How to Determine Hockey Skate Size

Hockey is a sport that requires swift skating and the ability to make quick turns and stops. These tasks become more difficult if your hockey skates do not fit properly. Not only can poorly fitting skates hinder your performance; they also can lead to foot and lower leg injuries. While hockey skate sizes, like sizes for regular shoes, can vary depending on the brand, there are basic principles to be aware of when selecting the proper size.

Things You'll Need

  • Shoe sizer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine what size shoe you wear. This can be as easy as looking at the flap of your sneakers or tennis shoes. If you are unsure of your shoe size or have not measured it in a while, find a shoe sizer device to measure your foot. Shoe sizers can be found and used freely in most shoe and department stores.

    • 2

      Subtract one to 1.5 sizes from your shoe size to determine your skate size. Skate sizes vary, but most major skate brands will fall into this calculation. For example, if you wear a size 8 shoe, try a skate size of 6.5 or 7.

    • 3

      Try on the skates once you have determined your size. Lace up the skates and place your heel in the back of the boot. In a properly fitting skate, your toes should slightly graze the toe box at the end of the skate. Your toes will pull back from the end of the skate when you take a hockey stance. If the skate is too snug and constricts any foot movement, try on the next half size up.