Fond du Lac Figure Skating Club
Basic Skills Program / Learn to Skate
It's time to sign up for
Summer Classes!

Click
HERE for information on our
Summer Basic Skills Classes.
For a link to US
Figure Skating
and a description
of the benefits
of joining a
Basic Skills
Program, click
HERE.
WHAT ABOUT SKATES? NEW or USED or RENTAL?
The boots should provide a snug fit. A skate needs to be an extension of the foot, fit snugly, and be laced up properly. Look
for these three factors in picking out a skate that fits you properly: your size and weight, skating ability and how many
times a week you plan to skate. If the boot does not fit properly or is too "broken in," it will not provide adequate support.
Proper fit is essential for success in skating!
Basically, the fit should be snug, with the lacing pattern constant from toe to ankle. When you push your foot forward to
touch your toe to the end of the skate, if you can put a finger inside the skate between the back of your foot and end of
your skate, it is too big.

It is not always necessary to buy new skates, especially when first learning to skate. Used skates can be a great
bargain...if you know what to look for. If you are unsure of the quality of a pair of used skates, please ask the skating
director or your instructor for some tips.  Double runner skates are NOT recommended!

When purchasing new equipment, go to a reputable pro shop or sporting goods store and take the time to find a pair. Skates,
like most sporting equipment, get more sophisticated as your ability increases. Most manufacturers produce a beginning
boot that comes with a beginning blade.

If you choose not to invest in your own skates, rental skates will do just fine, too. When renting skates, ask for a pair of
firm boots with adequate support and sharp blades.



WHAT DO I WEAR?
Whether skating indoors or outdoors, dress for warmth by layering your clothing. Winter jackets, hats and mittens are
recommended. As you get warm, you may wish to discard a layer. Comfort and ability to move freely are also very important.
We suggest close-fitting but not tight pants. Sweatpants or warm-up pants are ideal. Snow pants may limit movement.  
Your feet will feel best if you wear one pair of lightweight socks or tights. Bulky or thick socks may limit the support
provided by your skates and create "bumps" inside your boots, making them uncomfortable. Make sure when fitting your
skates that your toes can wiggle but your heel does not slide up and down or around once your foot is properly laced in the
skate.
Protective head gear is recommended for children under the age of 6 and all beginner skaters. Contact a local sporting
goods store for proper fit and information regarding safety helmets.