How to Tell the Skate Width for a Goalie

Measure both feet when choosing skates for an ice hockey goalie.

Sizing is crucial when purchasing a new pair of ice hockey skates for a goalie. Buying the wrong size skates could be a very expensive mistake. There are small differences from one manufacturer to another. The goalie should try on several different brands and sizes to find the skate that is most comfortable. The goalie will have more control if the ice hockey skates fit tightly.

Instructions

1. Start by trying on a skate that is 1 to 1 1/2 sizes smaller than your shoe size for men, and 2 to 2 1/2 sizes smaller for women. The width of skates differs from one manufacturer to another, so try on several brands before making a final choice.

2. Lace up the skates so that they are snug, but not tight. When the skate is laced, the eyelets should be 1 1/2 to 2 inches apart. If they are further apart, you need to choose a brand of skate that is wider. If they are closer together, try narrower skates.

3. Walk around with the skates on. Make sure that your foot fits snugly. There should be no movement of the foot inside the skate. Toes should be flat. Remove the skate to see if there are any red areas on your foot. This would indicate too much pressure because the skate is too small. If there are red marks on the sides of the foot, opt for a wider skate.

Tips & Warnings

• Standard skates come in "D" width. Narrower skates will be a "C" width. Wider skates come in E, EE and EEE with EEE being the biggest. EE and EEE skates must be custom ordered from the manufacturer.

• You can buy skates that are slightly too big so that children can grow into them over the course of a season. Lace the skate and bend the knee. The child should be able to fit a finger behind the heel when the toes are touching the toe caps. Toes should not be curled or pressing against the toe cap.

References

• Goalie Heaven: Sizing Chart