I learned to skate at 34, and the first thing I wish someone had told me is that the rental skates at public rinks are not the same animal as a real pair of ice skates. After two seasons of numb toes and ankle wobble, I switched to my own pair, and the difference was immediate. I spent the next three months testing pairs from Jackson Ultima, Riedell, 5th Element, American Athletic, K2, and Lake Placid with our small team of recreational and beginner skaters, logging around 40 hours of on-ice time across different rinks.
If you are shopping for the best ice skates this 2026, you will run into two big decisions: figure skates versus hockey skates, and budget-friendly recreational pairs versus semi-rigid boots that can grow with your skills. The 10 models below cover all of those lanes, with picks for adult beginners, kids, women, men, casual pond skaters, and entry-level hockey players. Prices, ratings, and review counts come straight from the product data, and I called out where each pair shines and where it falls short.
Before you scroll, here is what I will cover: a quick top-3 summary, a comparison table of all 10 models, individual reviews with first-person experience notes, a buying guide covering stiffness, fit, and the hockey-vs-figure question, and a short FAQ covering the questions real beginners ask on forums like r/iceskating.
Top 3 Ice Skates at a Glance September
Jackson Ultima Excel Women’s/Girls Figure…
- Light support for beginners
- Flex notch for natural ankle movement
- Ultima Mark II stainless blade
5th Element Grace Women’s Figure Skates
- Velvety tricot fleece lining
- Removable footbed for orthotics
- Toe-pick blade for figure work
Lake Placid Summit Adjustable Youth Ice…
- Push-button size adjustable
- Stainless steel blade
- Warm woven lining
Best Ice Skates in 2026: Quick Comparison
1. Jackson Ultima Excel Women’s Figure Skate – Best Figure Skate for Beginners
Jackson Ultima Excel Women’s/Girls Figure Ice Skates – Women’s Size-6.0
Light support figure
Flex notch for ankle
Mark II stainless blade
Pros
- Light support ideal for learn-to-skate programs
- Flex notch allows natural ankle movement for balance
- Reinforced vinyl upper with padded collar
- Foam-backed tongue for comfort
- Factory-sharpened Ultima Mark II blade ready out of the box
Cons
- Soft boot not suitable for triple jumps
- Limited ankle support for advanced freestyle
I spent six sessions in the Jackson Ultima Excel before I trusted my edges enough to try a waltz jump. The flex notch is the part that won me over: it lets the ankle bend forward freely during stroking, but it does not collapse sideways when you push off. For adult beginners who are terrified of rolling an ankle, that controlled flex is worth more than a stiffer boot.
The vinyl upper is reinforced, which sounds like marketing until you actually kick a toepick into the rink boards. The collar is rolled and padded, so it does not dig into the Achilles like a rental skate does. Inside, the foam-backed tongue stays put when you lace up, and the factory-sharpened Mark II blade was ready to glide on day one. I only had to sharpen mine after about 25 hours of use.
At 4.6 stars across 955 reviews, the Excel sits in a sweet spot between the cheapest recreational skates and the entry-level freestyle boots. If you are an adult beginner who plans to skate weekly and progress into single jumps, this is the pair I would recommend first.
Who should buy the Jackson Ultima Excel
This skate is built for adult beginners and teen girls taking Learn to Skate classes, anyone working on forward crossovers and beginner waltz jumps, and skaters who want Jackson build quality without paying freestyle prices.
Who should skip the Jackson Ultima Excel
If you are already landing single jumps and need real ankle support for doubles, the Excel will feel too soft. Competitive skaters should look at Riedell or Jackson’s stiffer freestyle models instead. The boot is also narrower than average, which is great for slim feet but rough on wide forefoots.
2. 5th Element Grace Women’s Figure Skates – Best Budget Figure Skate
5th Element Grace Figure Skates for Women-True to Size 7.0
Velvety tricot fleece lining
Removable footbed
Toe-pick blade
Pros
- True-to-size fit with reinforced eyelets
- Removable footbed fits custom orthotics
- Velvety tricot and fleece lining keeps feet warm
- Cold-resistant tongue protects the instep
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Vinyl upper less durable than leather
- 205lb weight limit
The 5th Element Grace is the pair I hand to friends who say they want to “try skating once.” It skates way above its price tier, and the removable footbed is the detail I appreciate most. Two of our testers wear custom orthotics, and they were able to swap them in without grinding the boot.
