Are you looking for the best ice skates for toddlers?
Want you 2, 3 or 4 year old kid to have fun right from the start?
Great! This article contains all the information you need on the best toddler ice skates:
- reviews of toddler ice skates, including double blade, adjustable, and traditional skates,
- criteria on how to choose the best ice skates for babies and young kids,
- and my recommendations to help you get the most out of the chosen ice skates.
First, I will clarify that -
- This post is written specifically to suggest appropriate ice skates for toddlers (children under the age of 4)
- This post covers both hockey skates and figure skates
This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase using my link, I get a commission at no extra cost to you (learn more).
Best Toddler Ice Skates - Quick overview
If you want to buy ice skates for your toddler but do not have the time to read the detailed post, here is a quick summary of my top recommendations -
Best Hockey Ice Skates for toddler - especially for tiny feet -
Bauer Lil Champ Ice Hockey Skates
Best toddler ice skates for regular practice -
Jackson Ultima Finesse Skate Toddler Figure Skates
Adjustable skates:
Double blade ice skates - baby ice skates
Best Ice skates for infants with double blades -
Lake Placid Double Runner - Pink
or Lake Placid Starglide black
If you are specifically looking for hockey skates for your kid, check my post on the best hockey skates for kids here.
What are the best ice skates for little kids - FAQ
Although kid ice skates are structured like adult ice skates in terms of their fit, comfort, and functionality, some additional features exist, and you may be wondering if they are a good idea. Below are the answers to your frequently asked questions.
Are double blade ice skates for toddlers a good idea?
Using double-blade ice skates for toddlers is an excellent way of introducing your toddler to the art of skating. Ice skates with two blades work in the same manner as a bike with safety wheels does.
The broader surface area of double blade toddler ice skates
- Makes balancing much easier
- Ensures the development of proper skating technique
- Builds confidence
- Makes skating fun for toddlers
However, they do delay the learning of proper technique.
Hockey skates vs. Figure skates
The two primary types of ice skates are hockey skates and figure skates. It doesn't matter which type of ice skates you choose for a beginner toddler learning to skate. However, here are some guidelines -
Balance -
- Easier in a figure skate because of the thicker blade and toe pick
- Could take more time in hockey skates because of a shorter blade and rocker
Protection and comfort -
- Ice hockey boot is stiffer and can protect better against falls and collisions but is heavier
- Figure skating boot is more lightweight and feels more comfortable thanks to its wooden heel
Type of movement -
- Figure skates are designed for spins and jumps
- Hockey skates are designed for swift movement, sharp turns, and quick stops.
Should you choose adjustable ice skates?
With the continually growing feet of toddlers, parents often worry about having to buy new kid ice skates regularly.
Adjustable ice skates are a solution to this issue as they provide the following benefits -
- They can be adjusted to accommodate the growing feet of a toddler,
- They last longer,
- They prove to be more economical.
However, make sure that the adjustable ice skates you intend buying do not suffer from:
- Improper blade to foot ratio,
- Lack of enough ankle support.
New skates vs. Used skates
Buying used skates is often a tempting proposition for parents who are hesitant about spending money on brand new ice skates.
Used skates often come with the following problems -
- Rusty blades,
- Creases on the ankle area due to wear and tear,
- Worn-out padding,
- Flexing of the boot as per the foot of the previous user,
- Loose, worn-out laces.
Buying used skates is only suitable for recreational skaters who are unlikely to use ice skates more than a couple of times in a year.
However, you should avoid buying used skates for toddlers learning a new skill or intending on being enrolled for a skating class as used skates could expose your toddler to the risk of injuries or development of improper technique.
How to choose the best ice skates for toddlers?
Finding the right ice skates for 2-year-old toddlers involves as much work as finding the right ice skates for an adult serious about ice skating.
Here are ways in which you can ensure that you make the right choice -
Check if they provide appropriate ankle support -
This is the most important thing to check. Very cheap ice skates are often way too flexible and won't provide sufficient support. Your kid will feel unstable and risk injury.
Children's ice skates must provide enough ankle support to ensure an injury-free skating experience. Ankle support is absolutely critical.
Ice skates with adequate ankle support ensure the development of proper skating techniques and promote better balance.
Ice skates that provide good ankle support -
- They Are not soft or flexible around the ankle,
- The boots will not have any crumples around the ankle,
- The ankles and the shin will operate as a single unit.
Hockey skates, by default, tend to provide better ankle support than figure skates.
Check if they are comfortable -
Toddlers should not be made to wear footwear that is not comfortable. Therefore, you must opt for ice skates for kids that
- Fit well,
- Are appropriately padded,
- Allow the foot to breathe,
- Are lightweight but strong.
You will have to trust your toddler when it comes to comfort, as the overall comfort provided by ice skates depends on several other factors such as fit.
Check if they fit properly -
No matter what type of ice skates you choose to buy, you must ensure that they fit your toddler perfectly. Do not simply opt for the smallest ice skates.
