Beginner Ice Skates for Kids: Go-to Guide

Written By: Brennen | November 8, 2024

Looking for beginner ice skates for your kids? Ice skating is a fantastic way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and, most importantly, have fun! At Riedell, we make it easy for skaters of all ages to find the perfect fit and join our vibrant skating community. With help from some of our experts, discover the right ice skates for young skaters just starting out.

3 Essentials to Kids’ Beginner Ice Skates

Before purchasing ice skates for your child, keep these three factors in mind:

  1. Choose the Right Model
  2. Get the Right Fit
  3. Invest in Quality

When it comes to beginners, choosing the right model is essential. Look for skates that balance comfort, durability, and ankle support so your child can build confidence as they learn. Quality beginner skates should also be easy to maintain and affordable, making them the ideal choice for families.

For beginners, the Riedell Horizon set is an excellent choice. Designed with young skaters in mind, the Horizon set combines comfort, support, and ease of use—everything a beginner needs for a great start on the ice.

Here’s why it’s perfect for kids just starting:

  • Ankle Support: The Horizon skates provide just the right level of support to help young skaters build confidence. With reinforced ankles, these skates help prevent wobbling, giving your child the stability they need to learn.
  • Comfort Fit: Beginner skates should feel comfortable, and hours of practice should be encouraged without strain. The Horizon skate has a soft, padded interior that molds to the foot so your child can focus on having fun.
  • Durable Build: Kids can be hard on their skates, especially when learning. The Horizon set is crafted with durable materials that stand up to the bumps and tumbles of practice, meaning they’ll last longer and look great through it all.
  • Easy Maintenance: These skates are designed to be easy to care for, helping parents keep them in top shape without much hassle. Simply wipe them down after use, and they’re ready for the next session!

With the Riedell Horizon skates, your child will have everything they need to enjoy skating safely and comfortably from day one.

Frequently Asked Questions about Beginner Ice Skates for Kids

Riedell’s VP, Dan Riegelman, answers questions on what to look for when buying kids’ ice skates.

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How Do I Know What Size Ice Skates To Buy for My Child?

Getting the perfect fit is simple with Riedell. Just visit one of our dealers, where we use a specialized measuring tool to find your child’s correct size. The process is quick and precise—your child will place their foot on the tool while seated and standing to ensure accuracy. 

Once we have the size, we’ll use a width card to determine the proper width for a snug, supportive fit.

From there, we’ll help you choose a pair of skates that will provide the best comfort, support, and performance for your child—especially important for beginners. Our high-quality skates ensure your young skater can focus on building their skills with confidence and comfort!

Are Kids’ Skate Sizes the Same as Shoe Sizes?

Contrary to what many might think, skate sizes don’t always match regular shoe sizes! That’s why getting a proper fitting is so important when buying skates for your child. It can be tempting to go a size up so they “grow into” them, but oversized skates can lead to several issues:

  • Poor Performance: When skates are too big, it’s difficult for young skaters to control their movements on the ice. A snug fit is crucial for balance, especially for beginners as they build confidence.
  • Foot Irritation and Blisters: Extra room in skates means feet can slide around, causing friction that leads to irritation and painful blisters. This discomfort can discourage young skaters and even cause them to avoid skating altogether.
  • Decreased Support: Skates that are too large won’t provide the necessary ankle support. This can lead to wobbling, instability, and even injury—definitely not what you want when your child is starting out!
  • Product Longevity: Oversized skates experience more wear and tear, which can lead to product failure. Skates are designed to be durable when fitted properly, so buying the correct size ensures they last through the season.

Choose a size that fits snugly and comfortably to get the most out of a pair of skates. Well-fitting skates will keep your child skating happily and safely so they can make the most of their time on the ice. Be ready to size up as your child grows, but aim to buy skates that fit well for at least one full season.

What Kind of Ice Skates Are Good for Beginners?

When choosing ice skates for a beginner, it’s important to consider their comfort, support, and the type of skating they’ll be doing. 

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide which style may be best for your child:

  • Figure Skates: These skates are excellent for beginners learning the basics.
  • Hockey Skates: Hockey skates are another solid option, especially if your child is interested in learning to skate quickly or plans to play hockey. 
  • Adjustable Ice Skates: These skates are perfect for young skaters still growing. Adjustable skates can be resized to accommodate foot growth, so you won’t need to replace them as often.

For beginners, it’s all about finding a skate that offers stability, comfort, and the right fit. Whether you choose figure, hockey, or adjustable skates, a properly fitted pair will allow your child to learn safely and confidently!

Find the Right Skate for Your Child with Riedell

Choosing the perfect ice skates for your child doesn’t have to be complicated! At Riedell, we’re here to help you find a pair that fits well, supports their needs, and sets them up for success on the ice. 

With our quality skates, expert fitting tools, and dedicated team, you can feel confident that your young skater is in good hands. Let’s make their skating experience one they’ll love from the very first glide!