Figure Skate Comparison

We have compiled information from the manufacturers to present all in one place. It's worth remembering a few key points:

• It's not clear whether manufacturers use the same method to measure stiffness of the boots
• There is no hard and fast rule for determining whether a particular stiffness is best for your skating progression - it in part depends also on height and weight
• The manufacturers level rating is a guide only

It's always a good idea to get your hands on a real pair of skates, and try them on, before buying - and even better have a proper fitting with experienced skate retailer.

What's the difference between White, Women's, Black and Men's?

Not a lot...

Jackson's do manufacture boots as "intended for Women", which are white, and "intended for Men", which are black. The reason for the distinction in Jackson's is simply due to the sizing they use. A boot intended for Women (white) are sized to women's US sizing, which is different from men's US sizing. Therefore, buying the same numerical size in white (women's) or black (men's) will result in different sized boots!

Other manufacturers also make boots in white or black (or for higher level skates other materials/colours may be an option), and there may be some difference in how they are made and potentially also the stiffness, and quite often the white and black boots may cover different foot sizes (blacks will go to a higher size than white), but otherwise buy whichever colour you want.

Don't like the colour? Consider over-boot covers and pick whatever colour you want! This has an added advantage of giving some protection to the boot from blade strikes.