3 Most Comfortable Hockey Skates for Beginners (2022) | Hockey Question (2024)

Are you just starting your hockey journey?

Well, you may have heard (or experienced) horror stories of painfully uncomfortable hockey skates.

There’s nothing worse than feeling a huge blister developing in the middle of a game. Worse yet is experiencing a foot cramp that takes you off the ice before the game ends.

We know how painful it can be wearing an uncomfortable pair of hockey skates… Which is why we created this article for you.

In this post, we’ll cover the 3 most comfortable hockey skates for beginners so you can feel confident and perform at your best on the ice.

And, if you’re bigger or taller, you’ll want to check out our blog post on the Best Ice Hockey Skates for Big Guys.

Let’s begin.

3 Most Comfortable Hockey Skates for Beginners (2022) | Hockey Question (1)

Best Overall: Bauer Vapor Hyperlite

3 Most Comfortable Hockey Skates for Beginners (2022) | Hockey Question (2)

Our top pick for comfortable hockey skates in 2022 are the Bauer Vapor Hyperlite skates.

While these skates don’t come cheap, they are hands down the most comfortable skates available—and they’re arguably the best skates overall.

Pros

  • Extremely comfortable (Lock Fit Pro liner)
  • Very lightweight
  • Nice stiff boot for snug ankle support
  • Comes in a variety of sizes—allowing for a “custom” fit

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Some skaters have mentioned concerns about durability
Skate FeaturesBauer Vapor Hyperlite Ratings
Comfort10/10
Stiffness9.5/10
Weight10/10
Sizing Versatility10/10
Time to Break-In9/10
Durability9/10
Performance9.5/10
Aesthetics9.5/10
Runners10/10
Price6.5/10
Overall93/100

In 2022, Bauer introduced the Vapor Hyperlites… And they certainly don’t disappoint with the latest top-tier skate.

The proof is in the NHL players wearing them. Some of the most elite skaters rep the Hyperlites including Patrick Kane, Matthew Tkatchuk, Roman Josi, Steven Stamkos, and more.

The most important skate feature for beginner hockey players to consider is fit and comfortability.

With both a comfort and sizing versatility of 10/10, the Vapor Hyperlites have a really impressive fit and comfortability overall.

The skates feature a single piece boot, making it stiffer (and better fitting). While it may seem like a stiff skate may be uncomfortable—the truth is that it gives you much better support, allowing your skate to feel like an extension of your foot, rather than a clunky piece item attached to your foot.

So, despite the fact that the skates are stiffer, they’re incredibly comfortable.

Inside, you’ll find a comfortable Lock Fit Pro liner, Aerolite foam tongue, and additional padding to give an upper edge for comfortability.

Plus, as a beginner, it can be difficult finding the right boot size. It’s a lot easier to find a skate that fits perfectly after you’ve had years of playing under your belt.

However, that’s not an issue with the Vapor Hyperlites. They come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. Plus, with Bauer’s 3D foot scanning machine (you can use it for free at your local Pure Hockey shop), you’ll be able to find the exact size for your feet.

One downside to these skates is that some people have mentioned durability issues. However, the only major reason you should turn down these skates is the ticket price. While these are our top-rated skates in terms of comfortability, they’re also some of the most expensive skates on the market.

However, the value you get out of these skates is justified. Not only are these the top skates on the market in 2022… But, they’re the best overall skates for beginners looking for a comfortable skate.

Runner-Up: CCM Super Tacks AS3 Pro

3 Most Comfortable Hockey Skates for Beginners (2022) | Hockey Question (3)

Coming in at #2 for our most comfortable hockey skates for beginners are the CCM Super Tacks AS3 Pros.

These skates nearly took first place— as we gave them a rating of 88.5 out of 100 overall (just 4.5 points shy of the Hyperlites).

