Molding Your Skating Boots to Your Foot
In order to protect your ankle while executing turns, spins, and jumps on the ice, figure skates are designed to be very stiff. Heat molding is the process used to soften the hard leather. The boots will be placed in an oven to warm them up. When warm enough, they will be placed on your feet where they will mold to your feet as they cool. If you begin with a good-fitting boot, heat molding will help shorten painful break-in time, prevent foot pain and get you on the ice quickly. Inquire at your rink about heat molding. Here are a few other things to consider:
What to Wear in Your Skating Boots
Heavy socks are out – your boot won’t fit your foot naturally, and your foot will sweat. Wear only light socks or skating tights. You want to feel that your boot is a natural extension of your foot. However, don’t skip socks altogether – if you do, you are just asking for corns and blisters.
How to Lace Up Your Skating Boots
Your boots should be laced up to achieve a snug fit, but they should not be so tight that your foot hurts. You don’t want to get lace bite, a sharp foot pain caused by compressing the tendons so that they feel chomped on.
Choosing the Right Skating Blade
There are different blades for different ability levels, so make sure you have one that’s right for you. The blade must be the right size for the boot and must be mounted correctly.
Coping with Foot Problems When Skating
If you have a foot problem, such as a pronating foot, an orthotic can keep your foot in the proper position and help to eliminate or reduce foot pain. Because your body will be in correct alignment, your knees and back will also be supported. Be sure to only use an orthotic prescribed by a professional podiatrist.
Are You Suffering From a Sports Injury in the Caldwell or Meridian, Idaho Area?
If you're suffering from a sports injury you owe it to yourself to speak with our experienced podiatrists as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact us online or call our office directly at 208.855.5955 to schedule your appointment. We service all areas surrounding Meridian, Idaho as well as all areas in the Caldwell, Idaho area. We look forward to helping you!