Boots and blades for someone who wants to do long track/marathons but practices at a short track club?

Question

I started speed skating last year and borrowed another club members boots, using them along with my used and not in great condition blades (I think they're Bont Maples but I don't have them in front of me and can't say for sure). Like the question says, I practice on a small rink in the MASA network and have only practiced for short distances, but am really interested in longer distances.

I want to have my skates set up, ready to go and at least one practice on them before the season starts again next month, so does anyone have any advice on what equipment to get (if there are even any speed skaters on here)?

I'm a former figure skater and am not completely comfortable on long blades yet...not sure if that matters for anyone's recommendations. I used 15" blades last year and was okay on those (size 38 boot - 7.5 American sizing). My figure blades are 9.75" for comparison. Should I just go for the long blades and forget about what I'm used to?

Answer 1

I would worry about getting your technique better before getting the longer blades.  I see new skaters wanting to get the longest blades right away, but getting the technique down right away is far more beneficial.  

How tall are you?  you may want to get slightly longer blades if you are over 5'6...to perhaps 16"  Most girls do not go much longer than that unless you are powerful enough to push that much blade

Are you also skating on a long track rink?? If you are, you may think about getting some clap-skates for that, since the blade rocker/bend is quite different than short track blades

btw, when you get to a top level, short track blades are actually just as long or longer than most long track blades.

anyways, hope this helps and if you have any other questions, feel free to contact me

edit:  I grew up training in a small hockey rink as well (i.e., not olympic size short track), so it just helps you stay tighter to the corner, no big deal.

If you are 5'6 you could possible move up abit on blade size, but 15" is perfectly fine for now.  Once you feel more comfortable move up to 16 or 16.5

As far as brands...I usually skated on the Maple golds, and I know alot of guys skate on the bonts.  I really dont think that the blade makes too much difference until you start bending your blades.  (the better blades hold the bends better)

Answer 2

you borrowed someone elses boots?

did yo smell your feet afterwards? lol