Discover the Best Ice Skates in the UK: A Complete Buying Guide for Figure, Hockey and Recreational Skaters

Why the right ice skates make all the difference

Buying ice skates is a bit like buying a pair of shoes for your favourite hobby — but with blades. The right pair will feel like they were built for your feet, boost your confidence on the ice, and help you progress faster. The wrong pair? They can pinch, wobble and turn a joyful session into a frustrating one. Whether you’re gliding across a leisure rink, spinning in a studio, or chasing pucks on a frozen pond, choosing the correct skates matters. Think of them as tools: precision tools for balance, power and control.

Types of ice skates explained

Not all ice skates are created equal. There are three broad families you’ll meet when shopping: figure skates, hockey skates and recreational or leisure skates. Each is designed for a different purpose — figure skates for jumps and spins with a toe pick, hockey skates for speed and agility without a toe pick, and recreational skates for comfort and stability. Choosing the right style is the first step to enjoying your time on the ice.

Figure skates: grace and precision

Figure skates feature a longer blade with a toe pick at the front, which helps with jumps and certain footwork. The boot tends to be higher and stiffer to support the ankle through landings. If you’re training to perform spins, jumps, or dance moves, figure skates are the natural choice.

Hockey skates: speed and agility

Hockey skates are built for lateral movement and quick acceleration. They have a shorter, curved blade and a lower boot that allows for rapid ankle movement. For those who play ice hockey, or who want a more aggressive, sporty feel on the ice, hockey skates offer precision in turns and explosive speed.

Recreational skates: comfort-first

Recreational or leisure skates are ideal for casual outings or beginners. These skates prioritise comfort and stability over high performance. Think of cushioned liners, softer boots and blade designs that make it easier to balance while you learn the basics.

How to choose the right size and fit

Getting the sizing right is crucial. Unlike street shoes where you might enjoy a bit of wiggle room, skates should fit snugly without causing pain. Measure your foot length in inches—stand on a sheet of paper, mark heel to longest toe, then measure that line. Most manufacturers provide a size chart showing the correspondence between foot length in inches and skate size. A common rule is to allow roughly a 1/4 to 1/2 inch of extra space for beginner skaters or recreational boots, and minimal extra space for performance figure or hockey boots. Remember: materials break in differently — leather may mold over time, while synthetic shells stay firmer.

Key features to look for when buying ice skates

Focus on boot stiffness, blade quality, liner comfort and closure systems. Boots come in different stiffnesses: softer for learners, stiffer for advanced skaters seeking support during jumps or fast turns. Blades vary in steel grade and hollow (the groove under the blade); a shallower hollow gives more glide, a deeper hollow offers better bite. Liners can be removable, which is great for drying or replacing. Closure systems — laces, buckles or a combination — impact how precisely you can adjust the fit. Think about your goals: a recreational skater will value comfort; a competitor will prioritise boot support and blade precision.

Blade materials and sharpening

Most quality blades are made from stainless steel, though higher-end blades might use tempered or carbon steel variants for better edge retention. New skates often need a professional sharpening before their first use. How often you sharpen depends on skating frequency and style — a casual skater might sharpen a few times a season, while a player or frequent trainer could sharpen every few weeks. Keep in mind that each sharpening removes a thin layer of metal, so you don’t want to overdo it.

Liner and comfort tech

Modern skates often come with padded, heat-mouldable liners that improve fit and comfort. These liners wick moisture and support the foot during long sessions. Look for removable liners if you plan to replace or dry them often, especially if you skate in a humid rink environment.

Top UK stores to buy ice skates

When shopping in the UK, you’ll find both general sporting retailers and specialist skate shops. Each has strengths: big retailers offer broad choice and competitive pricing, while specialist shops provide expert advice, custom fitting and blade services. Below are well-known UK options and what they’re best for.

Decathlon

Decathlon is a popular high-street and online option that offers good-value entry-level and mid-range skates. If you’re starting out and want a solid pair without breaking the bank, Decathlon’s range is easy to browse, and their stores often let you try on multiple sizes. They’re a great first stop for recreational skates and beginner figure or hockey models.

SkateHut

SkateHut specialises in skates and roller products and is a strong choice for a wide selection of brands and sizes. They carry everything from kids’ starter skates to adult figure and hockey models. SkateHut also tends to include helpful guides and size charts, making online purchases more reliable if you can’t try before you buy.

