What size to choose?
Short answer:
When deciding what size to choose for your skates, the general rule is to take your regular shoe size for a snug fit. If you prefer a looser fit, you might consider going one size up.
What size to choose, how should it feel?
Skates should feel extremely tight, almost like a second skin. Most people are not accustomed to this sensation and mistakenly believe they need a bigger size. However, when skating, your foot controls the wheels, and the skate is the tool that transfers your movement. The tighter and stiffer the skate, the better the performance.
A loose skate is not just uncomfortable; it can lead to foot cramps and cause your feet to tire more quickly. Imagine trying to run in slippers—you’ll quickly understand why a tight fit is crucial for both comfort and performance.
Visit our shop and you will know what size to choose
When choosing what size to choose, it’s important to remember that every skate model interprets sizing differently in terms of length, width, and height. The best way to find the perfect size is to visit our shop in Amsterdam and try on different models. Our knowledgeable staff will guide you through the fitting process, ensuring you leave with the right size.
Measuring your foot for hard boots
Hard boots offer the best value for money, especially if you’re serious about skating. Here’s how to figure out what size to choose:
-
Measure your foot: Use a ruler or tape measure to find the length of your foot in millimeters. Measure both feet and use the length of the longer foot.
-
Check our size list: We’ve measured the inside length of all the hard boots on the market (without the liner) and compiled the results in a list for you. This list shows the true inside length of the hard boots we sell.
-
Add some space: Once you know the length of your foot, add about 10mm-20mm to account for the liner. This will give you your ideal skate size.
-
Consider width and height: Skates can also vary in width and height. If you have wide or high feet, consider choosing a size larger than typically recommended. This will give you a bit more room without sacrificing performance.
If you order a skate and it doesn’t fit, you can always return or exchange it for a different size. But before you do, read the next section.
Learn more about how skate liners impact fit and performance in our skate liners try-on guide.
Understanding dual sizing?
Some skates are available in single sizes (e.g., 40, 41, 42), while others come in dual sizing (e.g., 41-42, 43-44), where two sizes are combined into one option. Soft boots typically come in single sizes, whereas hard boots usually feature dual sizing.
Dual sizing can be a bit tricky, but it generally means that the skate can comfortably fit two sizes due to its design and liner flexibility. If you’re in between sizes or unsure, dual sizing can offer more versatility.
For an in-depth explanation, check out our dual sizing guide.
Already have skates?
If you’ve already purchased skates and are unsure if they fit properly, there’s no need to guess. Find out how to test the size effectively by following our detailed guide:
Test your skate size blog post
Making sure you have the right gear is half the battle. For more details and no-nonsense advice, jump into our Buyer's Guide. It’s got everything you need to make an informed choice and get the most out of your skating.