Equipment

 

PRESCHOOL/CANSKATE

 

  • Skates should be tie up and fit properly.  They must have good support around the ankles. If your child’s skate ankles are flopping inwards they are not giving the support needed to assist your child in the ability to learn the skills with less difficulty. If they can walk on the ground with the ankle straight…they are good for the ice. Leather boot is suggested over a molded boot. 

 

  • Snow pants and jackets are suggested to start off with. (if they have never  skated before) as they progress and get more stable on their feet they can change to thinner pants

 

  • Thick nylon gloves are preferred over wool or cotton, as these get too wet too fast.  Finger gloves are not suggested as they are colder for their fingers

 

  • Preferred that no kneepads or elbow pads are worn as it makes it difficult to stand up

 

  • Hockey helmets, as they are designed for many hard hits (cage is optional), bike helmets can be used if they fit snuggly. No toques or hats under the helmet please, as they slide down over the eyes.

 

  • Please do not send your child on the ice chewing gum.  They may choke on it if they fall.

 

 

                                       

INTRO STARSKATE/STARSKATE 

 

  • Proper figure skates that fit properly.  They must have good support and tied up correctly. Skates should be sharpened beforehand and checked every 6 weeks or so.

 

  • No molded skates please!

 

 

  • Helmet are optional, but as the skater progresses it will be harder to skate with it on. This of course is not acceptable for starskaters.

 

  • Skate guards are a must and must be worn to the ice surface and once they get off.  Any nicks on the blades hinder proper edges.

 

  • 2 pairs of tights or leggings should be worn.  One pair with the feet, the other is footless. Stretch pants are excepted as long as they are tight fitting around the ankle.  No jeans are allowed.  They have no movement. Please dress them warm, they may want to wear next to nothing because they look cool, but trust us…………..they will be cool………….too cool to skate properly.

 

  • Skirts and skating dresses are the best but please layer the body. 3 or 4 layers.  Undershirt, t shirt, thermal undershirt, turtleneck, slim fitting sweater or sweatshirt with no hood. All layers should fit body snugly to keep heat in.

 

  • Thin pair of nylon mitts.  Double mitt if necessary, and please have an extra pair in their skate bag along with an extra sweater for those cold days in the rink.

 

  • Hair must be tied back and out of their eyes.  Carry extra bands in their bags for those ……oops I forgot days.  This becomes a safety issue, as they can’t see with their hair in their eyes.

 

We hope this little info page helps you out.  If you have any questions about any equipment or clothing for your child, please feel free to ask your coaches.  We look forward to seeing you at the rink!