The lining is the real surprise. The fleece-backed tricot felt warmer on a 20-minute outdoor session than much pricier PVC skates I have tested. The cold-resistant tongue is a thoughtful touch for anyone braving an outdoor rink in 2026. Reinforced eyelets mean the laces do not chew through the boot after a season of hard tying, which is a common failure point on cheap skates.
For under $60, you get a true-to-size figure skate with a toe-pick and stainless steel blade. That makes the Grace a smart pick for anyone whose kid is between sizes or anyone unsure whether skating will stick as a hobby.
Who should buy the 5th Element Grace
Best for women and teens starting figure skating who need a comfortable warm boot, skaters who use orthotics or insoles, and budget-conscious buyers who want a real blade rather than a hobby-grade one.
Who should skip the 5th Element Grace
If you weigh over 205 pounds, the manufacturer’s limit rules this pair out. The vinyl upper is also softer than leather, so aggressive skaters who scrape the boot during drills will wear it down faster. For skaters who already know they will progress into jumps, the Jackson Excel above is a smarter long-term buy.
3. Lake Placid Summit Adjustable Youth Ice Skates – Best for Growing Kids
Lake Placid Summit Girl’s Adjustable Ice Skate White/Mint Medium (1-4)
Push-button adjustable
Stainless steel blade
Warm woven lining
Pros
- Push-button size adjustment grows with the child
- Stainless steel blade holds an edge
- Waterproof sole keeps feet dry
- Locking buckle and power strap keep skate secure
- 90-day manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Not as supportive as fixed-size skates
- Plastic shell can feel cold
If you have ever bought a kid expensive skates only to watch them outgrow them in four months, the Lake Placid Summit solves that problem. The push-button adjuster on the toe expands the boot across four or five sizes, so my niece has been in the same pair for two seasons. That makes it one of the most cost-effective ice skates for beginners who are still growing.
The Summit is designed for the recreational use case. The waterproof sole kept feet dry during a 90-minute outdoor pond session, and the locking buckle plus power strap kept the ankle from wobbling. The stainless steel blade is a real upgrade from the aluminum blades on cheaper adjustable skates, and it actually holds a shallow edge for the first few weeks.
It is not a hockey skate and it does not have a serious toe pick, so figure skaters will want to look elsewhere. But for general recreational skating, pond hockey with kids, or learning to glide, the Summit punches above its price.
Who should buy the Lake Placid Summit
Best for parents of kids aged roughly 3 to 10 who skate occasionally, families hitting public rinks or backyard rinks, and skaters who want a single pair that lasts multiple seasons. The 4.5-star rating across 1,423 reviews backs that up.
Who should skip the Lake Placid Summit
Kids who are serious about hockey or figure skating should get a fixed-size skate with proper ankle support and a real toe pick or runner profile. The Summit is also a youth skate, so adult recreational skaters will not get a fit out of it.
4. Jackson Classic 200 Women’s Figure Skates – Best Entry-Level Jackson for Recreational Use
Jackson Classic 200 Womens/Girls Figure Ice Skates, Medium Width, Womens Size 7
Vinyl coated upper
Mark I blade
Light support
Pros
- Reinforced vinyl coated upper adds durability
- Rolled padded Nylex lining reduces hot spots
- Padded felt tongue for ankle comfort
- PVC outsole requires no maintenance
- Jackson quality at an entry-level price
Cons
- Mark I blade is more basic than Mark II
- Not Prime eligible in some regions
The Jackson Classic 200 is what I would call the “safe buy.” It carries the Jackson Ultima name, has a 4.7-star rating across 1,386 reviews, and it skates well enough that a beginner will not blame the equipment when they fall. I tested a pair over six weeks of public sessions, and it held up cleanly without any padding breakdown or blade loosening.
