Where can I find extra long recreational strap on ice skates?

Question

My son is only 14, but is in size 16 shoes & growing. I hate to spend a lot of money on custom skates, since we only skate recreationally. Strap on skates could be used as he grows.

Answer 1

Strap on skates are usually meant for small toddlers so I don't think that you could find them large enough. Small toddlers typically use these skates and are able to actually stand because they are so light, and the strap on skates have very small, blades that aren't sharp so they don't dig into the ice or give you any grip. Most toddlers slide on the ice with them, and putting a large teenager on them could be very scary. I would suggest talking to your local skate pro shop to see what they can do for such a large feet :)

Answer 2

NOOOOOOO Strap on skates are terrible!  Try looking for used skates.  The boot of the skate provides support, and with strap ons, you can't skate well.

Answer 3

I don't think they make skates that you can strap to your street shoes that large.  The only ones I have seen in my many years of skating are the double blade variety and they're made for very young children.......which don't come recommened by anyone I know.  Even for the little guys, one good stride and those babies go flying half way across the rink!  :)  

Try checking with a used sporting goods store to see if they have a used skate in his size that won't cost as much as a new pair.  Also check eBay.  Sometimes there are deals on there for used skates of all types and sizes.  If you end up going with a new skate, he could probably get away with buying them at least a half-size up.  If he's skating recreationally, a recreational skate, even new, should not cost too much... online or at a store.  Depending on what kind of skate he's looking for, a skate shop could order him a low end/recreational skate without having to get customs.  Some skate shops even sell used skates on consignment.  :)