A question frequently posted on our Facebook page is, “What boot should I get if I’m skating at this level?” There are many factors that you have to consider when finding the right boot including: your current skating test level, your skating goals, boot maintenance, and individual fit. One of the best resources for boot recommendations (besides your Authorized Riedell Dealer) is our Boot and Blade Recommendation Chart, in our 2012 Catalog.  In this first post of a two-part series, we’ll review our boot recommendations for beginning to intermediate skaters.

The boots that best meet the needs of beginning to intermediate skaters are from our Recreational Series and Instructional Series. These seven boots are designed and built to help skaters hone skills on the ice and advance their abilities:

• For the very beginning skaters in ISI, USFSA and Canadian Test Guidelines, any of our Recreational Series boots—the 121 RS, 115 RS and 110 RS—are ideal. Why? They provide the stability beginning skaters need to feel comfortable and secure on the ice, plus simplified boot maintenance allows skaters to focus on improving skills.
• For skaters who are already comfortable on the ice and have developed basic skills—think backward stroking, hockey stops and simple jumps and spins— the 229 TS and 133 TS are great boots.
• Our 910 LS and 255 TS are ideal transitional boots for intermediate skaters moving into more competitive moves. The design of these boots allows for more advanced jump and spin combinations, and will provide the support and reinforcement needed to master these skills. They are both recommended through ISI and USFSA Basic Skills Freestyle 3 & 4.

Now that you have your boot, what about blades? Many of our Recreational and Instructional Series boots are available with either the Quest Onyx or Eclipse Crescent blade. Our Quest Topaz and Eclipse Volant are also ideal blade choices for beginner to intermediate skaters.

Have questions on specific boots or blades? Email us at customerservice@riedellskates.com or check with your local Authorized Riedell Dealer.

Check back next week as we recommend boots for Senior and Competitive levels!