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A guide to skate sharpening

A guide to skate sharpening

What is a radius and how do I know which one I need?

Deeper hollows offer greater bite and edge control, making them ideal for smaller or lighter skaters who lack the physical size to press their edges firmly into the ice. These skaters often benefit from quick acceleration, the ability to make sharp turns in confined spaces, and the capacity to secure their edges when jostling near the net or battling in the corners. However, the downside of a deeper hollow is that it creates more friction and resistance, reducing glide time and potentially leading to quicker fatigue.

Conversely, a shallower hollow is favoured by many professional players, larger athletes, and those with excellent edge control. This reduced hollow demands greater knee flexion to dig the edges into the ice, which may slow initial acceleration but allows for longer strides and enhanced speed while gliding. Additionally, it can minimise fatigue over time, as fewer strides are necessary.

The most common radius of hollow cuts requested in the Pro Shop are ½” and 5/8”, as they strike the optimal balance between edge depth and glide efficiency.

  • Smaller hollow- More Bite (e.g. 3/8)
  • Deeper cut into the ice, edges feel “really sharp”
  • Better for lighter players who dig in less to start with
  • Feels like extra effort is required to skate as your skate edges dig into the ice more
  • Lower top speeds
  • More responsive turns and stop
  • Quicker, more explosive acceleration

Larger hollow- More glide (e.g. 7/8”)

  • Shallower cut into the ice, edges feel “not that sharp”
  • Better suited for heavier players that naturally sink into the ice to start with
  • Feels like skating is more efficient or “easier” due to less of the skate edge sinking into ice
  • Faster top speed
  • Turns and stops will be less quick or sharp
  • Acceleration is more limited

Skate Sharpening Radius Diagram

How do I know if I need to sharpen my skates?

Skaters typically develop specific preferences for how frequently they like their skates sharpened, influenced by factors such as their body size, skating technique, time spent on the ice, and blade quality. A widely accepted guideline suggests sharpening skates every 12 hours of ice time. However, some players are meticulous, ensuring their skates are sharpened before each game, whilst others delay until their blades can barely maintain an edge. During games, blades can suffer nicks and burrs from contact with the boards, goal posts, or other players. Although tools exist to quickly address minor imperfections, they cannot replace a proper sharpening.

Establishing a consistent sharpening routine will help you avoid that dreaded sliding sensation and keep your blades in optimal condition. Regular maintenance is crucial, as poorly maintained blades are more difficult to sharpen and perform subpar. Properly sharpened and maintained skate blades can last more than twice as long as those that are neglected.

What factors will make my skates lose an edge faster?

  • The temperature of the ice will affect your skate blade wear. Colder ice is harder and will wear your edges faster.
  • Walking around the rink? As well maintained as the outside of a rink can be, the surface does tend to attract debris. From small stones to dirt, sticks, bobby pins, and more, your skates will take more of a beating if you regularly walk around the rink without guards on and will need more frequent touch-ups.
  • The quality of your steel. CCM offers a range of different types of steel for their blades.  Higher level skates will usually include higher quality blades. Better blades hold an edge longer and require fewer sharpenings.

Are my blades dull?

Make it a habit to inspect your blades every time you dry them off. When you notice they have become dull or nicked, it's time to get them sharpened. A common way to check sharpness is by gently dragging a fingernail over the edge. If a small sliver comes off, the blades are sharp; if it just glides over, they need sharpening. Blades often wear unevenly, with the inside edges or fronts potentially dulling faster than the outside edges or tails.

Ultimately, the true test lies in the skating experience itself. Over time, you'll pick up on the subtle signs that indicate a blade is losing its sharpness. Keep in mind that sharpening your blades shortens their lifespan and requires you to readjust to their new feel. Although freshly sharpened blades usually perform better, you might be momentarily thrown off by the change, having grown accustomed to the way duller blades handle.

Is it worth getting a second set of blades?

While we stock a wide range of replacement steel for CCM skates in store, if you're a hockey player who travels for tournaments, or if missing a game because of an equipment issue is just too much to bear, you need another set of blades. Want to try out a different profile but afraid that if you really hate it, you’re stuck? With a second set of sharpened blades in your bag you can just pop a fresh set into the carrier and you're back on the ice again.

How do I look after my blades?

  • Always dry and cover your blades after each use, store them in a pair of soft guards to protect them during travelling. 
  • Wear skate guards at all times, when you are not on the ice
  • Keep skate guards dry and clear of any small debris like sand and pebbles.
  • Loosen the laces, open the boot and tongue as much as possible after reach use to allow the skate boot to dry properly out of your bag. Mold and moisture can affect the materials of the skate boot over time.
  • Wipe down the bottom of your skate boot where the rivets are located to avoid early rusting and damage.