How do I tell if a skate fits properly?
1. Unlace the boot very loosely and pull the tongue forward as far as the laces go.
2. While seated, insert the foot. Slide it all the way forward, being sure to keep toes flat.
3. Check to see if you can insert your index finger behind the heel. Ideally, it’s a tight squeeze -- only half a finger width is recommended. If you can get a full finger in, the boot is too long. If you can’t fit it in at all, the boot may be too small.
4. Now kick the heel to the very back of the boot. Curl the tongue in around the foot and ankle and do up the laces firmly, but not too tightly. If there is extra lace, do NOT wrap it around the ankle. You can go back down and run it up the hooks of the skate one more time, and/or double knot it at the top.
5. Take a walk in the skates. Heels of both feet should NOT lift at all, and should be snugly in the skate. This is the most vital of fitting steps!!!! The heel should always stay snugly in the heel cup of the skate.
6. The skater should be able to stand up completely straight, without any leaning in or out around the ankle area. If the ankles are buckling while standing, the skates do NOT have enough support.
7. If the skater can walk comfortably, supported through the ankle area, with the heels snugly in the heel cups and no toes touching the fronts of the skates, you have found a good fit!!!