Ice skates, help please

[noriceskates]

Hi! I’m new here, but i’ve been skating for a little bit. I’ve just started bronze free on skate UK (i think that’s what it’s called). It’s been on and off with covid and other unrelated things but i’m back skating very regularly. I’m just looking for a bit of advice here. Currently i’ve got some Graf Davos Golds (I think they’re called that) and i’m just wondering if getting a new pair would be worth it, and if anyone could recommend any brands? I’m looking at around £150? Something like that.

[transmissionoftheflame]

I think if you're at that level and skate regularly and mean to continue then it's probably worth taking a step up in quality and the price you suggest seems about right.  At that price I would say all the brands are decent and you really need to try on as many as possible to find out which shape suits you best.  I think getting a boot where the blades can be removed and replaced is worth it as blades may wear or be damaged - so I would avoid getting a boot with the blades rivetted onto the sole.
If you care to say roughly where you are in the country then members may be able to suggest good skate shops within reasonable travelling distance.

[noriceskates]

I’m Nottingham way.

[transmissionoftheflame]

People on here have recommended the shop in Blackpool and the one in Gosport - both are far away from you!  I know there is a shop in Nottingham but know nothing about it.  I guess fellow skaters and coaches from your rink should know a bit about what shops are near you.


Rod Turner doesn't have a shop but they do have a lot of skates - you could possibly arrange a visit to where they are based in Solihull.  They used to sharpen in Nottingham but not sure if that's still the case.  His email address is in the sharpening thread started recently.


Good luck and try on as many as you can and don't buy unless you're pretty convinced.