The number one money waster is skate abuse!
- Loosen the laces all the way to remove the skate. Don’t rip your skate off your foot by putting your other foot against the back of the boot and pushing! You will damage the tendon guard and weaken the part of the boot that is providing stability and protecting the Achilles tendon.
- Dry your skates!
- Dry the blades after use and use a soaker for storage.
- And, also dry out the boot! Moisture will destroy the inside of your skates. You guys (and girls) who play hard – you know how much you sweat. We’re not talking a little moisture here, we’re talking about a water-logged boot. Don’t toss your drenched skates in the bag between ice time. Loosen the laces. Open the boot up. Pull out the footbed and prop it up inside the boot so everything can dry out.
- NOT only will your skates last longer, but they’ll give you the support you should have longer.
General care of equipment – avoid moisture and bacteria
- It is very important to keep equipment dry. Moisture promotes bacterial growth and breaks down equipment.
- Use long sleeve and long pants underwear and socks (for feet) to absorb moisture and protect your skin from bacteria in the equipment.
- Don’t leave equipment zippered in your bag between use. Take all equipment out to air dry.