affecting your choice and the hollow-angle reference chart.Hand sharpeners and re-edgersHow re-edgers work, when they can help and why they are not a substitute for sharpening.Everyday care
Skate maintenanceGuards, soakers, drying, storage, boot care and regular checks.Looking after new skatesCommon questions about new equipment, changing balance, sharpening and getting help.Skate problems and damage
Skating with damaged bladesRust, nicks, gouges and toe-pick damage: how they happen and what to do.Deep rust: cause and cureWhat deep rust is, how to prevent it and why some damage cannot be reversed.Edge rustRecognise edge rust, prevent it and understand the limits of repair.Ice skate breakdownRecognise structural failure at the ankle, quarter panels, heel, tongue and sole.Profile drift in figure bladesHow successive sharpenings change blade geometry, with a glossary of terms.Profile drift in hockey bladesChanges to hockey blade profiles over time, their effects and terminology.Getting into figure skating and hockey
Getting into figure skating in CambridgeAn introduction to disciplines, equipment and the Cambridge skating community.Getting into ice hockey in CambridgeFirst steps, equipment and the local university, junior and recreational clubs.Working with supporters
A coach, fitter and technician may need different observations. Start with the guides and your equipment record, then decide what information you want to share.