Your blades can significantly transform your hockey game. That’s why we are dedicated to enhancing your overall performance by optimizing your blades and providing expert insights.
blade basics
READING TIME: 3 MINUTES
COMPLETE GUIDE TO SKATE BLADES
Blade Overview
Our solution for elite players seeking top performance is Integrated Sharpening & Profiling (ISP™), using advanced technology to upgrade your blade for consistent performance.
We'll explore the basics of hockey skate properties, like hollow, profiling, and pitch. These factors play a crucial role in tailoring skates to a unique playstyle, profoundly impacting overall performance on the ice.
HOCKEY SKATE BLADES, ALSO KNOWN AS 'RUNNERS' OR 'STEEL'
FRONT VIEW
Did you know your blade actually has 2 edges?
BLADE CROSS-SECTION
Outside edge = Furthest from player’s body
Inside edge = Closest to player’s body
WHAT IS HOLLOW?
DEPTH OF THE BLADE'S GROOVE
The hollow refers to the depth of the blade's groove, measured in inches.
Since body type and skating style affect performance, we suggest experimenting, as you can follow the general guide below according to your personal preference:
SMALLER hollow = more GRIP (better for control)
LARGER hollow = more GLIDE (better for speed)
Hollow chart
Skatescribe offers additional hollow depths beyond the below diagram
SMALLER RADIUS
DEEPER HOLLOW
- Better grip (bite)
- Faster take-offs
- Faster stops
- Sharper turns
LARGER RADIUS
SHALLOWER HOLLOW
- Smoother glide
- Higher top speed
- Less resistance
- Easier transitioning
WHAT IS PROFILING?
also known as a 'rocker' or 'contour'
BLADE SIDE VIEW: NOT TO SCALE
The profile shapes the blade’s curvature within the glide zone, influencing contact with the ice surface. Profiles enhance performance by aligning with individual skating styles:
@{#D61919}Smaller Radius (A)@ = less blade to ice contact, increases bite / acceleration
@{#009000}Larger Radius (B)@ = more blade to ice contact, increases glide / top speed
WHAT IS PITCH?
ANGLE OF THE SKATE BLADE
Pitch is another crucial aspect of blade profiling that affects how your skates feel and perform. It determines whether the blade angles forward, stays neutral, or leans backward, influencing your foot’s angle as well as your posture and balance.
Pitch Chart
Higher numerical value = steeper / larger angle
- Forward pitch (+1 to +10)
- Neutral pitch (0)
- Backward pitch (-1 to -10)
-
FORWARD PITCH (+)
Forward-angled boots enhance acceleration and speed but make quick stops challenging.
-
NEUTRAL PITCH (0)
Boots parallel to the ice ensure optimal balance, enhancing speed, acceleration, and stopping ability.
-
BACKWARD PITCH (-)
Backward-angled boots enhance overall stability but may limit acceleration and maximum speed.
Unlock your potential with precision blades for consistent, tailored performance.
