Oct. 2002
GETTING TO THE BOOT OF ITLeather boots offer more support than plastic, absorb perspiration and moisture, and after they are worn a few times will mold to your feet. Even though they will be uncomfortable in the beginning when they are brand new, once you break them in they will stretch to give you that custom fit. One of the main things you want in a skate boot is support. Proper support in the ankle and arch areas is essential for complete foot control. Also with the right amount of support you will be able to skate longer periods of time without experiencing foot fatigue. On the other hand, poor support leads to stiff, sore ankles and feet, even if only skating for a short period of time. As a rule, the best boots give the best support and the best boots today are manufactured by companies like Riedell, Harlick* and Roller Derby. Boot prices can range from as low as forty to as high as one thousand dollars per pair and thankfully that range ensures that all skaters will be able to find a quality boot that fits their price range and skating style. FITSerious skaters will want their boots to have a close fit over a thin sock. It is advisable to avoid thick, bulky socks as they tend to disturb the direct connection many skaters like their feet to have with the boot and indirectly with the skate floor. Some may wear extra socks to protect their feet from blisters, but if a skater is suffering from blisters that is a sign of an improperly fitted boot. Blisters are a result of too much foot movement within a skate that is either too loose or too wide or is not providing the level of ankle and arch support that skater needs.Skate boots usually run ½ - 1 size smaller than shoes so it is a good idea to try your boots on instead of buying by size. Some manufacturers will even make custom boots for you based on your personal measurements. A near-perfect fit is one in which your toes have room to wiggle and your heel does not rise up from the boot when you bend your knees and lean forward. BOOT TYPESAvid skater David Pippen of Atlanta Georgia, has learned a lot about skate boots over the years and recently he shared a few tips with RST. He is a fan of Riedell boots and has experience with a number of them."The 385 is that beginner boot that everybody uses when they first start...you can wear it and get used to skating. Once you get it broken in it is very soft and not much to it. The 121 is the next level, still with the vinyl bottom and leather upper but the sides and top are a lot sturdier... Right now I am using the 297 boot which is comfortable and is very durable and also has sheepskin on top for a little more comfort as far as your foot is concerned....it gives you ankle support but also flexibility so you can do the moves that you like to do. Before that I had a 121 which gives you a lot more stability for your ankle so you will not have to worry about twisting [it]," he said. David adds that he skated in the 297 boot only four times and it was broken in enough for his taste, but it took him at least six months to break in the 121 boot because it was much stiffer than others, however, he did like the control that boot offered. He has learned a lot by looking at books found in pro shops, discussing boot fit and performance with other skaters and mostly by personal experience and usage. With this Skater¹s Clinic we share just a little bit on the subject and encourage other skaters like David to learn more about the make-up, design and upkeep of the four-wheeled objects that bring us all so much enjoyment. Next month: A look at wheels, bearings and plates. - Kim Muhammad - *Correction - RST previously listed 'Hyde' instead of 'Harlick'
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