Equipment Checklist

• Helmets are mandatory for all skaters in the Learn to Skate program, face cages/shields are not required but may be worn at your discretion.
• Helmets should meet safety standards set by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and bear the CSA approval sticker.
• Hockey helmets are recommended, but ski helmets are permitted. Cycling helmets are not permitted as they aren't as protective on the ice. 
• The helmet should fit snugly and cover the forehead.

Clothing

Skates

• Skaters in the Learn to Skate program may choose Hockey or Figure Skates.
• We do not recommend any Softec or K2 brand skates or any skates with a plastic shell. These skates do not provide sufficient support, regardless of the skater's skill level.
• Ensure you sharpen skates prior to the first session, and after approximately every 10 hours of skating.
• When sharpening figure skates, ensure the toe pick is not removed by the sharpener as the pick is essential to the performance of the skates. We recommend getting figure skates sharpened at a store specifically trained to sharpen figure skates and not at arena pro-shops.

• Helmets are mandatory for all skaters in the Intro to Figure Skating program. 
• Skaters in the 4:30 Figure Skating program may wear helmets at their discretion, but they are not required. Helmets with face cages/shields are not permitted in this program. 
• Helmets should meet safety standards set by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and bear the CSA approval sticker.
• Hockey helmets are recommended, but ski helmets are permitted. Cycling helmets are not permitted as they aren't as protective on the ice. 
• The helmet should fit snugly and cover the forehead.

• Clothing should be warm but also allow for movement. We recommend you dress your child in layers. 
• Blue jeans are not be permitted on the ice as they provide insufficient movement and stretch. 
• Skating tights and skirts/dresses should not be worn within the Intro to Figure Skating program.
• Mitts or gloves are required.
• Long hair must be tied back (even under a helmet)

Skates

• Skaters in the Intro to Figure Skating and Figure Skating programs must wear figure skates.
• We recommend Jackson brand skates as they have a skate for skaters of all levels. 
  • Available at most sporting goods stores as well as Professional Skate and the Skate Lab.
  • Recommended models include Artiste, Classic, Elle, Evo, Excel, Fusion, Freestyle, Mystique.
  • Look for a skate with a brown bottom. These skates will provide the appropriate level of support.
• If buying used skates, please check to make sure the toe picks are intact!
• Ensure you sharpen skates prior to the first session, and after approximately every 10 hours of skating.
• When sharpening figure skates, ensure the toe pick is not removed by the sharpener as the pick is essential to the performance of figure skating skills. We recommend getting figure skates sharpened at a store specifically trained to sharpen figure skates (like Professional Skate or The Skate Lab) and not at arena pro-shops.