What blade is suitable for a skater doing doubles?

Question

i just got my new boots last night [ow..] and i need to order some blades to go with. the new boots are Risport RF2 Supers, and the last blade i had were Wilson Coronation Ace so i want something better this time, but i like the John Wilson brand in general..

[i did ask my coach but she just said it didnt matter what blade i got] but i'd like to know what would be the best for doing double jumps and what blade helps with spins [my weak point].

thanks for helpin out!!!

p.s. is it true that if you get a different type of toe pick that you have to re-learn all your jumps? a skater told me that so it held me back from getting Pattern 99s with the different toe pick cuz i was scared id have to re learn my jumps

Answer 1

I really like MKs.  I agree with the other writer who said you won't have to relearn your jumps, it may just take some time getting used to the new balance point, etc.  But if you got new boots you're going to be adjusting anyway.  May as well do it all at once.  I found that MK Professionals worked fine for doubles, and they're cheaper than some of the others.  I think Phantoms are awesome, but expensive if your not really committed.  A good, mid-point are the Visions, which have the Phantom toe-pick, but are priced closer to Professionals.

Answer 2

For doubles and higher I would recommend Phantoms, Pattern 99s, Gold Stars, or Gold Seals. They're expensive but they're worth it. I have Pattern 99s and can't imagine being in anything else. The toe-pick does take some getting used to if you've had a smaller pick before, but it's not hard. I find that they make the jumps much easier and more secure, and with an 8' rocker you'll glide with a lot less effort, although that can make spins and turns a bit harder at first.  

Most professional boot fitters will agree with your coach that it doesn't "matter" what blade you have - it's really personal preference. Although, at my training facility, most people who have a consistent axel and at least one consistent double move to one of the blades I mentioned above.

Answer 3

Check johnwilsonskates.com.  They have a suggested useage chart which is pretty handy for figuring out which John Wilson or MK blade to get for your level.  It lists the blade models by all USFSA, ISI and Canadian levels.  Just pick your approximate test level and it shows you which blades are recommended for that level.  There's also a link to MK blades and a usage chart for them as well.

I've never had a problem with jumps when transitioning from blade to blade.  Spinning takes a little adjustment.  I've had a few "hand-me-down" blades and haven't really had problems switching.  I've had everything from Gold Seals to Coronation Comets to the old Vantage blades, and have liked them all.

Good luck!

Answer 4

When I was doing double jumps I used the Phantom blade for the lower level doubles (salchow, toe and loop) and moved up to the Gold Star when I started doing higher level jumps.  I can't remember if these blades are JW or MK.

The Phantom and Pattern 99 are very similar blades and yes the toe picks take some getting used to but no, you won't have to re-learn all of your jumps.