How to Size a Figure Skate: Ditch the Guesswork

Proper sizing is the most important step when shopping for a new pair of figure skates. Whether you’re a beginner or a competitive skater, the right fit affects everything from comfort to performance. But before you pick a style or color, you need to know how to size a figure skate the right way.

Unlike street shoes, figure skates must fit snugly and offer full support. Choosing the wrong size can lead to blisters, poor balance, or even long-term injury. 

This guide explains how to measure for figure skates, fit them properly, and avoid common mistakes, both in person and online.

Why You Shouldn’t Use Shoe Size Alone

One of the biggest mistakes skaters make is assuming their skate size matches their shoe size. In most cases, that isn’t true.

Figure skates are often smaller than regular shoes. Your exact size can depend on your foot shape, the brand of skate, and your level of experience. 

As a general rule:

• Women should start by going down ½ to 1 full size from their street shoes.
• Men may wear the same size or ½ size smaller, depending on the fit.
• Kids may find skates that match their shoe size, but check each brand’s chart.

Expert Tip: Every skate brand has its own sizing chart. Always use brand-specific information when learning how to size skates.

Fitting Figure Skates

After you find the right size, the next step is making sure the skate sizes fit your feet properly. Good-fitting figure skates should feel snug, not painful.

When trying on skates, follow this method:

• Tap your heel to the back of the boot, so your foot is fully seated.
• Lace from the toe upward, using even, firm pressure.
• Use slightly lighter pressure at the top to allow ankle flexibility.
• Stand up on the skates. Your toes should lightly brush the front of the boot.
• Your heel should stay firmly in place without lifting.

The skates should feel snug at first but not uncomfortable or painful. Your toes should not curl. Your foot should not slide inside the boot.

How Does Break-in Affect the Fit of My Skates? 

The break-in period allows the skate’s padding and materials to mold to your foot shape. Initially, skates may feel stiff or tight, but they should not be painful. 

As you skate more, the fit becomes more comfortable and customized. This natural adjustment helps improve support, control, and overall performance.

What Width Should I Choose?

Choose the width that matches your foot’s shape: narrow, regular, or wide. Most brands offer width options, labeled with letters like A (narrow) or D (wide). Measure your foot’s widest point and compare it to the sizing chart. A proper width ensures comfort and support, preventing pressure points while skating.

How to Size Figure Skates at Home

If you don’t have access to a skate shop, you can still measure your foot at home. It’s simple, and it only takes a few minutes.

Follow these steps:

1. Place a blank sheet of paper on a flat, hard surface like wood or tile.
2. Stand barefoot with one foot on the paper and your heel against a wall.
3. Mark the longest part of your foot—usually the big toe—with a pencil.
4. Measure the distance from the edge of the paper (at the wall) to the toe mark in centimeters.
5. Repeat with the other foot. Use the longer length when choosing your skate size.

Once you’ve measured your foot, compare it to the brand’s sizing chart. Don’t just convert it to shoe size. Each brand builds its skates differently, and some are available in narrow or wide widths.

If possible, also measure your foot’s width at its widest point. Some skates are available in narrow, medium, or wide widths to improve the fit.

What to Avoid When Sizing Skates

Sizing mistakes are common, especially when buying figure skates online. For example, guessing your size based on street shoes can lead to a poor fit. Many skaters also skip the sizing chart or choose skates that are too big, thinking they need room to grow.

Another mistake is trying on skates with thick socks, which can affect how the boot fits and feels. Some skaters also confuse a snug break-in fit with the skates being too small. Skates should feel tight at first because the padding will compress over time. 

However, they should never cause pain or numbness. 

Quick Fit Checklist

Before you buy, run through this checklist to make sure you’ve followed every step:

• Measure both feet on a hard surface
• Compare your measurements to the correct sizing chart
• Check for width options if you have wide or narrow feet
• Try on skates with thin socks or barefoot
• Feel your toes brush the front without curling
• Confirm the heel stayed locked in place during standing
  

Taking a few extra minutes to check these items can make a big difference in how your skates perform.

What If One Foot Is Bigger Than the Other?

It’s common to have one foot slightly larger than the other. When choosing a size, always fit the larger foot to ensure comfort and prevent pressure points. A boot that’s too tight can lead to pain, numbness, or injury. For the smaller foot, use a gel pad, insole, or thicker sock to improve the fit. 

Some advanced skaters may order custom boots, but that’s not necessary for most. If the difference is minor, standard boots should work with simple adjustments to padding or lacing. 

Expert Tip: You can also try to find boots that offer split sizing. At Riedell, we offer split sizing, for customized and regular boots. 

Choose Size and Style

The anatomy of ice skates can be tricky. Learning how to size a figure skate correctly will help you get the most out of every session on the ice. Measure carefully and make sure the skates fit snugly with no pain.

Whether you’re learning your first spin or landing advanced jumps, the right fit should provide confidence, control, and safety. With the proper size, you can enjoy the sport and progress with every glide.