Toddlers will refuse to wear ill-fitting skates.
To make sure that you have bought perfectly fitting ice skates, check if the ice skates
- Leave room for toe movement and growth but
- Do not leave any unnecessary negative space around the foot and behind the heel.
Check if the size is right -
The only way of ensuring that the ice skates feel comfortable on the toddler's feet and that they fit right is by buying the right size of ice skates. Do not simply order the same size as your toddler's regular shoes.
Remember that -
- Ice skates are often sized smaller than regular shoes
- Sizing varies with every brand
To zero down on the right size for your toddler -
- Make your toddler wear ice skating socks
- Place his foot on a piece of plain paper
- Draw a neat outline around your toddler's foot
- Measure across the length and breadth
- Check brand-specific sizing charts and order according to your toddler's foot measurements.
Best Baby Ice Skates - Double blades
After reading the criteria, if you have decided for double blade ice skates, below are your best options.
Lake Placid Double Runner
Type - Figure Skates
Ideal for - Absolute beginner for use as first ice skates
Buy on Amazon - Pink
or Lake Placid Starglide black - Buy on Amazon
Pros
- Trendy look
- Double blade
- Faux Fur lining for comfort
- Simple traditional closure laces
- Affordable
Cons
- Not suitable for long-term use
Features and Review
These figure skates come in black, white and pink and are an ideal option for an absolute beginner toddler. Double blade ice skates ensure better balance and help in quickly building a toddler's confidence.
These ice skates' overall feel is also comfortable thanks to the vinyl upper and the faux fur trim and lining. The look of these skates is attractive for young toddlers.
The blades that come with these ice skates do not require sharpening.
The only downside of these skates is that the skates can't be used on a long-term basis as the double blades can restrict a slightly more advanced movement. The regular lacing pattern and the soft boot could also result in inadequate ankle support.
That said, these are the great first ice skates for any toddler who needs to be introduced to ice skating.
Best Toddler Ice Skates - Reviews of recreational options
In this section, I am reviewing the top recommendations of the best ice skates for toddlers as listed at the beginning of the article.
Bauer Lil Champ Ice Hockey Skates
Type - Hockey
Ideal for - Absolute beginners
Pros
- Affordable
- One-piece structure with a non-detachable blade
- Comfortable for long practice hours
- The buckle makes these easy to put on and take off
- Come in a wide range of sizes
Cons
- The buckle releases itself on its own
Features and Review
These Bauer ice skates are the best beginners ice skates available on the market. The ice skates offer the right amount of comfort and support for a toddler learning to step on ice.
These skates come from the smallest of sizes. Even a toddler as young as 18-months old can step on the rink wearing these. The ankle support offered by these sturdy-looking hockey skates is impressive.
Wearing and taking off these skates is extremely easy as the ice skates employ a buckle closure.
The padded tongue and the bootie-liner also make these comfortable on the tender feet of toddlers.
However, as with most other beginner-level ice skates, these skates are not suitable for slightly more experienced skaters due to their inherent structural limitations.
Lake Placid Summit Adjustable Ice Skate
Type - Hockey
Ideal for - Those looking for adjustable kids' ice skates (hockey)
Pros
- Adjustable up to 4 sizes
- Super comfortable
- Quick buckle closure
- Moderately priced
Cons
- Improper blade length to foot ratio
Features and Review
These ice skates feel comfortable on the foot thanks to their lightweight structure, deluxe padding, and warm-woven lining. The comfort that these skates deliver encourages beginners to spend more time wearing them. The buckle used by these skates also fixes them securely around the foot.
Plus, the look of these skates is also very attractive.
However, the primary reason why these skates are extremely popular on the market is their adjustability feature. The skates can be adjusted to expand to 4 full sizes and last much longer than many other ice skates, making them very economical.
Nevertheless, the same adjustability feature can result in an improper blade-length to boot ratio, which could impact performance.
Jackson Ultima Softec Vibe
Type - Figure
Ideal for - Those looking for adjustable kids' ice skates (figure)
Pros
- Adjustable
- Affordable
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Provide excellent ankle support
Cons
- Delicate lever
Features and Review
The Vibe is an excellent product in the Jackson Ultima series. These ice skates are the perfect beginner ice skates for toddlers.
These ice skates allow size adjustments by a simple shift of the lever. To support the long-term usage of these toddler ice skates, the skates employ a durable nylon upper and a quality nickel blade.
These ice skates also are in the comfort department thanks to their soft boot supported by an external skeletal structure.
Moreover, what truly makes them one of the best ice skates for beginners is the excellent ankle support that they deliver despite their adjustability feature.
The only feature that could have been worked upon is the quality of the lever, which runs the risk of breaking if not handled carefully.