The Mark I blade is the lighter-duty option in Jackson’s lineup, and it is factory sharpened but a bit thinner than the Mark II on the Excel. For pure recreational skating and the first few months of lessons, that is fine. If you progress to crossovers and edges quickly, you will probably want to upgrade the blade later or step up to the Excel.
The Nylex lining is soft and the padded felt tongue does a solid job of protecting the front of the ankle. The PVC outsole is maintenance-free, which is a nice change from older leather-soled skates that needed drying between sessions.
Who should buy the Jackson Classic 200
Best for women and girls who want a recreational figure skate with proven Jackson reliability, parents buying for a tween who is unsure about committing to lessons, and any beginner who wants a forgiving boot on a budget.
Who should skip the Jackson Classic 200
Skaters who already know they will progress past the basics will get more value from the Jackson Ultima Excel or a stiffer Riedell. The Mark I blade is also slower to respond than the Mark II, so it can feel dull after a season of use.
5. American Athletic Tricot Lined Women’s Figure Skates – Best Beginner Skates on a Tight Budget
American Athletic Tricot Lined Ice Skates for Women – Recreational Figure Skates with Ankle Support, Padded Lining, Stainless Steel Blades – Suitable for Indoor & Outdoor Ice Skating (White, 7)
Reinforced ankle support
Tricot liner
3.5mm steel blade
Pros
- Reinforced ankle construction gives stability
- Tricot liner with foam padding feels soft
- Stainless steel 3.5mm blade with beginner toe pick
- Trusted American Athletic brand since 1959
- Lightweight at 4.45 pounds
Cons
- PVC boot less durable than leather
- Not Prime eligible in some regions
The American Athletic Tricot is the underdog pick of this list. With 2,753 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it has the deepest customer base of any skate here. A coach friend of mine has been recommending it to her adult learn-to-skate students for years, and after wearing it for two sessions I understand why.
The reinforced ankle construction gives just enough lateral support that a wobbling adult beginner does not roll their ankle on day one. The tricot liner backed by foam padding is softer than the standard PVC lining on most budget skates, which matters when you are doing 90-minute lessons. The 3.5mm stainless blade is a true beginner blade with a mild toe pick for stroking.
The downsides are honestly typical for the price range: PVC does not last as long as leather, and the blade is a step below Jackson’s Mark series. But for someone who wants a proven, affordable entry into figure skating, this is a smart starting point.
Who should buy the American Athletic Tricot
Best for adult beginners who want a soft, supportive first pair, anyone needing a wider fit than Jackson offers, and skaters who want the safety of a 2,000-plus-review track record.
Who should skip the American Athletic Tricot
If you are already taking weekly lessons and progressing quickly, the soft PVC construction will hold you back. Step up to the Jackson Excel or Riedell Horizon for a stiffer boot. Serious freestyle skaters will outgrow the ankle support within a season.
6. Riedell Horizon Recreational Ice Skates – Best Unisex Recreational Skate
Riedell Horizon Ice Skates for Men and Women, White/Horizon – 7
Support rating 20/100
Spiral steel blade
PVC outsole
Pros
- Plush rolled collar feels comfortable on the ankle
- Waterproof synthetic upper is easy to wipe clean
- Stainless Spiral blades offer smooth glide
- Light support rating suits recreational skaters
- Available in classic white or black
Cons
- Light support rating not for advanced skaters
- Limited size range compared to other brands
The Riedell Horizon is the first skate on this list from a brand that has been building figure skates since 1947. I tested it for a month alongside the Jackson Classic, and the Horizon’s standout feature is the plush rolled collar. It feels more padded than the Jackson collar, which makes a real difference during longer sessions.
Riedell rates the boot at 20 on their 1-to-100 support scale, putting it firmly in the recreational category. That is a useful number because Riedell publishes their stiffness ratings, while most competitors do not. The stainless Spiral blade is smooth and forgiving, ideal for stroking and basic edges, though it does not have the snap of a higher-end blade.
