For the beginning skater, it is recommended to rent skates.  Some of the advantages of renting skates are:  reduced cost, properly sharpened skates, supportive leather boot, etc.

Generally at Freestyle 1, it is recommended that you purchase your own skates with the guidance of instructor/coach. Which skate depends on the size, age, and ability of a skater.

HOW DO I PURCHASE FIGURE SKATES?

Numerous options are available:  checking bulletin board for used ice skates, sport shops, magazines, and the internet.  Before your purchase skates, it is highly recommended you contact your instructor/coach.

HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO SHARPEN MY SKATES?

You should get in the habit of inspecting your skates each time you dry off the blades, and when there are dulled or there are a lot of nicks, get them sharpened.  The usual test for sharpness is dragging a fingernail lightly over the edge—if it planes off a little sliver, they’re sharp, if it just slides, then they’re dull.  It is not unusual for blades to wear unevenly.  For example, the inside edges may wear more quickly than the outside edges or the fronts more quickly than the tails.

WHERE DO I GET MY SKATES SHARPENED?

Skate sharpening services are offered at many sport shops or Dan Heck.

HOW DO I KNOW MY SKATES ARE WORN OUT?

Ask your instructor/coach for their recommendation.

WHERE DO I PURCHASE ICE SKATING APPAREL?

Ice Skating apparel can be purchased at Crystal Ice Figure Skating Club Swap Sale (usually in December), skating magazines, Pro Shop and the internet.