Best Ice Skates for little kids - Reviews
Riedell Skates - 615 Soar Jr
Type - Figure
Ideal for - Beginners for use as first skates (without double blades)
Pros
- Outstanding ankle support
- Comfortable
- Quick Velcro closure (in toddler sizes)
- Durable
- Moderately priced
- Colorful design
- Riedell Brand (one of the top figure skating brands)
Cons
- None
Features and Review
Firstly, I must admit that these are one of the finest ice skates for children on the market in terms of their make, style, functionality, and ease-of-use. The ankle support that these figure skates provide is perfect for promoting proper movements.
In addition to their ankle support, the padding on the boot and the foam-backed lining keep the feet feeling warm, dry, and comfortable. The PVC boot requires no maintenance. The durable tongue design keeps the feet securely locked-in.
What's incredible is that the youth sizes (toddler sizing) come with Velcro straps instead of traditional laces. Thus, wearing and taking off these skates becomes hassle-free.
The blade provided is a versatile blade that is ideal for a toddler trying to get better at figure skating.
Jackson Ultima Softec Vista Girl Figure Skates
Type - Figure
Ideal for - Young girl looking for comfortable skates for the first levels of ice skating.
Pros
- Excellent comfort
- Good ankle support
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Fun designed to please kids
- Jackson Brand (one of the top figure skating brands)
Cons
- None
Features and Review
An experience brand creating fun and good quality skates for absolute beginners, including toddlers.
A lightweight design with Nylex lining and a velvet feel.
It has the advantage of the experienced Jackson Mark I blade.
A good overall skates that will allow toddlers to go through the first levels of figure skating.
Jackson Ultima Finesse Skate Toddler Figure Skates
Type - Figure
Ideal for - Young child who is a bit more serious about ice skating
Pros
- Great ankle support
- Great quality blade
- Moderately priced
- Stylish
- Durable
Cons
- Weak lacing hooks
Features and Review
The Jackson Finesse are great ice skates for toddlers who are a bit more serious about ice skating.
Jackson is one of the best ice skating brands, and this model employs the Ultima Mark I stainless steel blade that can easily meet a toddler's growing skill needs.
The boot uses a reinforced vinyl upper that can last long. The tongue has appropriate padding, and the rolled padded collar keeps the feet dry. Overall, the skates feel comfortable and warm when worn.
The chrome insert makes these skates look stylish, and the use of PVC means that they do not need any additional maintenance.
The only area in which these ice skates suffer is in the lacing hooks department. The lace hooks are quite weak and must be handled with extra care.
Additional ice skating equipment for toddlers
Toddlers learning to ice skate fall and slip quite frequently, and therefore buying appropriate protective gear is of utmost importance.
Therefore, here is a list of additional ice skating gear for a toddler that you should buy along with a pair of excellent toddler ice skates.
- Helmet - In order to prevent severe head injuries and to avoid concussions, toddlers must use a helmet at all times.
- Pads - Pads that have a foam or a gel cushioning ensure that your toddler's knees, elbows, and wrists remain injury-free by absorbing the shock of falls and slips.
- Gloves - Many do not consider gloves to be imperative for ice skating. However, thin gloves that dry fast help in keeping the hands warm and also safeguard against injuries.
- Socks - Socks are essential for keeping the feet warm while skating. But to get the best out of them, socks must be thin, seamless, and high enough to extend above the boot.
- Clothes- Primarily, it is best to opt for multiple layers while ice skating that can be added or taken off as per your toddler's requirement. And they should be comfortable and allow for movement.
Choosing warm tops, jackets, full sleeve shirts are your best bet.
In terms of bottom wear, it is best to opt for form-fitting variants such as leggings for girls or long pants for boys. Jeans should be strictly avoided. - Dresses or costumes - Girls look adorable when they wear fancy tutu costumes on the rink. Not only are these costumes pretty, but they are also functional as the material is comfortable, warm, and can dry fast.
Below are items to consider -
And if you have decided to start ice skating with your toddler, check out my top 10 tips.
Tips to take care of infant ice skates
Ice skates need to be looked after in order to protect them from wear and tear, breaking and to help your toddler get the best out of them. Here are some handy tips for you -
- Blades must be sharpened regularly - Most ice skates require the blades to be sharpened before the first use and then regularly after that to ensure smooth and safe movement.
- Blade guards must be used when stepping off the ice rink - Blade guards must be used as soon as the toddler steps outside the rink to prevent damage to the blade - However none exist for double blades
- Blades must be dried - Ice skates blades must be dried immediately after each practice using an absorbent towel to prevent rusting and damage.
- Blades must be covered - When carrying the skates back after skating, ice skates soakers must be used to wrap the blade. Soakers are blade covers that soak residual moisture from the blades.
- Boots must be dried - Ice skating boots must be thoroughly air-dried after every use.
Check out some my blade towel designs - they are very absorbent!
Other articles for ice skating with toddlers and kids:
- 10 Tips to start ice skating with a toddler - read article
- Best ice skate for girls - read article
- How to tie your skates or your kid's skates - read article
- Best ice skating gloves - read article
- Best age to start ice skating - read article
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