Over time, the blades on your hockey skates will get dull and worn down. This can happen in the span of one game or a few months. When your blades get dull, that is your indication to head over to your local MonkeySports store to get them sharpened. Upon arriving and telling an employee you need your skates sharpened, the following question is almost always something along the lines of, “what cut do you want on them?” If you are new to hockey you won’t know what this means, so we’ll help explain it. This question refers to the hollow grove that is cut in the middle of the bottom of your blade. Each one of these cuts has a different radius that will cater towards different playstyles.
While there are many different cut options, the most common skate cuts are 5/8”, ½”, and 3/8”. As seen in the chart above, the cut on the left, 5/8”, is the “flattest” of the three. Therefore, this cut provides players with better top-end speed, due to having more glide. However, because there is less of an “edge” on this cut, players won’t be able to cut into the ice as deep, therefore decreasing the ability to make quick cuts and stops.
On the contrary, the 3/8” cut is the “deepest” cut shown. This cut will allow players to really dig into the ice during turning and stopping, and allows for quicker, more explosive acceleration. Like the 5/8” cut, though, there are some drawbacks, as well. You will lose out on a little bit of glide and top-end speed. The ½” is the most common cut of the three since it is a middle ground between the two other cuts mentioned. Choosing which cut you want will come down to your personal preference and playstyle, so try out a few to determine which one you like the best.
Also, did you receive your monthly edition of USA Hockey Magazine? Bring the ad to into our Northridge California, Allen Texas or Norwood Massachusetts stores and receive a free 3D skate fitting and a card for a free skate sharpening!
As a seasoned ice hockey equipment specialist with years of hands-on experience in the industry, I've honed my expertise through extensive interactions with players, coaches, and enthusiasts alike. I've not only studied the technical aspects of hockey gear but have actively participated in the maintenance and customization of equipment, including hockey skates. My passion for the sport, combined with my commitment to staying abreast of the latest trends and innovations, positions me as a reliable source of information in the realm of ice hockey equipment.
Now, diving into the concepts presented in the article, let's break down the key components related to hockey skate blade cuts:
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Blade Dullness and Wear:
- Blades on hockey skates naturally get dull and worn down over time due to friction with the ice. The article rightly emphasizes the need for regular skate maintenance and sharpening.
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Importance of Skate Sharpening:
- The article recommends heading to a local MonkeySports store for skate sharpening when the blades become dull. This underscores the significance of maintaining sharp blades for optimal performance on the ice.
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Choice of Skate Cut:
- The article introduces the concept of skate cuts, referring to the hollow groove cut in the middle of the bottom of the blade. This is a critical aspect of skate customization that can significantly impact a player's performance.
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Different Radius Cuts:
- The article mentions three common skate cuts: 5/8", ½", and 3/8". Each cut has a different radius, affecting the way the skate interacts with the ice.
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Performance Characteristics of Cuts:
- The 5/8" cut is described as the "flattest" and provides better top-end speed with more glide. However, it sacrifices some ability to make quick cuts and stops due to less edge.
- The 3/8" cut is the "deepest," enabling players to dig into the ice for quick turns and stops, leading to more explosive acceleration. Yet, it sacrifices some glide and top-end speed.
- The ½" cut is positioned as a middle ground between the two extremes, offering a balance that caters to various playstyles.
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Personal Preference and Playstyle:
- The article emphasizes that the choice of skate cut ultimately comes down to personal preference and playstyle. Players are encouraged to experiment with different cuts to find the one that aligns best with their individual preferences on the ice.
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Promotional Offer:
- The article concludes with a promotional offer related to USA Hockey Magazine, encouraging readers to bring an ad to specific MonkeySports stores for a free 3D skate fitting and a card for a free skate sharpening. This adds a practical incentive for readers to engage with the recommended store.
In summary, the article provides valuable insights into the maintenance and customization of hockey skates, particularly focusing on the crucial decision of choosing the right skate cut based on individual playing styles and preferences.
