A Guide to Skate Baking

🔥 What is Skate Baking?

Skate baking is a process that helps mould new ice hockey or figure skates to the unique shape of your foot, making them more comfortable and improving your performance on the ice.

During baking, skates are heated in a specialized skate oven to soften the materials. Once warm, the skates are laced onto your feet and left to cool, forming a custom fit around your foot shape and ankle structure.

👣 Why Bake Skates?

Most mid-to-high-end skates are thermoformable, meaning they’re designed to be heat-moulded for an optimal fit. Here’s why skate baking is highly recommended:

• ✅ Break-in Faster: Baking speeds up the break-in process significantly

• ✅ Custom Fit: The skate forms to your foot shape for better comfort

• ✅ Better Performance: A snugger fit improves control, responsiveness, and energy transfer

• ✅ Reduces Pain: Helps minimize pressure points, hotspots, or blisters

⚠️ Can I Bake My Skates at Home?

While some tutorials exist for home skate baking using kitchen ovens, we strongly advise against this. Improper heat or timing can:

• Damage the skate materials

• Void your manufacturer warranty

• Ruin the skate's structure

At CCM Australia, we use professional-grade skate ovens to ensure safe and even heat application. Our experienced staff will guide you through the fitting process for the best results.

🔧 The Skate Baking Process (In-Store)

Here’s what to expect when you get your skates baked with us:

1. Pre-Check: We inspect your skates to confirm they’re thermoformable

2. Heat Activation: Skates are placed in the oven for around 2–4 minutes

3. Lacing & Fit: While warm, skates are carefully laced onto your feet

4. Cooling Phase: You sit still for about 15-20 minutes while the skates cool and form

5. Post-Fit Adjustments: We check for fit and advise on any next steps

💡 Tip: Bring your skate socks — wear the same socks you’ll use on the ice.

⛸️ When Should You Bake Skates?

• New Skates: Any time you buy new skates that support baking

• Fit Adjustments: After punch-outs or minor boot modifications

• After Heat Exposure: If skates were exposed to heat (like a hot car), a re-bake may help restore fit

🛍️ Need Your Skates Baked?

If you've recently purchased new skates or are experiencing discomfort with your current pair, drop into IceHQ’s Pro Shop. Skate baking is free with any skate purchase and available for a small fee otherwise.

📍 Visit us in-store or contact us to book a fitting session.
📞 (03) 9478-2876

🧼 Final Note: Post-Baking Care

After baking, avoid skating for at least 24 hours to let the fit set fully. Store skates in a cool, dry place and avoid leaving them in cars or garages where they can be exposed to high heat.