Newsletters and Information

Attached is the Carnival Package 2008
Attached is the November 2006 Newsletter

SKATE CARE Q & A:

Q: Are skate sizes the same as shoe sizes? How do I size skates for my child?

A: Skate sizes are not the same as shoe sizes. The best way to size skates for your child is to take them to a sports shop that sells skates, such as Sport Check, Dress Wright on Ice the Skaters Wish and have their feet measured.

Q: How do I take care of the blades, once my child is off the ice?

A: You need to wipe the blades dry with a drying cloth or small towel right away. Do not put plastic skate guards back on the skates until after the blades are completely dry, possibly not until after you get home. The plastic guards will hold the moisture in and cause rust. We recommend cloth guards.

Q: Where can I get my child`s skates sharpened?

A: You need to take them to a shop that will provide the proper figure skating edge, rather then a straight hockey edge. We recommend: Sport Chek, The Edge, Skater`s Wish, Dress Wright on Ice.

Q: How often do I need to have them sharpened?

A: We recommend twice a year; once at the beginning of the season and once again in February, when carnival practice starts.

Q: Is there anything wrong with buying used figure skates?

A: Absolutely not. A good pair of figure skates that are well taken care of can last to serve a number of skaters. But you must check the quality of the skates first.

Q: How can I tell when my child`s used skates are "done"?

A: Your child`s skates are done if you see evidence of the following:

  • Child is "skating on their ankles"
  • There is a big crease in the ankle support area
  • You can fold or bend the ankle support area with your hands

Q: At what point do I worry about skate quality? Is it important to buy high quality skates even if my child is not a competitive skater?

A: Even if your child is not a competitive skater, good support at the ankles is critical. Flimsy skates may hinder skaters from jumping, turning and transferring weight to one foot. Flimsy skates may cause discomfort to the skater, resulting in an aversion to the sport. It is not necessary to buy top-of-the-line skates for a non-competitive skater. However, there are some middle line quality skates that will offer the support your skater needs.

Q: I`m not sure if the quality of my child`s skates is holding her back. Is there someone who can take a look at them for me?

A: If you are concerned about your child`s skates, our skating pros Jaqui and Stephanie will be happy to have a look at them for you and provide the advice and assistance you may require.