How Does
How Are Figure Skates Constructed?
The Parts of a Figure Skate
-
According to "Madehow: How Things Are Made, Volume 2," figure skates are made differently from speed or hockey skates. To start, a figure skate is fitted with a special blade that is optimal for the complicated spins and moves of the sport. This .0125-inch-thick blade has a hollow bottom and toe picks on the front to help with braking. Last, the leather boot upper is taller than other skates, with a measurement of 7 to 8 inches that supports and covers the ankle.
The Beginning of a Figure Skate
-
"Neither the Olympic Committee nor the U.S. Ice Skating Federation has requirements regarding the manufacture of ice skates. However, the manufacturers pay close attention to the needs and suggestions of professional skaters and coaches," according to the Madehow article. All figure skate production follow a similar chain of manufacture, with the part composition varying by maker.
When building a figure skate, the maker cuts the pieces from kangaroo hide using an industrial cutter. The boot is crafted of two halves that are sewn together and then tempered with moisture and heat. After this, padding and stiffeners are added to the still softly formed boot. The skate then moves on to the next phase of shaping and finishing.
Making a Figure Skate Look Like a Figure Skate
-
The soft boot is fitted onto a last, and hand pressure pulls out any lines or wrinkles. The boot is treated with more moisture and heat to shape it. Next, the arch, sole and heel are attached with adhesive after the leather bottom of the boot is sanded down. The sole is reinforced with a steel support shank for strength. The blade is attached with a powerful hand drill and screws to three different points on the sole. However, some screws are left off for custom hand-finishing and balancing by the skater herself.
eHow Article: How Are Figure Skates Constructed?