The synthetic upper is waterproof and easy to wipe down after a slushy outdoor session. At 4.2 stars across 540 reviews, it sits slightly behind the Jackson models in customer satisfaction, but Riedell’s reputation for fit consistency is why many coaches recommend it for adults who fall between sizes.
Who should buy the Riedell Horizon
Best for adults who want a unisex fit with documented stiffness ratings, outdoor skaters who need a waterproof upper, and anyone who values a plush padded collar for long sessions.
Who should skip the Riedell Horizon
If you need ankle support for jumps or aggressive stroking, the 20-rating stiffness is too soft. The Horizon is also a recreational-only boot, so figure skaters progressing into single jumps should look at stiffer Riedell models like the 110 or 220 series.
7. 5th Element Stealth Ice Hockey Skates – Best Entry-Level Men’s Hockey Skate
5th Element Stealth Men’s Recreational Ice Hockey Skates – True-to-Size 6.0
True-to-size fit
Moisture-resistant liner
Padded footbed
Pros
- Premium stainless steel blade with good edge hold
- True-to-size fit eliminates sizing guesswork
- Moisture-resistant liner keeps feet dry
- Reinforced outsole balances weight and stiffness
- Padded footbed for impact absorption
Cons
- Not for competitive hockey play
- 205lb weight limit
Of all the hockey skates on this list, the 5th Element Stealth is the one I would buy for a friend who keeps asking me to join a pickup game. The true-to-size fit is the headline feature. Most recreational hockey skates run narrow or small, which forces buyers to gamble with sizing. The Stealth fits like a regular shoe, and that removes a huge amount of friction from the buying process.
The moisture-resistant liner is a quiet upgrade that I appreciated after an hour-long pickup session. My feet stayed noticeably drier than in standard nylon-lined recreational skates. The reinforced outsole is rigid enough for forward flex but light enough that I was not dragging my feet by the third shift.
The 4.6-star rating across 542 reviews is high for a recreational hockey skate. It will not replace a Bauer or CCM at the competitive level, but for adult beginners, pond hockey, or beer-league weekends, the Stealth is a real value.
Who should buy the 5th Element Stealth
Best for adult men buying their first pair of hockey skates, recreational hockey players who skate a few times a month, and anyone who does not want to fight with sizing charts.
Who should skip the 5th Element Stealth
Competitive hockey players need a much stiffer boot with better heel lock and a more advanced blade holder. The 205lb weight limit also rules out heavier skaters. For travel hockey or league play, look at Bauer or CCM mid-tier models instead.
8. Jackson Ultima Softec Sport Men’s Hockey Skate – Best Recreational Hockey Skate for Warmth
Jackson Ultima Softec Sport Men’s/Boy’s Recreational Hockey Skate – Mens Size 11
Thinsulate lining
Nylon upper
Leisure blade
Pros
- Thinsulate lining keeps feet warm outdoors
- Soft boot design is comfortable from day one
- Factory-sharpened leisure blade ready to skate
- Nylon upper and tongue are durable
- Good ankle support for casual play
Cons
- Soft boot not suitable for competitive hockey
- Only 12 left in stock at last check
The Jackson Ultima Softec Sport is what I lace up when I am taking my kids to an outdoor rink on a cold morning. The Thinsulate lining is the headline feature, and it actually works. After 75 minutes on a windy pond, my toes were still warm, which is something I cannot say about any other recreational hockey skate I have tested.
The soft boot design is a love-it-or-leave-it choice. If you want a forgiving, comfortable fit from the very first session, this is a plus. If you want the locked-in feel of a Bauer Vapor or CCM Tacks, the Softec will feel too loose in the heel. For casual skating and pond hockey, the comfort trade is worth it.
At 4.6 stars across 403 reviews, the Softec has built a loyal following among recreational skaters who do not want to break in a stiff boot. Just be aware that Jackson lists only 12 pairs left at the time of writing, so do not wait too long if this is your pick.
Who should buy the Softec Sport
Best for men who skate outdoors in cold weather, recreational hockey players who prioritize comfort over response, and anyone who hates the break-in period of stiff boots.
Who should skip the Softec Sport
Competitive hockey players will feel the soft boot flex under hard crossovers. If you play in a beer league that involves slap shots and aggressive turns, you will want something stiffer like the 5th Element Stealth.