Pros

  • Very comfortable
  • Nice stiff boot for great ankle support
  • Lightweight
  • One piece boot design for maximum energy transfer
  • Keeps your foot dry with Total Dri Pro moisture wicking

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Doesn’t have as many sizing options as Hyperlites
Skate FeaturesCCM Super Tacks AS3 Pro Ratings
Comfort10/10
Stiffness9/10
Weight10/10
Sizing Versatility7.5/10
Time to Break-In9/10
Durability9.5/10
Performance9/10
Aesthetics9/10
Runners9/10
Price6.5/10
Overall88.5/100

In 2022, the CCM Super Tacks AS3 Pros are among the highest performance hockey skates available—and an excellent option for beginner skaters.

Two of the top NHLers who rep the AS3 Pros are Alexander Ovehckin and J.T. Miller.

The Super Tacks AS3 Pros are a gorgeous one-piece skate. Having a one-piece boot means you have incredible energy transfer in the skates—offers you much more agility and power when skating.

A one piece boot is definitely an advantage for newer players who are getting used to stopping and starting. It gives you a nice edge on the ice since you’re still getting used to frequently changing directions in the game (which can be hard on your feet and legs).

These skates also feature CCM’s brand new foot bed tech: the Ortholite Ultralight footbed.

This foot bed feels very nice and snug on your foot. Plus, it also includes moisture wicking technology that keeps your feet nice and dry (and comfortable) during play.

The biggest downside is that the AS3 Pros don’t have a ton of versatility when it comes to sizing—which is one reason they fell short of the Hyperlites. Plus, being a top-tier skate, they’re also really expensive.

However, overall, the AS3 Pros are very comfortable—especially if you have a medium-sized foot. They also come with the option of an interchangeable tongue to give you an even better fit (not included in standard price).

Best Budget: Bauer Supreme 3S

3 Most Comfortable Hockey Skates for Beginners (2022) | Hockey Question (4)

If you’re wanting to get a comfortable pair of hockey skates, but you aren’t ready to drop a thousand dollars on some skates, then you’ll want to check out Bauer’s Supreme lineup.

This series of skates is designed with straight line speed and maximum power transfer in mind.

While the Bauer Supreme 3S hockey skates aren’t the best on the market, they’re a great budget-friendly option for beginners players. And, they offer arguably the best value, as they’re some of the best mid-tier skates available.

Pros

  • Very comfortable mid-tier skate
  • Lightweight
  • Nice stiff boot is good for beginner ankle support
  • Great value for the price
  • A bunch of sizing options for almost any foot
  • One piece design gives you maximum energy transfer

Cons

  • Not as durable as top-tier skates
  • Performance isn’t as good as top-tier skates
Skate FeaturesBauer Supreme 3S Ratings
Comfort8/10
Stiffness8/10
Weight8/10
Sizing Versatility9/10
Time to Break-In7.5/10
Durability7.5/10
Performance8/10
Aesthetics8/10
Runners7/10
Price8/10
Overall79/100

If you’re new to the game, but you aren’t ready to drop $1,000 on top-tier skates, then the Bauer Supreme 3Ss are some of the best mid-tier skates available.

They feature a nice, stiff boot in a wide variety of sizes. The skates are versatile enough size-wise to provide maximum comfort for any beginner.

The exterior of the boot is made from an impressive 3D Lasted Flex composite which offers a nice custom fit. Plus, the boot is super sturdy, allowing you to push off with more power on each stride.

The 3Ss also come with one of the best holders for mid-tier skates: the Lightspeed Edge. These holders make it easy for you to replace your blade when necessary with the flip of a trigger.

The Supreme 3Ss also include a comfortable Hydrophobic Microfiber liner. This prevents excess build up of moisture inside your boot—which offers a bit more comfort during a game.

7 Tips for Making Your Hockey Skates More Comfortable

If you’re wanting to get your skates as comfortable as possible to avoid chafing, bruising, or general foot pain, then follow these 7 tips:

1. Get Your Feet Fitted & Scanned

If you’re about to buy some hockey skates, then make sure you follow this first tip. It’s the most important one.

Take a trip to your local hockey shop and get the most knowledgeable worker there to properly fit your feet to the right skates.

Get your size. Try on a bunch of different brands, models, and sizes.