Sports Direct (Frasers Group)

Sports Direct is a high-volume sport retailer with a presence across the UK. They stock a broad range of entry-level skates and seasonal deals. If you’re looking for budget-friendly options or a quick replacement pair, Sports Direct can be convenient and economical.

Argos

Argos is another convenient option for casual buyers. They usually stock recreational and family-friendly skates in a variety of sizes and styles. If you want a straightforward, no-fuss purchase with in-store collection, Argos is worth checking out.

John Lewis

John Lewis offers a curated range of mid-range to premium skates with a focus on quality and customer service. Their product descriptions tend to be thorough, and they often carry trusted brands. For shoppers who value a reliable online return experience and thoughtful product presentation, John Lewis is a comfortable choice.

Amazon UK

Amazon UK is a vast marketplace where you’ll find a huge selection, from budget sets to specialist blades. The strength here is variety and customer reviews — read those closely to gauge fit and quality. While Amazon is convenient, be cautious with sizing and ensure you buy from reputable sellers or well-known brands.

Specialist skate shops and pro stores

For serious skaters, specialist shops are the secret weapon. These stores offer expert fitting, professional blade sharpening, boot stretching and custom work. Look for local skate shops near major cities — in many cases they’ll carry high-end brands, offer heat-moulding services and give tailored advice that a general retailer can’t match.

Budget picks vs high-end skates

How much should you spend? For a beginner who plans to skate a few times a month, a budget pair in the lower price bracket will be fine. These skates focus on comfort and stability. If you’re training regularly, planning to compete, or need specialised hockey equipment, invest in mid-range to high-end models where boot stiffness, blade quality and fit are superior. Think of your skates like a bicycle: if you ride casually you don’t need top-end components, but if you train daily you’ll notice performance gains with better equipment.

When to upgrade

Upgrade when you outgrow the boot, when your goals change, or when the skates no longer support your technique. If you’re advancing from simple glides to jumps or more aggressive hockey play, a stiffer boot or professional blade can make a measurable difference. Also, replacing worn blades that have high nicks or reduced profile is worth the investment.

How to care for your ice skates

Taking care of skates extends their life and keeps performance consistent. After each session, dry the blades and boots thoroughly. Use blade guards for walking off-ice and soft cloth covers for storage. Avoid leaving skates in a damp bag — moisture invites rust and liner odour. Keep blades protected from bumps and clean them before putting on a soft guard to avoid trapping grit. Regular professional sharpening will keep edges consistent; home sharpening is possible but risks removing too much metal if not done correctly.

Blade rust and storage

If you see surface rust, clean it off gently with a fine polishing cloth. For long-term storage, remove hard guards and store blades in soft covers to prevent moisture build-up. Store skates in a dry place at room temperature — extreme cold or heat can damage liners and adhesives.

Buying used skates: what to watch for

Buying used skates can be a bargain, but inspect carefully. Check boot integrity — no major cracks or crushed areas — and ensure the heel and sole are intact. Blades should have a uniform edge without deep nicks or warping. Ask about the previous owner’s sharpening history; blades that have been over-sharpened may be thin and less durable. If possible, try them on to confirm fit. When in doubt, a specialist shop can assess whether a used pair is worth the price.

Final tips to shop smart in the UK

Compare prices across retailers, read reviews and prioritise fit over looks. If you can, visit a specialist shop for a fitting session; the small extra cost can save months of discomfort. Check whether a retailer offers blade services — sharpening and profiling are valuable extras. Don’t rush: take the time to understand your skating goals and match the skate style to those goals.

Where to go next

Ready to buy? Start by measuring your foot in inches, set a budget, and choose the skate family that matches your use. Browse the stores listed above for availability, and if you’re between sizes, opt for a specialist fitting. Remember: the right skates will help you fall in love with the ice, not fall more often.

Conclusion: Investing a little time in choosing the right ice skates pays off in comfort, confidence and performance. Whether you’re aiming to master your first spin, chase a puck, or just enjoy a weekend glide, there are trustworthy UK retailers and specialist shops ready to help. Use the tips in this guide to measure, compare and care for your skates — and get back on the ice with a smile.