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Beginner classes for our youngest of skaters, ages 3-6. This class moves at a slower pace and builds skills gradually. Skaters meet “off-ice” for the first 5 minutes to gain skills with stability before taking to the ice. Helmets and mittens are required.
Skate Recommendation: We have seen the most success with skates that have a figure blade. For this we highly recommend all beginners start in a “Riedell Soar” or similar “soft boot” skate. They have strong, tall sides that offer better support, the blade is flat unlike a hockey blade providing more stability, and they are padded and warm to help provide comfort while on the ice. These skates hold their structure really well making them a safe choice if buying used. Strauss Bike & Skate in Maplewood carries this skate brand new, or Riedell is a MN company and can be purchased from directly.
**Double blades are not allowed
** Adjustable “grow with me” skates are not recommended because the blade stays at the largest setting and might be the wrong length for the skater’s center of balance.
Skates should not crease or bend at the ankle. They should be tied tight all the way to the top so when the skater is standing in them their ankles do not tip inward. Practice lacing them up and “marching” on a rug or carpet before the first day of class. Always arrive about 15 minutes early to get skates, helmet, and gloves on before class time.
Wear warm, flexible layers like leggings, thermals, windbreaker type pants, sweatpants, hoodies, or vests. Tight snow pants or winter jackets can restrict the skater from being able to stand up after a fall. ** Tip: try standing up from a hands and knees position at home wearing the outerwear to ensure they can bend and stand up successfully.
Beginner classes for our youngest of skaters, ages 3-6. This class moves at a slower pace and builds skills gradually. Skaters meet “off-ice” for the first 5 minutes to gain skills with stability before taking to the ice. Helmets and mittens are required.
Skate Recommendation: We have seen the most success with skates that have a figure blade. For this we highly recommend all beginners start in a “Riedell Soar” or similar “soft boot” skate. They have strong, tall sides that offer better support, the blade is flat unlike a hockey blade providing more stability, and they are padded and warm to help provide comfort while on the ice. These skates hold their structure really well making them a safe choice if buying used. Strauss Bike & Skate in Maplewood carries this skate brand new, or Riedell is a MN company and can be purchased from directly.
**Double blades are not allowed
** Adjustable “grow with me” skates are not recommended because the blade stays at the largest setting and might be the wrong length for the skater’s center of balance.
Skates should not crease or bend at the ankle. They should be tied tight all the way to the top so when the skater is standing in them their ankles do not tip inward. Practice lacing them up and “marching” on a rug or carpet before the first day of class. Always arrive about 15 minutes early to get skates, helmet, and gloves on before class time.
Wear warm, flexible layers like leggings, thermals, windbreaker type pants, sweatpants, hoodies, or vests. Tight snow pants or winter jackets can restrict the skater from being able to stand up after a fall. ** Tip: try standing up from a hands and knees position at home wearing the outerwear to ensure they can bend and stand up successfully.