Is your little one dreaming of gliding gracefully across the ice, maybe even performing a spin or two? Figure skating is a fantastic activity for kids, offering a wonderful blend of physical exercise, artistic expression, and discipline. But before they can truly shine, they need the right equipment. Choosing the best figure skates for kids is crucial for ensuring comfort, safety, and proper development on the ice.
With so many options out there, from beginner-friendly adjustable skates to more traditional lace-ups, it can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, reviewing some of the top choices available. We’ve focused on important factors like ankle support, comfort, durability, and ease of use to help you find the perfect pair of figure skates for kids that will make their time on the ice truly enjoyable.
Let’s lace up and dive into our top picks!
Our Top 7 Picks for Kids’ Figure Skates
1. Jackson Classic 200 Womens/Girls Figure Ice Skates
The Jackson Classic 200 is often lauded as a fantastic starting point for young skaters taking their first steps onto the ice. These skates are designed with beginners in mind, offering light recreational support that’s essential for building confidence and good habits. The reinforced vinyl upper with a rolled collar and padded lining ensures a comfortable fit without irritating delicate skin, making those early skating lessons much more enjoyable. Plus, they come with a factory-sharpened Ultima Mark I blade, meaning your child can hit the ice almost immediately after unboxing!
- Light Recreational Support
- Reinforced coated vinyl upper with rolled collar and padded lining
- Padded felt tongues for comfort and support
- Factory sharpened Ultima Mark I blade for immediate use
- Attached to PVC sole with rivets for better security
Pros:
– Excellent support for new skaters
– Comfortable padded interior
– Blades come pre-sharpened, ready for the ice
– Durable construction for recreational use
Cons:
– Fixed sizing means no room for growing feet
– May require professional sharpening after initial wear
User Impressions:
Parents frequently praise these skates for their immediate usability and the comfort they provide, making the “learn to skate” journey much smoother. Many note that the quality for the price is exceptional, especially for a well-known brand like Jackson.
2. Lake Placid Summit Girl’s Adjustable Ice Skate White/Mint
For parents looking for a smart, long-term investment as their child grows, the Lake Placid Summit Adjustable Skates are a brilliant choice. These innovative skates feature a simple push-button mechanism that allows you to easily adjust the size through multiple shoe sizes. This means your child won’t outgrow them in a single season, saving you money and hassle. Beyond the adjustability, they boast a warm, comfortable lining and a durable stainless steel blade, perfect for recreational use and beginners.
- Push-button size adjustable
- Warm, Woven lining and Deluxe comfort Padding
- Stainless steel blade
- Waterproof sole
- Locking Buckle and Power Strap for secure fit
Pros:
– Adjustable sizing extends the life of the skates
– Comfortable and warm for extended wear
– Easy-to-use buckles for quick on and off
– Durable stainless steel blade
Cons:
– Adjustable boots might offer slightly less rigid support than traditional fixed boots
– Some users prefer the feel of traditional laces
User Impressions:
Customers love the convenience of the adjustable sizing, often highlighting how well these skates accommodate growth spurts. The comfort and ease of use, especially the buckles, are frequently mentioned as major positives for young, independent skaters.
3. Lake Placid Cascade Girl’s Figure Ice Skates White Size 3
The Lake Placid Cascade skates offer a blend of traditional design with modern comfort, making them a solid choice for aspiring young figure skaters. They feature a synthetic upper outer boot with firm ankle support, which is vital for developing proper technique and preventing injuries during those first few years of skating. The warm, woven liners with comfort padding ensure little feet stay cozy, while the reinforced lacing hooks help achieve a snug and secure fit.
- Synthetic Upper outer boot with firm ankle support
- Warm, woven liners with Comfort Padding
- Stainless steel blade
- Reinforced lacing hooks
- Waterproof sole
Pros:
– Good firm ankle support for skill development
– Warm and comfortable interior
– Durable stainless steel blade
– Reinforced lacing hooks ensure a secure fit
Cons:
– Fixed size, so no room for growth
– Requires manual lacing, which might be tricky for very young children
User Impressions:
Many parents appreciate the classic look and feel of these skates, noting the good ankle support as a key factor for their child’s progress. The warmth of the lining is also a common positive, especially for colder rinks.