If you’re near a Pure Hockey Shop, go there and get your feet scanned for free on their 3D Bauer machine.

This machine accurately sizes your feet to the exact skate size you are. Just keep in mind, they’ll fit your feet to a Bauer skate, not CCM or any other brand.

2. Bake Your Skates

Heating your skates up, putting them on, and letting them set is very common practice among hockey players. This is important even if you get top-tier skates.

You can get this done at most hockey shops. Or, you can do it yourself.

Check out this article to see how you can bake your skates at home.

3. Use Comfortable Insoles

Next up, your skate insoles are super important.

While your skates will come with stock insoles, it’s a good idea to upgrade your insoles if you want to avoid (or get rid of) skate discomfort.

4. Use Hockey Skate Inserts & Gel Pads

Another great solution to avoid skate discomfort is to use skate inserts and/or gel pads.

To avoid lace bite, try out some Gel Pads—they provide extra comfort around the ankles.

To avoid overall foot pain, check out Superfeet Hockey Foam Insoles. These are used by a ton of hockey players to add a bit more comfort.

The Powerfoot Performance Inserts are another insert that help you remove negative space inside your skate, making it more snug.

You can get an overview of Powerfoot Inserts in this video:

5. Try Wearing Different Socks

The easiest (and fastest) option to improve comfortability in your skates is by just changing the socks you’re wearing. Simple, right?

This may sound too easy, but it really can work like a charm.

If you have too much wiggle room in your skate causing you discomfort, try thicker socks. And, if things are a bit too tight, try thinner ones.

6. Lace Your Skates Up Better

Sometimes, you could be uncomfortable due to improper lacing.

You could have skates that fit perfectly, but if you’re tying them up incorrectly, they’ll feel uncomfortable.

To prevent uncomfortable skates, try changing up the tightness of your laces on your boot.

For instance, you could tighten the laces at the bottom section of your skate, loosen them up a bit in the middle, and then tighten them up again at the top.

Take notice of where you’re feeling the most discomfort. Then, loosen or tighten your laces accordingly.

7. Play More Frequently

If you’re only going out a few times each year to skate, then your skates are more likely to feel uncomfortable. If you don’t use them much, they’re going to feel painful and there’s no real way around that.

You need to give your feet the time to adjust to skates.

As a beginner skater, this is especially true. Most new skaters find their skates are very uncomfortable at the start. And, they often wonder if they did something wrong or picked the wrong skates.

But, the truth is, every pair of skates has a break-in time.

And, as time goes on, your feet begin adjusting to your skates. Most of the time, you just need to be patient, giving yourself more time to break your skates in.

Sources

https://www.geargeek.com/stats/points

https://www.purehockey.com/product/bauer-supreme-3s-pro-ice-hockey-skates-senior/itm/41276-41/

https://www.purehockey.com/product/ccm-super-tacks-as3-pro-ice-hockey-skates-senior/itm/41383-41/

https://www.purehockey.com/product/bauer-supreme-3s-ice-hockey-skates-senior/itm/41277-41/

3 Most Comfortable Hockey Skates for Beginners (2022) | Hockey Question (2024)

FAQs

What are the best hockey skates in 2022? ›

Pro Hockey Skates
  • Bauer Supreme MACH Skates ($1009.99 – $1079.99) ...
  • Bauer Vapor HyperLite Skates ($1009.99 – $1079.99) ...
  • CCM Tacks AS-V Pro Skates ($1059.98 – $1119.98) ...
  • CCM JetSpeed FT4 Pro Skates ($999.99) ...
  • Bauer Supreme M5 Pro Skates ($759.99 – $ 829.99) ...
  • Bauer Vapor 3X Pro Skates ($749.99)

What type of ice skates are best for beginners? ›

Hockey skates are fast and maneuverable and offer good support of the foot, making them a good choice for beginners. Hybrid ice skates are with their soft-boot also a good choice for beginners who are only interested in using them for cozy rides.

How to choose hockey skates for beginners? ›

The simplest way is to use your shoe size to find what size skate is likely to be the best fit. Assuming your shoe size is correct, we would recommend selecting a skate box size half to one size below your shoe size.

