How Warm Should I Dress for Indoor Ice Skating?

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Dress in Layers

Dress in layers when visiting an indoor ice skating rink. Whether the temperature outside is hot or cold, you will always experience a chill in an ice rink. Dressing in layers will allow you to stay warm when you first step onto the ice. However, it will also allow you to shed an article of clothing once your body temperature has risen from taking a few spins around the rink.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

You do not want to overdress. The cardinal wardrobe rule for any physical activity calls for clothing that does not hinder your ability to maneuver. Avoid clothing that does not give. A stiff and bulky winter coat can throw you off balance and a long scarf can get caught in your skates. While ice skating, you will want to glide freely and fall safely, so stretchy material will allow you to maneuver freely. Experts at Scholastic.com suggest "poly-blended fabrics," because, "when 100 percent cotton gets wet, it stays wet (and cold)." Although indoor ice skating will protect you from inclement weather, you may still fall on the ice, which can cause your clothing to become damp and uncomfortable.

Bottom Line

Wardrobe necessities for anyone visiting an indoor ice skating rink include long socks, that keep the rims of ice skates from chafing against your calves, long pants, gloves, long sleeved shirts, a sweater or sweat shirt, and a hat that covers the ears. Young children should also wear helmets for safety.

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