{"id":4471,"date":"2026-04-30T09:47:40","date_gmt":"2026-04-30T09:47:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/assuretonsport.com\/blog\/?p=4471"},"modified":"2026-04-16T10:31:41","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T10:31:41","slug":"ice-skating-practical-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/assuretonsport.com\/blog\/en\/ice-skating-practical-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Ice skating: complete guide to getting started and choosing your skates"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n

How can you master the ice with confidence whilst enjoying an accessible winter sport for the whole family? This guide details the specifics of ice skating, from the rigorous selection of Bauer or Jackson blades to the essential braking techniques for beginners. You will discover how to choose suitable equipment<\/strong>, whether it’s ice hockey or figure skating, to practise in France with optimal safety.<\/p>\n

Ice skating: one sport, several disciplines<\/h2>\n

After putting on your skates, it is time to discover the range of possible activities<\/strong> on the ice.<\/p>\n

Figure skating: grace and technique<\/h3>\n

This discipline combines pure aesthetics and demanding athletic performance. Performing complex jumps and rapid spins requires absolute technical precision<\/strong> for each movement.<\/p>\n

Artistic expression remains central. The skater must interpret their music with emotion whilst gliding<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

It is a perfect blend of sport and art. Balance is king<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Ice hockey: speed and contact<\/h3>\n

The hockey is defined by its constant intensity<\/strong>. It is a fast collective sport where physical contact is frequent, requiring players to wear robust protection. To vary your enjoyment, discover what are the collective sports to practise in 2025?<\/a> with other dynamic options.<\/p>\n

Team spirit dictates every action. Strategy and reactivity become essential to score goals<\/strong> as the puck moves at full speed.<\/p>\n

Speed skating and recreational skating<\/h3>\n

The speed skating<\/strong> focuses everything on aerodynamics. Athletes seek to break timed records on very long blades. The visual spectacle is truly impressive.<\/p>\n

The recreational skating proves far more accessible<\/strong>. It is often practised as a family, particularly during friendly outings during the winter season.<\/p>\n

It is the ideal activity to have fun<\/strong>. Everyone can try without experiencing any pressure.<\/p>\n

How to choose your ice skates?<\/h2>\n

Once you have identified your favourite discipline, choosing your equipment becomes the priority step<\/strong> to make progress.<\/p>\n

Ice skates for beginners: women, men, children<\/h3>\n

Comfort is criterion number one for getting started. The ankle must be well supported<\/strong> without being compressed. Always try your models with thick socks.<\/p>\n

For children, adjustable models exist. This allows you to keep the skates for several seasons<\/strong> despite foot growth.<\/p>\n

Check the quality of the blade. A well-sharpened blade greatly facilitates learning<\/strong> on the ice.<\/p>\n

Figure skates vs ice hockey skates: the differences<\/h3>\n

Figure skates have teeth at the front. They serve for jumps and pivots. The blade is longer and flat. This provides better stability for beginners<\/strong> during their first glides.<\/p>\n

Ice hockey skates are shorter and curved. They favour manoeuvrability and rapid changes of direction<\/strong> during play.<\/p>\n

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Criterion<\/th>\nFigure Skate<\/th>\nIce Hockey Skate<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
Blade shape<\/td>\nLong and flat<\/td>\nShort and curved<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Presence of teeth<\/td>\nYes (front point)<\/td>\nNo<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Boot rigidity<\/td>\nModerate to high<\/td>\nVery rigid (protection)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Primary use<\/td>\nFigures and jumps<\/td>\nSpeed and agility<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Manoeuvrability<\/td>\nStable for pivots<\/td>\nOptimal for turns<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n

Reference brands (Bauer, Jackson, Edea)<\/h3>\n

Bauer dominates the ice hockey market<\/strong> with robust models. Jackson is highly prized by beginner figure skaters. Edea offers innovative high-end boots.<\/p>\n

Each brand has its own fit specifications. It is highly advisable to measure your foot precisely<\/strong> before purchasing.<\/p>\n

Manufacturing quality guarantees durability. It is a worthwhile investment in the long term<\/strong> for making progress.<\/p>\n

Basic techniques for beginners<\/h2>\n

Now that you have blades on your feet, let’s see how to master this slippery surface.<\/p>\n

Learning to stand up and move forward<\/h3>\n

Keep your knees slightly bent for balance. Look straight ahead and not at your feet. Your weight must be distributed across the middle of the blade<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

To move forward, push outwards with one foot. Then bring this foot back towards the centre. Alternate the movement<\/strong> in a smooth and calm manner.<\/p>\n

Do not seek speed immediately. Stability is your absolute priority<\/strong> at the beginning.<\/p>\n

Braking and turning<\/h3>\n

Braking using the “snow plough” technique is the simplest. Spread your heels and bring your toes together without crossing them. Press firmly on the inside edges. This allows you to stop smoothly and safely<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

To turn, lean your body slightly towards the inside. Your gaze must guide the direction of your turn<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Here are some golden rules for maintaining your stability<\/strong> on ice skates:<\/p>\n