How to Convert Hockey Skate Sizes

The most important piece of hockey equipment is a player's skates. Pads and helmets are of obvious importance but you won't be seeing any action without the right pair of skates. Sizing is the biggest issue for new players; different skate manufacturers have different ways of sizing their skates and that can get rather irritating when looking for a new pair. Use these helpful tips to guide you through the headache and you'll be on the ice in no time.

Instructions

  1. Instructions

    • 1

      Go to the skate shop in your local ice hockey rink (any good rink will have a respectable one). Take the long thick socks with you, unless you plan on buying new hockey socks there.

    • 2

      Tell the shop attendant that you're looking for new skates and let him measure your foot with the sock on. Ask to see their sizing charts as well.

    • 3

      Now that you know the size of your foot, you can begin to discover how size is converted among different skate brands. For instance, if you wear a size 8 shoe, you'll need to get a size 6.5 in CCM, Easton or Reebok, and a size 7 in Bauer. Mission brand skates are the only ones that run true to size, so you'll be able to get an 8.

    • 4

      There are no hard and fast rules about converting hockey skate sizes; it all depends on the brand of skate you choose. When you find one you like, just use their sizing chart to convert to your size. You may need to experiment with different brands to get the right width and arch space for your foot as these vary.

    • 5

      Once you've found a skate that you like and are ready to try it on in your size, remember these tips to get the best fit: when the skates are on (with a sock), kick your foot back into the heel to make sure your heel falls into the cup at the back of the skate, stand in a hockey stance with your knees bent, while putting some weight forward, and make sure that your toes just graze the top of the skate and don't bunch up in an uncomfortable way.