Ice hockey skates
Joseph Peacock (ArriveNet Editorials - Apr 30, 2006) --
Before you spend a lot of money for a new pair of ice hockey skates,
first consider your level of play among two basic categories: the recreational
skater and the amateur hockey player. Chances are, you’ll fall
somewhere within these two groups and finding the right skate for you
can save you plenty.
1.) The recreational skater, one who enjoys ice skating as an occasional
pass-time, wouldn't necessarily require a high-end hockey skate like
those designed for amateur league play. On the other hand, the same
skater should not compromise comfort and safety merely to save a few
dollars. One could easily find a suitable pair of hockey skates from
a major manufacturer without spending a lot of money and still get a
good skate. The BAUER Vapor VI is a good example for those wanting a
quality skate without draining their wallet. All name brand hockey skates
are highly engineered and available in a wide price range to fit almost
any budget.
2.) The amateur hockey player is usually involved in organized sports
such as school hockey teams or private leagues. This level of play requires
skating long periods of time several days per week. Typically, an amateur
hockey player requires a hockey skate designed for heavy use and structured
to maintain a high level of comfort and durability. A mid-level skate
such as CCM Super Tacks or the CCM Vector series is a likely choice.
If a more high-end skate is preferable, the BAUER XXX or GRAF 707 nears
the top out the list of some of the best skates available.
The NHL is probably the most effective venue hockey skate manufacturers
have to market their retail products to the general public. When kids
see the skates their favorite pro players are wearing, they want a pair
just like them. However, professional hockey players have their skates
custom made by major skate manufacturers so don’t expect to find
an exact replica of their skates on the pro shop shelf or any web site
you may run across. What you will find is a retail version of the same
skate. Even though they are not the exact skates, they are a quality
product engineered by the same manufacturers.
Weather you are a recreational skater or an advanced league hockey
player, you can easily find a pair of ice hockey skates suited for your
specific needs without overspending. While shopping, keep this in mind.
Even the biggest name brand manufacturers will have a line of skates
to fit almost any budget. So, look closely, ask a lot of questions and
save money.
Joseph Peacock is the owner of KSJ Products, LLC and HockeyPuckers.com,
a family business offering quality hockey skates and equipment at reasonable
prices. The business is co-owned by his wife, Shirley and his daughter,
Kalie. Together, the three are dedicated to serving their customers
as friends. Their rigid belief in recognizing each customer as much
more than a number is the reason they started their business.
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