How to Buy a Skate?

Richard H asks:

I am looking to buy some new skates. There are so many brands and models.
Can you give a quick lesson on what to look for in skates?
I am planning on visiting my sister in Minnesota this weekend, so I am planning on stopping at Hockey Giant. Good or bad idea?

I have always preached that skates need to be tried on since different models & brands fit different foot shapes. A visit to a large store like Hockey Giant is a great idea (although I do preach to keep your money local if at all possible).

Every brand has a high, middle & low end model. This means $600, $300 or $100. There are also typically several models in between. So, in the end your choices can include 4-8 models per brand. That's alot of info to digest, so here are some tips.

1. Cost - Determine how much you want to spend. The more expensive skates are made with materials that make a skate lighter, more durable or more comfortable. A certain line of skates should all have a very similar design, so the fit will be very similar.
2. Brands - Don't buy a pair because Ovechkin wears them (ok, maybe that's a bad example). You should try as many brands on as possible. I suggest one on each foot to compare the different styles.
3. Size - If it fits like a slipper, its probably too big. Start 1 size down from your shoe size. Keep going smaller until its tight (but not painful). Your toes may actually hit the front when standing, but if you bend your knees into a "ready" position, you'll notice they pull away from the toe cap.
4. Options - You can also consider things like replaceable blades. If you plan on keeping the skates for a long time, this could be a good idea (if you skate enough to wear blades down).

In the end, try on many skates. If someone "guides" you to a certain brand, it could be because they don't sell the others, or get spiffs for selling a certain model, or just have a strong opinion. If a salesperson takes the time to ask you questions, and they don't put their opinions on you but rather sincerely help you into that "glass slipper" fit...buy it!