FAQ Artistic Straightening

Required equipment, dimensions and fitting, training, sharpening and troubleshooting. Quick links to purchase equipment on the site.

What do you need to get started
A basic set includes figure skating boots, matching blades, comfortable skating clothing, blade guards (hard for walking and soakers for storage), a carrying case, and lightweight protectors as needed.
To buy: Figure Skating Boots • Figure Skating Blades • Figure Skating Clothing • Figure Skating Accessories

How to choose skating boots
Measure the length and width of the foot and choose hardness by level and weight. Beginners will prefer low to medium rigidity for comfort and control, advanced ones need high rigidity to support jumps.
To buy: Figure skating boots
For information: Size Guide for Figure Skating • Printable Size Table (PDF)

Which blades are suitable
The length of the blade is chosen by the length of the sole of the boot (usually about 0.25 inches shorter than the heel). For dancers with advanced jumps, it is recommended to have a high-quality Toe Pick and a stable profile.
Buy: Blades for Artistic Straightening

What accessories are recommended
Soakers for storage, rigid blade guards for walking, spare laces, tie hook, microfiber towel, ventilation enhancers for boots.
Buy: Figure

skating accessories

equipment

How to measure at home
Stand barefoot with your heel to the wall, mark the tip of your long finger and measure. Measure two legs and choose the longest. Adults add up to 0.5 cm, children 0.5 to 1.0 cm for growth.
For information: Size Guide for Figure Skating • Printable Size Table (PDF)

What do I do if I'm between sizes
Choose by feeling: If there is a tendency to pressure on the tips of your fingers, go half a size up, if there is movement in the heel or lack of control, choose a smaller size. Also check width.

wide foot width or pressure points
Look for Wide Widths or models with a Wide Pattern. It is possible to change the liging to release pressure in a specific area. If the pain persists, seek professional adjustment.

Dimensions and fit

How often to sharpen
At first, ice every 15 to 20 hours. Exercise frequently every 8 to 15 hours. Soft ice sometimes requires more frequent sharpening.
For information: Straightening and maintenance of skaters

how to keep the blades
Wipe immediately after a workout, put Soakers on storage, use rigid blade guards only off the ice, don't store with plastic guards. Ventilate the boots and insoles.

Some recommended workouts for beginners
1 to 2 workouts per week to build a foundation. For quick progress towards tests or competitions, you can go up to 3 to 4 training sessions and combine private lessons.

Training and Sharpening

pain in ankle or toe
Check tying, thin sock, suitable rigidity and width. If there is spot pressure, try changing the model or width. Persistent pain requires professional adjustment.

rust on the blade
Insufficient drying is the main cause. Wipe thoroughly, use Soakers, and avoid storing in a damp place. Significant rust requires cleaning and sharpening.

the blade pulls to one side
The edges may be unbalanced or the assembly may not be accurate. Seek professional sharpening and check alignment.

"escape" in acceleration or long braking
A sign of a blunt edge or hollow that is not right for you. Try a new or deeper hollow for grip.

common glitches and solutions

Measurement with a thin thermal sock.
Painless tight fit. When standing, your fingers can touch the tip lightly.
Test weight vs. rigidity and comfort according to your training level.
Don't choose a size that's too large for kids to "for next year" - it hurts control.