Kate Brown
Ice skating is an exhilarating sport that relies heavily on technique, balance, and—often overlooked—sharp skates. Having well-sharpened skates is essential for stability, control, and a smooth glide across the ice. Skates that are too dull or incorrectly sharpened can hinder performance, making it harder to stop, turn, or accelerate. This guide will walk you through the basics of ice skate sharpening, key maintenance tips, and expert techniques for keeping your skates in top shape for every skate session.
Why Sharp Skates Matter
The sharpness of your skates directly impacts your control on the ice. Well-sharpened skates provide the necessary grip (or “bite”) on the ice, allowing you to glide, turn, and stop with precision. Without proper sharpening, you may find yourself slipping, struggling to make tight turns, or feeling less stable. Consistent skate maintenance not only improves performance but also prolongs the life of your skates.
Understanding Ice Skate Edges
Ice skates have two edges on each blade, the inside and outside edges, separated by a groove in the middle. This groove is known as the hollow, which varies in depth based on the sharpening style and skating discipline. The edges and hollow play a crucial role in the skate’s grip and glide:
- Inside Edge: This edge is closer to the inner part of your foot. It’s often used for turning and stopping.
- Outside Edge: Closer to the outer side of your foot, this edge provides stability and helps with balance.
- Hollow: The concave area between the two edges. Its depth influences the amount of bite your skates have on the ice.
Understanding these components is essential for choosing the right sharpening technique for your skating needs.
Determining the Right Hollow Depth
Hollow depth, or radius of hollow (ROH), affects how much grip or glide you’ll experience. A deeper hollow offers more grip, which is ideal for tight turns and stopping. In contrast, a shallower hollow provides a smoother glide but less bite.
Recommended Hollow Depths by Skating Style
- Figure Skating: 5/8” to 7/16” (More control and precision for jumps, spins, and turns)
- Hockey: 3/8” to 1/2” (Greater grip and acceleration for quick maneuvers)
- Recreational Skating: 5/8” to 1” (Balanced glide and control)
- Speed Skating: 1” to flat (Focus on glide with minimal bite)
If you’re a beginner, start with a moderate hollow (around 5/8”) until you feel comfortable experimenting with different depths.
When to Sharpen Your Ice Skates
Knowing when to sharpen your skates is crucial. If they’re too dull, you’ll feel a lack of control; if they’re too sharp, they can dig into the ice too much, affecting smooth movement.
Signs Your Skates Need Sharpening
- Difficulty Stopping: If stopping becomes challenging or you’re sliding too much, your edges may be dull.
- Lack of Control on Turns: Dull edges often cause skaters to slip during turns.
- No “Bite” on the Ice: Without a good bite, you may feel like your skates are slipping out from under you.
- Inspecting for Visual Wear: Look for nicks or rough patches along the edges of your blades. Small burrs or chips indicate that it’s time for sharpening.
How Often to Sharpen Ice Skates
How frequently you sharpen your skates depends on your skating style, frequency, and personal preference. Here are some general guidelines:
- Casual Skaters: Every 15–20 hours of use.
- Frequent or Competitive Skaters: Every 5–10 hours of use.
- Hockey Players: After every few games or practices, especially if you’re skating on rough surfaces.
Keep track of your skating hours to ensure you stay on top of your sharpening routine.
Types of Ice Skate Sharpening Techniques
Ice skate sharpening can be done using different techniques and machines, each designed for specific skater needs and preferences.
1. Traditional Radius of Hollow (ROH) Sharpening
ROH sharpening is the most common method, using a curved grinding wheel to create the hollow on the blade. This technique lets you control the amount of grip and glide.
2. Flat Bottom V (FBV) Sharpening
FBV sharpening involves creating a flatter edge on the skate, which enhances glide while maintaining the grip. FBV sharpening is especially popular with hockey players and speed skaters who want better glide with quick acceleration.
3. Cross-Grinding
Cross-grinding is a preparatory sharpening method for skates with nicks or rust. This process smooths out imperfections, creating a fresh surface for traditional sharpening. If your skates have been exposed to moisture or are heavily used, start with cross-grinding.
4. Manual Sharpening with a Hand Stone
For minor touch-ups, a hand stone can be used to smooth out nicks or burrs on the blade. However, this doesn’t replace professional sharpening; it’s more for maintenance between sharpening sessions.
DIY Skate Sharpening: Is It Possible?
While it’s possible to sharpen skates at home, professional sharpening is recommended to maintain the quality of your blades. For DIY touch-ups:
- Hand Stones: Use hand stones to remove small nicks or smooth out edges.
- Edge Honers: Designed to restore edges between professional sharpenings, edge honers help extend the time between full sharpenings.
Tip: Keep in mind that home methods don’t fully replicate the effect of professional sharpening machines and are best for minor fixes.
Maintaining Sharp Skates for Optimal Performance
After sharpening, caring for your skates is essential to prolong their sharpness and keep them in great shape.
Dry Your Blades After Each Use
Moisture is the enemy of metal blades. Use a soft cloth to wipe down your blades immediately after skating, ensuring there’s no water left behind.
Use Blade Covers
Use soft blade covers, or “soakers,” to protect your blades from moisture while in storage. Hard blade guards are better for walking around off the ice but don’t leave them on for extended periods, as they can trap moisture.
Store in a Dry Place
Avoid leaving your skates in damp environments, such as the trunk of a car, as moisture can damage the blades. Store them in a dry, cool place to prevent rust.
Avoid Walking on Rough Surfaces
Always use blade guards when walking off the ice. Walking on hard or rough surfaces, even briefly, can dull or damage the edges.
Finding a Reliable Skate Sharpener
For best results, find a reputable skate sharpening service with experienced professionals who understand your skating needs. Look for recommendations from other skaters or online reviews to ensure high-quality sharpening.
Questions to Ask Your Skate Sharpener
- What’s the recommended hollow depth for my skating style?
- How often should I get my skates sharpened?
- Do they offer FBV or traditional ROH sharpening?
- Can they perform repairs or cross-grinding if needed?
Frequently Asked Questions About Skate Sharpening
1. Can I sharpen my skates too often?
Yes, over-sharpening wears down the blade, shortening its lifespan. Stick to a consistent routine based on usage.
2. How do I know what hollow depth is right for me?
Experiment with different depths, but a 5/8” hollow is a good starting point for most skaters. Ask your skate sharpener for guidance based on your skill level and skating style.
3. Can I sharpen my skates at home?
While possible, DIY methods don’t provide the same quality as professional sharpening. Use hand stones or honers for minor touch-ups only.
4. How can I protect my skates from rust?
Dry your skates after each use, use blade covers, and store them in a dry area. Avoid leaving them in wet or damp places.
5. Why do my skates feel different after sharpening?
You may feel more “bite” or grip after sharpening. Adjust to the sharper blades by practicing basic moves before resuming advanced skating.
6. Do all skates need the same type of sharpening?
No, sharpening styles differ based on the type of skating—figure skating, hockey, and speed skating each require different hollow depths and techniques.
7. How long does professional skate sharpening take?
Most sharpenings take 10–15 minutes, but wait times vary by service. Some shops offer same-day or walk-in services.
Conclusion
Sharpening your skates is more than a maintenance task—it’s essential for a smooth, safe, and controlled skating experience. Whether you’re new to the ice or a seasoned skater, understanding the basics of skate sharpening and edge maintenance will ensure your blades perform at their best. Keep up with regular sharpening, protect your edges, and consult with a reliable professional when needed. With these sharpening tips, you’ll be ready to glide across the ice with confidence and precision.