How to Match Skate Runners to Old Hockey Skates

Got an old pair of hockey skates you haven't used in a while hanging in the garage? Revitalize them and turn them into an almost-like-new pair in no time by replacing the skate runners. The skate runner is the plastic piece along the bottom of the boot that attaches the metal blade to the skate shoe. It is easy enough to replace the skate runner, but you need to make sure you have the right size for your skates. Choosing the right size involves several factors, including the height and weight of the person wearing the skates, and the style of play and position of the wearer. This information will influence the sharpness of the blade (called the "hollow") and the degree of the runner's curvature (known as the "rocker").

Things You'll Need

  • Hockey skates
  • Skate runners
  • Scale
  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get on the scale to weigh yourself. Record your weight.

    • 2

      Use a measuring tape to determine your height. You may want a friend to hold the tape to help with this part. Record your height.

    • 3

      Go to a skate shop to choose your skate runners. Using the information you have recorded about your height and weight, you can begin to look for runners to match your old skates. It will also be useful to have information about your playing style and position to get the correct skate runners.

    • 4

      Calculate the appropriate radii of your skate runners. The radius of the runner in inches denotes how much of the blade touches the ice when skating in a straight line. The higher the radii of the runners, the more stability the skate has. Therefore, heavier, defensive players will require higher radii in their runners, while lighter, offensive players need a smaller radius. For a forward under 6-feet-tall and weighing less than 200 lbs., the radii of your runners should be between 9 and 11 inches. If you are a defensive player over 6-feet-tall and weighing more than 200 lbs., your runners' radii should be between 11 and 13 inches.