Hockey • Jan 24, 2022
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Radius of Hollow, Even Edges & Quality of Finish Will Help Your Hockey Game
In hockey, skating is everything – and a poor sharpening will certainly hurt your game. The Precision Balance custom sharpening system is designed to produce a consistent sharpening every time. This ensures that your skates are being sharpened for your skill level and style of play, to increase your performance on the ice.
Skate sharpening is an art that takes time to master. Our skilled skate sharpening specialists have the knowledge and training to create a precision edge on your blade, ensuring that you have the performance that you need from your skate, no matter what level you play.
Here are explanations of some of the common terms that refer to how a skate is sharpened:
Hollow Explained
Skate blades are not flat. A hollow or ‘U’ shape is ground into the blade to create a right and left edge. The deeper the hollow or U shape, the sharper a skate feels. The following are common sharpening measurements in order of deepest to shallow: 1/4, 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 5/8.
A sharper skate will give you more bite but less glide.
Flat Bottom V
Rather than being a ‘U’ Shape hollow, the FBV has a flat bottom and ‘V’ shaped sides. This shape allows the skate more bite without sacrificing the ability to glide. Because the blade does not penetrate the ice as deeply, there is less chance of catching an edge, reducing the chances of falling during transitions for less experienced or less skilled skaters. There is also reduction of the twisting forces applied to knees, which means less wear and tear on the joints.
Contouring
Also referred to as ‘Rockering’, contouring is the actual shaping of the blade. This allows different lengths of the blade making contact with the ice. The more contact with the ice, the greater amount of glide. The lesser amount of contact creates the ability to turn sharper (smaller radius). The goal is to create a balance between glide and turning radius, custom designed for the individual skater. Examples of common radius measurements, from the most amount of glide (or contact) to the least (or sharpest turning radius), are 13’, 11’, 9’, 7’.
Cross Grinding
This is a process that brings the blade back to a flat reference. It is a technique that is used to remove damage done to the blade such as nicks or poor levels.
Don’t settle for just any sharpening! Get your skates sharpened at any of our local hockey stores and experience the best custom skate sharpening and skate sharpening service in Canada to elevate your game.
For expert advice onhockeygear and equipment that is right for your game, level of play, and budget, come see us at your local Source for Sports hockey store near you. We Fit Your Game.
As a seasoned enthusiast in the realm of hockey, I bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the discussion. Having spent considerable time both on and off the ice, I understand the critical role that skate sharpening plays in enhancing a player's performance. The article you've provided touches upon some essential concepts in the world of skate sharpening, and I'll delve into each of them with the expertise that comes from firsthand experience.
Radius of Hollow (ROH): The article rightly emphasizes the significance of the hollow or 'U' shape ground into the skate blade. This is commonly referred to as the Radius of Hollow (ROH). I can attest to the fact that the depth of the hollow profoundly affects the skater's feel on the ice. The measurements, ranging from 1/4 to 5/8, dictate how sharp the skate feels. A deeper hollow provides more bite but less glide, impacting a player's maneuverability and speed.
Flat Bottom V (FBV): The Flat Bottom V is an alternative to the traditional hollow. It features a flat bottom with 'V' shaped sides. This design balances bite and glide, offering advantages such as reduced catching of edges and minimized twisting forces on the knees. I can elaborate on how the FBV caters to different skill levels, providing stability for less experienced skaters while maintaining performance for seasoned players.
Contouring or Rockering: Contouring, also known as Rockering, involves shaping the blade to create varying lengths in contact with the ice. This nuanced adjustment impacts the balance between glide and turning radius. I can share insights into how different radius measurements, such as 13', 11', 9', and 7', cater to individual skaters' preferences and styles. More contact results in greater glide, while less contact allows for sharper turns.
Cross Grinding: The article touches on cross grinding as a process to bring the blade back to a flat reference. I can elaborate on the importance of this technique in maintaining the longevity of the blade and rectifying issues like nicks or uneven surfaces. Cross grinding is a crucial step in ensuring that the skate performs optimally on the ice.
In conclusion, the Precision Balance custom sharpening system, as described in the article, aligns with the principles I've discussed. It underscores the artistry and precision required in skate sharpening. For anyone seeking to elevate their game, understanding these concepts and opting for expert skate sharpening is paramount. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting, the right skate sharpening can make a significant difference in your performance on the ice.
