Skate Sharpening Questions

1 

How often do I need to sharpen skates?

The frequency of sharpening depends on several factors, including how often you skate, the quality of the ice, and your personal skating style. For recreational skaters, sharpening every 20 to 30 hours of ice time is generally recommended. However, more frequent skaters, like hockey players or figure skaters, may need to sharpen their skates every 10 to 15 hours of use. It's essential to regularly check the condition of your blades and adjust your sharpening schedule based on your specific needs and skating habits.

2

Do I need to sharpen brand-new ice skates?

Yes, it is generally recommended to sharpen brand-new ice skates before using them for the first time. While new skates come with factory edges, they might not be properly sharpened for optimal performance. Factory sharpening can vary, and the edges may not have the correct angle or level of sharpness needed for effective skating. Sharpening new skates ensures that the blades are prepared to provide the best grip, control, and stability on the ice. It's a good idea to have them sharpened to ensure the edges are consistent and suited to your skating style.​​

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3

What is deburring and why do my skates need it?

Deburring ice skates after sharpening is essential to ensure performance and safety on the ice. When skates are sharpened, small burrs, or rough edges, are often left on the blades.

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Deburring removes these imperfections, creating a smoother edge that enhances glide and maneuverability. It also helps prevent nicks and chips in the blade that can occur if burrs are left untreated. Regular deburring not only improves the skating experience but also extends the life of the blades by maintaining their integrity and performance.

4

Should my edges be checked after each sharpening?

Yes, checking the edges of your ice skates after every sharpening is necessary. Ensuring that the edges are even and properly sharpened is crucial for maintaining good performance and safety on the ice. Both edges should be level and have the same height for balanced performance. Uneven edges can lead to instability and difficulty in controlling your movements.

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Properly checked and sharpened edges help reduce the risk of accidents and falls by providing better control and grip on the ice.

5

What is a hollow and why does it matter?

An ice skate hollow, the shape of the groove or indentation ground into the blade of an ice skate, is not just a technicality but a significant factor in the skate's performance on the ice. The blade of an ice skate is not flat; it has a concave groove along its length, creating two sharp edges on either side. This groove is the "hollow." The depth and curvature of the hollow significantly affect how the skate interacts with the ice, influencing the overall performance.

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The hollow is generally referred to by the radius of the circle that would fit into the groove, which is called the Radius of Hollow (ROH). Common ROH measurements range from 3/8" (9.5 mm) to 1" (25 mm). A smaller ROH (e.g., 3/8") creates a deeper hollow, resulting in more pronounced edges, which provide better grip or "bite" on the ice. A larger ROH (e.g., 1") results in a shallower hollow, which makes for a smoother glide but less grip. Deeper hollows (Smaller ROH) provide more control and better turns as the sharper edges dig into the ice more. Figure skaters usually prefer this due to needing more precise movements. Shallower hollows (Larger ROH) allow for faster speeds with less resistance from the ice, making it suitable for more s or those who prefer quick, straight movements.

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The choice of hollow depends on the skater's style, weight, and the ice conditions. Heavier skaters might prefer a shallower hollow to avoid excessive bite, while lighter skaters may benefit from a deeper hollow for better control.

6

Does it matter where or who sharpens my skates?

While there might be numerous options for skate sharpening, there's immense value in entrusting your skates to the same person who consistently delivers the performance you seek. This ensures uniformity in the sharpening of your blades and helps preserve the feel and quality of your skates. Other sharpeners may use different equipment or techniques, leading to slight variations in your edges or blade profile. We strive to minimize variability and provide reliable results in the form of consistent feel and performance on the ice.