Figure Skate Sharpening
We understand that a skater can hit or miss a jump based solely on the quality of their last sharpening.
Professional Skate has always understood the importance of a great sharpening. Figure skating is a sport that is judged on the ability by the skater to control their edges. A skater can hit or miss a jump or win or lose a competition based on a good or bad skate sharpening.
Understanding this simple fact is what has kept us determined to develop, define and maintain our outstanding sharpening standards. Much of our success in the world of figure skating has been understanding this most fundamental issue. In the end we sharpen skates for the most demanding group of skaters - figure skaters.
Blade manufacturers design blades with a specific measured blade radius. The radius of the blade often referred to as the rocker, is what determines how much blade is in contact with the surface of the ice, as well as the lift of the blade. This can be seen when a blade is placed on a flat surface and rolled forward until it hits the bottom pick. The radius of the blade is measured in feet. Each manufacturer has their own design, however almost all blades will fall between a 7 and 9 foot radius. If you are a skater or a skating coach, understanding the significance of blade radius (rocker) and it's effect on skating will certainly help you be a better skater. Or at the very least, an informed consumer. Incorrect sharpening (bad sharpening habits) over a period of time will alter the radius of the blade and slowly begin to effect everything from how much flow a blade has to the timing of when the bottom pick comes into contact with the ice surface. i.e.... what happened to my spins that were so awesome just a couple of months ago?
It should... but doesn't, go without saying that maintaining the manufacturers original blade radius is an absolute must for consistent performance of the blade.
The depth of hollow is what determines how sharp the skate blade is. It is measured by radius and is generally expressed as the specific increment of an inch. i.e. 1/2" 5/8" 7/16" of an inch.
The smaller the measurement, 7/16" for example, the deeper the hollow or the opposite of that, is the larger the increment, for example ˝", the less depth of hollow or the less sharpness the blade has.
Sharpening effects the flow of the blade, the amount of bite an edge has and even how hard the skater has to work to maintain their speed. The deeper the hollow the more the blades edges dig into the ice surface, as well, it should be noted that the deeper the hollow the less flow a skate blade will have. Our technicians have sharpened skates for world class figure skaters and respect the significance that a great sharpening can have on a skaters performance.
Pro Skate understands and can help you to determine a sharpening that will work best to enhance your performance. Consideration can be made for your level of skating, the ice conditions you skate on, personal preference, blade type etc.
To skate your best, you have to be able to rely on your skates. Our sharpening system assures you of a consistent result, every time.
If you're an out of town skating club, be sure to inquire about our free freight program for group sharpenings!