4. Jackson Classic Pink SoftSkate 380 Womens/Girls Ice Figure
For the fashion-forward young skater who prioritizes comfort, the Jackson Classic Pink SoftSkate 380 is a standout. These skates offer medium recreational support, making them perfect for beginners and those just starting lessons. What truly sets them apart is their incredible comfort – thanks to the padded covered tongue and thick soft padded rolled collar. The cute white and pink design adds a touch of fun, while the no-maintenance PVC outsoles and factory-sharpened Ultima Mark I blade mean they’re ready for action right out of the box.
- Medium recreational support for beginners
- Reinforced vinyl upper with strength and durability
- Padded covered tongue and thick soft padded rolled collar for comfort and warmth
- Traditional looking Antique tan colors, no maintenance PVC outsoles
- Factory sharpened Ultima Mark I blade is excellent for beginners
Pros:
– Outstanding comfort with plush padding
– Stylish white/pink design that kids love
– Ready to skate with pre-sharpened blades
– Good support for introductory skating
Cons:
– Fixed size limits longevity
– Medium support might not be enough for advanced maneuvers
User Impressions:
Customers rave about the softness and comfort, often stating that their children love wearing these skates. The attractive pink accents are also a big hit, making these a popular choice for young girls eager to hit the ice in style.
5. Bladerunner by Rollerblade Allure Girls Figure Skates, Ice
Bladerunner, a name synonymous with quality recreational skates, delivers with the Allure Girls Figure Skates. These are an ideal entry-level option for beginners and casual ice skaters who want a balance of comfort, support, and low maintenance. The reinforced uppers provide crucial ankle stability, while ample padding in the tongue and ankle areas ensures a snug, cushioned fit. Paired with durable stainless steel figure blades that hold their edge longer, these skates are built to provide consistent, hassle-free performance.
- IDEAL ENTRY LEVEL FIGURE SKATE with optimal comfort and support
- REINFORCED UPPERS WITH ANKLE SUPPORT for stability and great fit
- COMFORTABLE PADDING in tongue and ankle areas
- LACE CLOSURE WITH LACE HOOKS for a custom fit
- STAINLESS STEEL FIGURE BLADES with toe picks for consistent performance and minimal maintenance
Pros:
– Excellent choice for first-time skaters
– Good ankle support combined with comfort
– Maintenance-free PVC outsole
– Durable, rust-resistant stainless steel blades
Cons:
– Fixed size, which means they won’t grow with your child
– Lace closure might take longer to put on than buckles
User Impressions:
Reviewers consistently praise the Allure skates for their comfortable fit and the solid support they offer to new skaters. The quality of the blades and the overall durability are also frequently highlighted, making them a great value for recreational use.
6. TUYUU Ice Skate Guards, Skate Guards for Hockey…
While not a figure skate themselves, skate guards are an absolutely essential accessory for anyone who owns a pair of best figure skates for kids. These TUYUU Ice Skate Guards protect your valuable skate blades from damage when walking off the ice and, crucially, absorb moisture to prevent rust. Made from water-resistant oxford fabric with an absorbent terrycloth lining, they ensure your child’s blades stay dry and sharp for longer. They come in three sizes to fit various skate types and make a perfect thoughtful gift for any young skater.
- Protects different kinds of skate blades (Hockey, Figure, Ice Skates)
- Constructed with premium & water-resistant oxford fabric with absorbent terrycloth lining
- Wide and ultra cut-resistant nylon on the bottom for walking on concrete
- Inner terry lining absorbs excess water to prevent rusting
- Available in small, medium, & large sizes to fit most skates
Pros:
– Essential for protecting skate blades from damage and rust
– Absorbs moisture effectively
– Durable and cut-resistant material for walking off-ice
– Available in multiple sizes and fun colors
Cons:
– Does not provide any skating function (it’s an accessory, not a skate)
– Must be removed before skating (obvious, but worth noting for new users)
User Impressions:
Customers are highly satisfied with the protective qualities and durability of these guards. They appreciate the variety of sizes and colors, and many highlight how crucial they are for maintaining the longevity and sharpness of their children’s figure skate blades.
7. Lake Placid Girls Nitro 8.8 Adjustable Figure Ice Skate
Rounding out our list of the best figure skates for kids is another excellent adjustable option from Lake Placid – the Nitro 8.8. These skates feature a molded shell with a hinged cuff for robust support, making them a great choice for active young skaters. The “EZ Push Button Adjustable Sizing” means they can easily grow with your child through several sizes, extending their usability. Plus, the locking quick-fit buckles make them super easy for kids to put on and take off by themselves, fostering independence, and the washable comfort fill liner keeps them fresh.