What skates are easier to skate in? ›

Inlines are generally easier for beginners to learn with, but quad skates are both highly customizable and better for artistic movements like strutting or spinning. At the end of the day, which type of skates you go with largely comes down to personal preference.

Are CCM or Bauer skates better? ›

Bauer equipment is more accurate when it comes to sizes and also has better quality overall. Other than the equipment aspect of the brands, another factor plays in: pricing. The most expensive pieces of equipment are the skates and sticks. The majority of people use Bauer more because of the cheaper prices.

How sharp should beginner skates be? ›

Best Depth For Beginner Skaters

For figure skate style boot or a skate with a wider blade, we would recommend a 5/8 sharpen.

What are the 3 styles of ice skate used today? ›

There are five main types of ice skates: the figure skate, the ice hockey skate, the bandy skate, the racing skate, and the touring skate.

What are the best hockey skates that don't hurt your feet? ›

Our top pick for comfortable hockey skates in 2022 are the Bauer Vapor Hyperlite skates. While these skates don't come cheap, they are hands down the most comfortable skates available—and they're arguably the best skates overall.

What skates do most NHL players wear? ›

The NHL's Most Popular Gear
SkatesPlayers
Supreme Mach106
JetSpeed FT4 Pro65
Supreme Ultra Sonic62
Vapor 2X Pro57
1 more row

How comfortable should hockey skates be? ›

Hockey skates should be snug, but not uncomfortably tight. When unlaced, your toes should just barely touch the toe cap. When standing in your skates with them fully laced, you want your heel snug in the heel pocket, so your toes have a bit of space at the end.

Should I buy hockey skates a size bigger? ›

General Tips for Finding your Skate Fit. Hockey skates run big. What the heck does run big mean? It means that, generally speaking, your hockey skate size will be about 1 - 1.5 sizes smaller than your shoe size (US) for men and 2.5 - 3 sizes smaller for women.

How much money should I spend on skates? ›

Generally, you can expect to pay about $100-125 to a decent beginner skate set (with attached blades) that you can use for recreational skating and will take you through basic skills, and about $200-250 for a pair that will last through beginning freestyle.

Should hockey skates be loose or tight? ›

The skate should fit very snug for proper support to enable a good push-off without any movement of your foot inside the skate. And finally, it takes a few wears to break in a new pair of skates. Baking your skates is another option that helps expedite the break-in process to get a more custom fit.

What is the easiest skate? ›

Longboards are a popular choice for beginners because they are the easiest to ride from day one. Drop through boards are even more friendly to beginners because they lower the ride height for extra stability and easier pushing. When choosing longboard size, it is important to keep your own size in mind.

Are C7 skates good for beginners? ›

Designed with a soft, pliable boot that doesn't add bulk, dig in or weigh you down, the C7 Roller Skates form to your feet instead of the other way around. From little ones hitting the rink for the first time to kids-at-heart just looking to have a little fun, these skates are the perfect gift for newbies of all ages.

What is basic 3 ice skating? ›

FUNdamentals - Basic 3-6: These levels develop all of the fundamental skating skills on the ice. Focus is on learning the ABCs of basic athleticism: agility, balance, coordination and speed. Upon completion of these levels, skaters will be able to confidently advance to more specialized areas of skating.

What is the difference between beginner and intermediate skates? ›

Entry level skates will most likely not hold up to advanced maneuvers and jumps. Intermediate / Advanced Ice Skates - Boots and blades that perform well at the highest, most demanding levels, these skates are more complicated, and in turn, more expensive than most other figure skates.

What skate profile is right for me? ›

what profile is best? A smaller profile (7′) will make less contact with the ice than a larger profile (13′). Less ice contact (7′) allows for greater maneuverability and acceleration, but also digs into the ice more than a larger profile (13′), which means slower top speeds and increased fatigue.

What radius should beginner skate on? ›

Figure: Most beginner and instructional skaters can skate on a 1/2" radius. A 5/8" radius will take care of most recreational skaters.

