What to Buy with Your Ice Skates?

Introduction

Buying a pair of ice skates is exciting, but the skates alone aren’t always enough to give you the best experience on the ice. To skate safely, comfortably, and to keep your skates in top condition, there are a few essential accessories worth picking up at the same time. There are also some extras that can make your skating more enjoyable and help you personalise your setup.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the must-have ice skate accessories and the desirable extras you’ll find at Skates.co.uk, so you can get everything you need in one place.

Essential Accessories for Ice Skates

Helmet and Pads

Safety should always come first, especially for beginners and younger skaters. A properly fitted helmet reduces the risk of head injuries, while knee, elbow, and wrist guards help protect against falls. Investing in good quality protective gear means you can skate with more confidence and peace of mind.

Ice Skate Bag

Carrying skates around can be awkward, and blades can easily get damaged if they’re left loose. A dedicated ice skate bag makes transport simple and keeps your skates protected. Many models include extra compartments for gloves, socks, and other accessories, making them a practical choice for anyone skating regularly.

Skate Guards

Plastic skate guards clip onto your blades, allowing you to walk off the ice without damaging them. They’re essential for anyone skating at a rink, as blades can chip or dull quickly if they touch hard surfaces. If you want to get the most life out of your skates, guards are a must-have purchase.

Blade Soakers

After skating, moisture on the blades can cause rust. Blade soakers are padded covers that slip over the blades to absorb water and protect them while in your bag. If you want your skates to last longer and perform at their best, soakers are an inexpensive but valuable accessory.

Desirable Accessories for Ice Skates

Spare or Coloured Laces

Laces wear out over time, so having spares is practical. Choosing coloured laces is also a simple way to personalise your skates and stand out on the ice. They’re an inexpensive upgrade that can make a big difference to the look of your kit.

Gloves and Warm Accessories

Padded gloves not only keep your hands warm but also protect against scrapes if you fall. Thermal socks or specialist skate socks add extra comfort for longer skating sessions. These small additions can make skating more enjoyable, particularly in colder conditions.

Maintenance Kit

For skaters who plan to be on the ice regularly, a small maintenance kit is a useful investment. Items such as blade wipes or a simple sharpening tool can help keep your skates performing well between professional services.

Tips for Choosing Accessories

When deciding what to buy with your skates, always start with safety equipment first. Helmets and pads are more important than cosmetic upgrades. If you skate often, focus on blade protection with guards and soakers, as these will save you money in the long run by keeping your skates in good condition. Once you’ve covered the essentials, you can add extras for comfort and personal style.

Conclusion

When buying ice skates, it’s worth thinking about the accessories that will keep you safe, protect your equipment, and make your time on the ice more enjoyable. Essentials such as helmets, skate bags, guards, and soakers should be your first purchase, while extras such as laces, gloves, and maintenance kits can be added later to enhance your skating experience.

At Skates.co.uk, you’ll find a wide range of ice skate accessories, so you can order everything you need alongside your skates and be ready to enjoy the ice straight away.

FAQs

Do I need skate guards and blade soakers?
Yes. Guards protect your blades while walking off the ice, and soakers prevent rust during storage. Both help to extend the life of your skates.

What’s the most important accessory for beginners?
A helmet and pads are the most important purchases for safety, especially for children and new skaters.

Can I sharpen my skates myself?
Most casual skaters are better off getting skates sharpened professionally, but a simple sharpening tool can help maintain smooth edges between services.