- BOOT Molded Shell with Hinged Cuff
- LINING Washable Comfort Fill Liner
- CLOSURE Locking Quick Fit Buckles for Stability and Easy On and Off
- BLADE Carbon Steel (Nickel Plated, Heat Treated)
- SIZING EZ Push Button Adjustable Sizing: Small (11-13); Medium (1-4); Large (4-7)
Pros:
– Excellent adjustable sizing for growing feet
– Easy-to-use quick-fit buckles
– Washable liner for hygiene and freshness
– Good support from the molded shell
Cons:
– Molded boots might feel less traditional than leather/vinyl boots
– Carbon steel blades require good maintenance to prevent rust
User Impressions:
Parents frequently praise the ease of adjustability and the convenience of the buckles for young children. The washable liner is also a big hit, making these skates easy to keep clean and fresh, which is a huge plus for active kids.
What to Look For When Buying Figure Skates for Kids
When searching for the best figure skates for kids, keep these key factors in mind:
- Ankle Support: This is paramount for young skaters. Good ankle support helps prevent injury and aids in developing proper skating technique. Look for skates with firm, reinforced uppers.
- Comfort: If the skates aren’t comfortable, your child won’t want to wear them. Padded linings, soft collars, and well-cushioned tongues are signs of a comfy fit.
- Fit: Skates should fit snugly but not be painful. There shouldn’t be much heel lift. A proper fit ensures control and prevents blisters. Avoid buying skates with “room to grow” if they compromise the fit too much.
- Adjustability: For rapidly growing feet, adjustable skates can be a game-changer, offering several seasons of use. However, sometimes fixed-size boots can offer more rigid support.
- Blade Quality: Stainless steel or carbon steel blades are standard. Make sure they come sharpened or are taken to a professional for sharpening before first use. Don’t forget skate guards for protection!
- Ease of Use: Buckles can be easier for younger kids to manage independently, while laces offer a more customizable, snug fit.
FAQ: Your Questions About Kids’ Figure Skates Answered
Q1: How do I know what size figure skates my child needs?
A1: The best way is to measure your child’s foot length (heel to toe) and width, then compare it to the manufacturer’s sizing chart. It’s often recommended to go one size up from their regular shoe size for skates, but always check the specific brand’s recommendations. Skates should fit snugly but not uncomfortably tight, with minimal heel movement.
Q2: Are adjustable figure skates a good idea for kids?
A2: Absolutely! Adjustable figure skates are a fantastic option for growing children. They allow the skates to expand through several sizes, providing multiple seasons of use and saving parents money. While they might offer slightly less rigid support than some traditional fixed boots, modern adjustable skates are designed to provide ample support for recreational and beginner skaters.
Q3: How important is ankle support for young skaters?
A3: Ankle support is incredibly important, especially for beginners. It helps prevent wobbling, reduces the risk of ankle injuries, and allows children to develop proper posture and technique. Look for skates with reinforced uppers and firm ankle areas.
Q4: Do figure skates come pre-sharpened?
A4: Many beginner and recreational figure skates, particularly those for kids, come “factory sharpened.” This means they’re ready to use right out of the box for basic skating. However, for optimal performance and a better edge, many experienced skaters recommend having new skates professionally sharpened before the first use.
Q5: What’s the best way to maintain kids’ figure skates?
A5: After each use, dry the blades thoroughly with a towel to prevent rust. Store them with skate guards (like the TUYUU Ice Skate Guards reviewed above) to protect the blades when off the ice. If the skates have a liner, ensure it airs out completely. For traditional laced skates, loosen the laces before storing to help the boot dry and maintain its shape.
Q6: When is a child ready for figure skating lessons?
A6: Most rinks offer “learn to skate” programs for children as young as 3 or 4 years old. The main indicators of readiness are the ability to follow instructions, a willingness to try new things, and basic motor skills like balancing and standing independently. Having the right, comfortable skates definitely helps!
Q7: What are toe picks used for on figure skates?
A7: Toe picks are the serrated teeth at the front of the figure skate blade. They are primarily used for jumps, spins, and intricate footwork in figure skating. For beginners, they’re mostly there but not actively used for propulsion; new skaters are taught to avoid using them until they’ve mastered basic gliding.
Glide into Fun!
Choosing the best figure skates for kids is an exciting step on their journey into the world of ice skating. Whether you prioritize adjustability for growing feet, maximum comfort for hours of fun, or solid support for those first lessons, there’s a perfect pair out there. We hope this guide helps you make an informed decision and gets your little skater ready to enjoy all the magic the ice has to offer!