Are skates or blades better for beginners? ›

Roller skates might be easier for young children, because they feel more stable initially. Yet, blades can be easier to learn how to skate well. Tricks are typically done with inline skates, but can be done on blades.

What size should my ice skates be? ›

Generally speaking, youth and junior figure skates fit a half size down from your regular shoe size, while adult skates generally fit 1.0 size down from your regular shoe size. For example, a woman skater wearing a size 9.0 shoe would select a size 8.0 figure skate.

What is the hardest ice skating move? ›

The Axel jump, also called the Axel Paulsen jump for its creator, Norwegian figure skater Axel Paulsen, is an edge jump in the sport of figure skating. According to figure skating historian James Hines, the Axel is "figure skating's most difficult jump".

What is the hardest technique in ice skating? ›

In order of difficulty, from the easiest to the hardest, they are: toe loop, salchow, loop, flip, lutz, axel. Three of those are jumps in which the skater's toe pick initiates the lift off the ice: toe loop, flip and lutz.

How do I stop my feet from hurting in hockey skates? ›

So focus when you are skating on your “weight foot print” and make sure the front half of your skate has way MORE weight than the back half. You will know when you have done this when your feet don't hurt anymore. Reducing your speed will help this, as more speed makes our bodies (and feet) tense even more.

How do you make ice skates not hurt your feet? ›

Molding Your Skating Boots to Your Foot

When warm enough, they will be placed on your feet where they will mold to your feet as they cool. If you begin with a good-fitting boot, heat molding will help shorten painful break-in time, prevent foot pain and get you on the ice quickly.

Is Bauer Supreme or vapor better? ›

Generally speaking, Supreme is built for maximum power and control compared to Vapor which is built for ultimate quickness and agility. For players who are using Bauer's current sizing system, make sure you use the chart below to find out which fit best suits your foot.

What is the most popular hockey skate brand? ›

CCM Super Tacks 9350 Senior Skates

Along with Bauer, CCM is arguably the most well-known hockey skating brand. Adults looking to restart hockey can consider the Super Tacks 9350 skates. CCM has the best hockey skates preferred by professional hockey players.

What position skates the most in hockey? ›

The centre is responsible for taking faceoffs and covering the middle of the ice at both ends of the rink. They typically skate greater distances than other positions as they play deep in both the offensive and defensive zones.

What is Bauer fit 3? ›

Bauer Fit 3

Players looking for volume, with a deep heel pocket, a taller instep and a wider width will find the Fit 3 to be the way to go. Now skaters can get a full volume fit in Bauer Supreme Fit 3 Skates: Ultrasonic, 3S Pro, and 3S models, as well as the Bauer Vapor Fit 3 Skates: 2X Pro, 2X and X2.

How can I make my skates more comfortable? ›

Leather conditioner. If parts of the leather boot are too stiff for comfort, purchase some leather conditioner to soften your skates. Using a soft cloth, rub the conditioner into the uncomfortable part of your boot. Bend the leather back and forth to make the boot less stiff.

Are expensive skates more comfortable? ›

Top-of-the-line skates are the best that money can buy. They will have all of the newest features, extra padding for comfort and protection, an extremely stiff quarter package and the highest-quality steel on the market.

Do expensive hockey skates make a difference? ›

Generally speaking, the higher the price, the better the skates will be. But, most players don't require top-of-the-line skates, so you don't need to worry about buying the most expensive ones you find. Instead, you should first determine your spending limit and then look for skates that are priced within that range.

Why do my feet hurt when I skate? ›

Plantar fasciitis — Plantar fasciitis occurs due to repetitive stress on the bottom of the feet, stretching from the heel towards the toes. It causes pain in the heel and arch, and is common in skateboarders due to intense gripping motion of the toes while skating and poor calf strength or flexibility.

Why do my skates hurt feet? ›

If your skates are too big or too small, you may end up with chafing, redness, and even blisters, which can make skating (not to mention just wearing normal shoes) very uncomfortable. Skate boots that are too large don't stay in place, causing them to slide back and forth on your foot.

