Equipment

There are basically 2 types of speed skates, one for Short Track and one for Long Track. The Short Track skate is of a heavier construction for stability and durability. The blade is thicker than that of a Long Track skate's because of the tighter corners and higher stress loads that occur on them. Long Track skates have a lower cut boot and a softer leather boot to facilitate ankle movements while skating outdoors. Speed skates are a specialty item and as such are quite expensive. Beginner skates start around $250.00 for a child to $2000.00 for a custom molded skate for the advanced skater. Matsqui is primarily a short track club, however we do have skaters who compete in Long Track meets. Speed skate rental is covered with the registration. Advanced skaters can purchase their own customized skates. The following equipment is what we require you to have to speed skate: Shin Guards Shin guards, such as those used in soccer are used to protect the lower leg from skate blades. The plastic type are popular and are usually just slipped under the skin-suit and over the Shin, The snugness of the suit holds them solidly in place. These are quite inexpensive, usually ranging from $10.00 to $15.00. Knee Pads Knee pads volleyball type are used to protect the skater's knees in a fall. There are many different models on the market and most skaters choose the model that they feel offers the best comfort and protection. The proper size must be purchased for the skater so that it will stay in position over the knee. Gloves Gloves are required to prevent cuts to the fingers and abrasions to the hands when falling. The glove must be made of leather or cut resistant nylon. Short Track skaters because of the lean in the corner and the forces acting on them often place a hand on the ice inside the corner to help them hold the corner. Bare skin on the ice would be friction burnt and fingers would be susceptible to cuts if hit by a blade. Neck Protector A neck protector is worn to keep the neck area protected from a skate blade in a fall. Hockey neck guards are generally used. They must be the bib type, to cover the neck and upper chest, and made out of kevlar for cut resistance. Tucked under the skin-suit they stay in place well and are comfortable to wear as long as the appropriate size for the skater is worn. These cost around $17.00 to $25.00 depending on Brand name, a lot of skaters use the ITECH models. Helmets Safety-type headgear which has a seal of certification meeting the actual ASTM F 1849 standards and which must be securely fastened under the chin. This certification is required for helmets at all SSC Sanctioned competitions. Both LAS made after 2000 and the Louis Garneau helmets for Speed Skating have have these standards. These helmets are light and protect while providing good visibility for the skater when in skating position. For now, beginner skaters may use a bicycle helmet at club practices. We would suggest that if you need to purchase a helmet that to first speak to someone in the club. Whenever on the ice skaters must wear a helmet to protect themselves when they fall. Skin-suit optional for skaters The skin-suit is used while racing. It is usually made of spandex and snug fitting to help the skater be as aerodynamic as possible, with nothing loose to pick up the wind. Each club has it's own colors. When Practicing outdoors in colder weather skaters will wear lined warm-up suits as well as toques, neck warmers, mitts, and skate covers to keep themselves warm. At competitions where the weather is very cold the skater is not allowed to race unless they are dressed sufficiently to keep warm. The last thing that anyone wants is a case of frostbite.