Rick Heinz Blog

Unless you're brand new to hockey, you already know that goaltenders and skaters wear different types of skates. Goalie skates are designed so that pads are able to fit properly around it, as well as provide more padding to protect the feet from pucks. But even if you're not new to the sport of hockey, it's never a bad idea to review what goalies should be looking for when selecting a goalie skate. Here's a look:

Picking the Right Goalie Skate

Shopping for goalie skates is a lot like shopping for regular hockey skates in terms of sizing, in that they're usually sized about a size smaller than an individual's shoe size. When trying on a goalie skate, be sure that your heel doesn't move as you walk on it and that it fits snug enough so that you'll be able to adequately push off and move from side to side. Additionally, be sure to wear your game socks when trying on goalie skates so that you can get an adequate feel for how the skate will fit.

How Sharp Should My Goalie Skates Be?

Being able to trust your edges is crucial for any hockey player, and goalies are no exception. In order to be able to quickly patrol the crease and move from side-to-side in the net to maintain positioning, goalies need a solid edge on their skates. But just how should the skates be sharpened to accomplish this? Here's a look:

• Young or beginner goalies should start out with either a 1 inch, 3/4 inch or 5/8 inch radius at either a 90/50 or 90/75 equivalent. This is a more dull cut, so there's less bite, but it's one that allows for more speed and glide - and that's good for the novice goaltender.
• More advanced goaltenders often opt for a cut that provides more bite, thereby allowing them to move more quickly in the crease. Popular professional-level radiuses are usually 7/16 inch or 3/8 inch at 100/75 equivalent. 

As you can see, while goalie skates might seem like an intimidating purchase to make, buying a pair of these specialty skates are really no more complicated than buying any old pair of hockey skates. For more information on goalie skates, and to learn how to master the art of goaltending, contact our goalie camps today.