Is it ok to buy a second hand pair of skates?

Question

im considering a pair of skates that have been used by someone else, and i really need them because its very hard with rentals. my size is normally outta stock, so my feet are cramped into a smaller skate [which KILLS]

they dont have any skate shops here, so i can only buy second hand, or wait till i go to the states in the summer.

what do you think?

btw, how much do average second hand skates cost?

Answer 1

absolutely. my skates cost $125 for a Jackson FS. once you get your own skates, your feet and skating performance should imprive

Answer 2

Given your situation, I think it's a good idea.  First off, practically anything is better than using rental skates when you're learning to skate.  But secondly, being forced to wear the wrong size is going to hurt your progress anyway.  So I would do what it takes to get in a skate that fits you right.

Secondhand skates can be a great deal on quality skates, as long as they are not too broken down so that they still have ankle support.  If you think they are not too trashed, it's worth it to get the right size.

Also, I don't know if you're using hockey or figure skates. My understanding is that hockey skates get REALLY trashed and in that case it may not be a good buy for you.

You can usually find used skates for about half the price of what they cost new, depending on how worn in they are.

Answer 3

Firstly are they in good condition i.e. the sides not broken down and secondly do they fit you properly.  If the sides do not give enough support they will not be any good for you.

I got lucky on eBay and got some for £15 inc p+p but this may not be ideal for everyone.

Answer 4

I'm actually trying to sell my pair of skates still.

It's still in good condition, and they are for beginnners/recreational skating so we bought them for $50, and we cut the price in half and selling them for $25 now.

Second hand pair of skates would usually be a lot less price than the original amount. (great deals (: )

Answer 5

Why not?

Its not like a car is it?

Answer 6

Well...from personal experience, I would just say to wait and buy a really good pair if you are serious about this. It's best because that way you can get fitting for your skates and they can adjust it to your foot shape.

However, squeezing your feet into skates that are too small can be really bad for you. Not only is it painful, it messes up your jumps and just normal skating since its constricting your movements. If you are currently skating a LOT/taking classes or something like that, I would advise you to get skates second-hand only if you can't get them from a store. [and it sounds like you can't] However, you need to make sure that they FIT! Its has to be a slightly tight fit [but not hurting] so you have really good control.

But I must urge to you that really, getting your feet fitted for skates is the best way to go.

Oh, and second-hand skates can range anywhere from $15-$110. If they are begining skates and not that good qualutly, I would get some in the $20-$50 range. Those are usually pretty good skates for begineres and arn't completely messed up. If you want a little more professional ones, $55-$100