Ever struggled with lacing up your hockey skates and getting that perfect fit? Say goodbye to those old lacing techniques. Let’s aim for comfort, stability, and perfect performance on the ice. With these step-by-step instructions, you will master the art of lacing your hockey skates in no time. So, let’s get straight into the steps on how to lace hockey skates!
Why Should You Properly Lace Your Hockey Skates?
Properly lacing your hockey skates is a non-negotiable aspect of the game. Lacing ice hokey skates impacts both your performance and safety on the ice. Here are a few more reasons why you should lace your hockey skates properly:
- Comfort: Comfort is very important in ice hockey skating because ice skating rinks are cold. A well-laced skate ensures a snug fit, reducing the chance of discomfort that can distract you during play. (Read more on how to make hockey skates comfortable)
- Stability: Lacing your skates correctly can improve your stability by a lot. This can improve your balance, agility, and maneuverability. All of these are vital elements of a successful hockey game.
- Performance: The way your skates are laced can directly influence your skating speed and precision. A tight and secure fit allows for better power transfer from your feet to the blades, resulting in better performance.
- Safety: Safety, of course, is another important thing that you can increase through proper hockey skate lacing. Loose or improperly laced skates can lead to slips, falls, or even injuries. On the other hand, a well-laced skate provides better ankle support and reduces the risk of injury.
Things To Consider Before Lacing Your Hockey Skates
Before we move on to the actual lacing techniques, let’s go through some important things you should consider:
- Choose the right skates: The first step to proper lacing is choosing the right pair of skates for your feet. Make sure they fit well and provide enough support.
- Get the right laces: Laces play a crucial role in the lacing process, so make sure you have good quality ones that are long enough to lace up your entire skate.
- Know your foot type: Depending on the shape and size of your feet, you may need to adjust the lacing pattern to achieve the best fit. Check the list below to select the right lace size:
Youth 8 to Junior 3: 72 inches
Junior 3.5 to 5.5: 84 inches
Adult 6 to 8: 96 inches
Adult 8 to 10: 108 inches
Adult 10 to 13: 120 inches
Adult 12 to 15: 130 inches
Read more: Best Bags for Ice Skating.
How To Lace Your Hockey Skates in 6 Steps?
Here are 6 simple steps to lace your hockey skates effectively:
- Unlace Your Skates: Start by completely unlacing your skates. This will allow you to start fresh and evenly distribute the laces.
- Thread The Eyelets: Begin from the toe of the skate and thread the lace through the first pair of eyelets. Make sure the lace is evenly distributed on both sides.
- Cross The Laces: Now, cross the laces over each other and thread them through the next set of eyelets. This process should be continued till you reach the topmost eyelets.
- Tighten The Laces: After threading all the eyelets, pull on the laces to tighten them. The tightness should be such that your feet feel secure but not uncomfortable.
- Tie a Knot: Once you are satisfied with the tightness of the laces, tie them in a secure knot at the top of the skate. Ensure it is a knot you can easily undo, especially in an emergency.
- Recheck the Fit: Put on your skates and stand up after lacing. You may need to readjust the tightness if your foot slips or feels loose.
Note: Always remember that optimal comfort and support are key in lacing your hockey skates. It can directly influence your performance and safety on the ice.
Expert Hockey Skate Lacing Techniques
Besides the six-step process, a few advanced techniques can help you achieve the perfect fit for your hockey skates. These include:
Under Crisscross Lacing or Under Lacing
It is the most widespread lacing technique, suitable for beginners and children. You initiate the process by inserting the lace into the bottom eyelets from beneath. Each lace then runs diagonally across the tongue and is threaded through the interior of the subsequent eyelet on the opposite side. Repeat this till all eyelets are laced.
Over Crisscross Lacing or Over Lacing
Over lacing shares similarities with under lacing but involves inserting the lace into the eyelets from the exterior instead of the interior. This technique gives your skates a traditional appearance with more visible lace and allows for slightly extra tightness. It may, however, necessitate a longer lace than under lacing.
Double Cross Lacing
Double cross lacing helps maintain tight laces and prevent slippage. It’s relatively quick and easy but can complicate the untying process. To attempt this method, lace your skates using the under or over-lacing technique. At the final eyelet, cross the two ends of the lace twice rather than once.
Lock Lacing
Lock lacing is a technique borrowed from runners, believed to secure the foot well and prevent slippage. This method is useful for novice skaters, players with poorly fitting youth or junior skates, and those prone to ankle injuries. However, it restricts the flexibility of your skates. To execute lock lacing, lace your skates as per the previous styles, leaving the top two eyelets on both sides unthreaded. Then, thread the lace through the second topmost eyelet from the inside and insert it into the neighboring topmost eyelet from the outside.
Partial Lacing
Advanced skaters favor partial lacing. It provides more freedom of movement at the ankles, facilitating tight and glide turns. The method is also suitable for wide feet requiring looser lacing. If you’re a beginner, this lacing style may feel unstable. However, it’s worth a try as you gain experience. To perform it, use the under or over lacing, but leave the uppermost eyelet unlaced for more lateral mobility and agility.
How To Lace Hockey Skates: Final Words
So, this is how to lace hockey skates in 6 simple steps. Lacing your hockey skates properly ensures a comfortable fit, maximizes performance, and prevents injuries. Experiment with different lacing techniques until you find the one that suits you best. Always tighten your laces properly, leaving no gaps or loose areas.
Let us know in the comments if you still have any questions left.
Goodbye & Keep Skating Like A Pro With SkatersDen!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do hockey players tie their skates?
Many hockey players use the standard criss-cross lacing method for optimal support and comfort. They often employ lock lacing near the top of the skate for ankle stabilization. However, personal preferences and comfort can lead to variations, with some players opting for partial lacing to enhance agility and mobility on the ice.
Q: How do you lace up true skates?
True skates are laced similarly to other hockey skates, using the standard criss-cross method for optimal support. Some users may prefer the lock lacing technique near the top part for additional ankle stability. Personal preferences and comfort can lead to variations, such as partial lacing for enhanced agility.
Q: How do you wear hockey skates?
Firstly, choose a pair of skates that fit snugly, neither tight nor loose. Next, put on a pair of thin, moisture-wicking socks to maintain comfort on the ice. Lace up your skates using the method that best supports your foot and skating style. Lastly, always ensure your ankle is secured firmly with no chances of rolling or sliding in the skate.