How many times a week should I figure skate? ›

Skaters progress better when they skate at least twice a week, as it takes a minimum of two times per week to train a muscle group. Skaters that wish to compete and/or take moves in the field tests should figure practice time according to their jumps.

What is the difference between Bauer S27 and 3S? ›

The 3S replaces the S27 and has a new defined Supreme Fit, which provides a better fit for ankle wrap and heel depth. It uses a flex comp quarter and a flat collar for more support. We have Aerofoam plus in the ankles and a new toe cap for a better attack angle. We'll price match from any competitor!

How much does a good pair of skates cost? ›

Prices range from below $150 for recreational skates, and upwards of $150 for skating classes ice skates. Advanced level figure skates with a better level of support for $250 and higher.

Should you wrap laces around skates? ›

Skates are often laced incorrectly. Also, players and parents have the bad habit of wrapping laces and tape around the skater's ankles. The skates should support the feet, not act as a cast and inhibit good movement. Wrapping the laces and sock tape around the ankles should be avoided.

Should my toes touch the end of my skates? ›

Skates Are Just Right If: They feel snug and your foot is held securely. While standing, you can stretch your toe inside the boot and barely touch the end.

What is the best skate for hockey? ›

Best Hockey Skates for 2022
  • Bauer Supreme Mach Ice Hockey Skates.
  • CCM Tacks AS-V Pro Ice Hockey Skates.
  • Bauer Vapor 3X Pro Ice Hockey Skates.
  • CCM Jetspeed FT4 Ice Hockey Skates.
  • True TF9 Ice Hockey Skates.
  • Graf PK5900 Ice Hockey Skates.
  • True TF7 Ice Hockey Skates.
  • Bauer Vapor X3. 5 Ice Hockey Skates.
Aug 2, 2022

What is the most worn skate in the NHL? ›

What are the most popular skates in the NHL? The largest brand of skates used by NHL players is Bauer, with over 70% of the NHL players. The most popular Bauer skate worn is the Vapor 2X Pro, worn by 34% of all NHL players.

How do I choose the right ice skate? ›

7 Tips for Buying Your Own Ice Skates
  1. Consider the skates' primary use (ice hockey, figure skating, speed skating, recreational, etc.). ...
  2. Consider your skill and experience level. ...
  3. Consider how often you'll use the skates. ...
  4. Think about your foot size. ...
  5. Do some research on different brands. ...
  6. Go for the Goldilocks fit.

How do I make my ice hockey skates comfortable? ›

Here's How to Make Ice Hockey Skates Comfortable:
  1. Get your feet fitted properly (and scanned).
  2. Bake your hockey skates.
  3. Use the right insoles.
  4. Try hockey skate inserts and gel pads.
  5. Wear different socks.
  6. Lace your skates up better.
  7. Skate more.
  8. Consult a skate specialist.

What are the lightest hockey skates ever? ›

: The #OD1N skate is the lightest hockey skate ever created and has the 1st fully composite holder. ” Um?

What is the fastest hockey skate? ›

The average hockey player's speed is around 10-25 mph. However, some players can skate as fast as 30-35 mph. The world record for the fastest skating speed is held by Connor McDavid, who reached a speed of 40.9 mph during a game.

What hockey brand is the best? ›

This list compiles the most popular brands for hockey players of any level.
...
  1. Bauer. Bauer is one of the largest manufacturers of hockey equipment. ...
  2. CCM. ...
  3. Warrior. ...
  4. TRUE. ...
  5. Graf. ...
  6. Sher-Wood. ...
  7. Brian's. ...
  8. Easton.

What is the most popular hockey curve? ›

A moderate curve depth (1/2”) is the most popular and will help improve puck control, improve the ability to lift the puck easier (compared to slight), all while still having a good backhand. A deep curve depth will provide the most control thanks to the blade being able to really cup the puck.

Which NHL rink has the best ice? ›

Which NHL arena has the best ice? Bell Centre continued its reputation for having the best ice surface in the NHL, with a margin of nearly 26% separating it from Rogers Place in the second spot. This marks the fourth time Bell Centre has earned the nod.

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