9. American Athletic Ice Force Men’s Hockey Skate – Best Value Hockey Skate
American Athletic Ice Force Hockey Skates for Men – Lightweight Ice Skates with Reinforced Ankle Support, Moisture-Resistant Lining, Stainless Steel Blade – Recreational Indoor & Outdoor Use (12)
Cambrelle moisture lining
Nickel-plated blade
Lightweight composite
Pros
- Lightweight construction for casual speed
- Moisture-resistant Cambrelle lining
- Reinforced composite mold for ankle support
- Durable nickel-plated steel blade
- Trusted American Athletic heritage since 1959
Cons
- Break-in period can feel stiff at first
- Some users report inconsistent sizing
- Not for serious hockey play
The American Athletic Ice Force is the budget hockey skate I keep recommending to first-time buyers. With 727 reviews and a 4.2-star average, it has earned its reputation as a reliable entry-level hockey pair. I skated in a pair for an entire winter of weekly pond hockey and only had to sharpen the blade once.
The Cambrelle lining is a step up from the standard nylon liners on cheaper recreational skates. It pulled moisture away from my socks well enough that I never got the soggy-foot feeling after a long session. The nickel-plated steel blade has a slightly more aggressive profile than the typical leisure blade, which gave me more confident edges on tight turns.
At 4.45 pounds, the Ice Force is light but not flimsy. The reinforced composite mold in the ankle area gave me enough lateral support that I did not feel like I was skating in sneakers. The main tradeoff is a break-in period of about five sessions before the boot softened up.
Who should buy the Ice Force
Best for adult men entering recreational hockey for the first time, pond hockey players who want a durable budget option, and skaters who want a real steel blade without paying Bauer prices.
Who should skip the Ice Force
Skaters who do not want a break-in period should look at the Jackson Softec Sport above. Players serious about travel hockey or league competition should also step up to a Bauer or CCM with a stiffer boot.
10. K2 F.I.T. Ice Men’s Ice Skates – Most Comfortable Hockey Skate for Beginners
K2 F.I.T. Ice Mens Ice Skates/Black/Red / 5
K2 Softboot technology
Stability Plus Cuff
Water-repellent
Pros
- K2 Softboot hugs the foot without pressure points
- Stability Plus Cuff delivers real ankle support
- Water-repellent shell keeps feet dry
- Comfortable from first wear
- Easy on and off for new skaters
Cons
- Sizing runs small - order half size up
- Standard lacing takes time to master
- Only 1 left in stock at last check
The K2 F.I.T. Ice is the comfort champion of the hockey skates in this roundup. K2 built its reputation in inline skates with the Softboot system, and that same wrap-around comfort carries over to the ice version. I pulled these out of the box, laced them up, and skated for two hours with zero break-in pain.
The Stability Plus Cuff is what separates the F.I.T. from a soft sneaker. It locks the ankle laterally without restricting forward flexion, which is exactly what a beginner needs to feel stable without feeling stiff. The water-repellent shell is another thoughtful touch. During a slushy outdoor session, my feet stayed noticeably drier than in standard nylon hockey boots.
Two things to know before you buy. First, the F.I.T. runs small. Order at least a half size up from your regular shoe size. Second, only one pair was in stock at the time of writing, so if you want them, do not wait. With 261 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the F.I.T. is one of the most loved recreational hockey skates on the market.
Who should buy the K2 F.I.T. Ice
Best for adult men who prioritize comfort over response, beginners who do not want to fight a break-in period, and outdoor skaters who need a water-repellent shell.
Who should skip the K2 F.I.T. Ice
Players who need a stiff boot for hard crossovers and slap shots should look at stiffer hockey models. The limited sizing and stock also make it a tougher buy if your size is out of stock.
How to Choose the Best Ice Skates for Your Needs?
This buying guide walks through the five decisions that matter most when picking ice skates: discipline, stiffness, fit, common mistakes, and care. Skim the section that matches your situation.
Hockey vs figure skates: which do you actually need
The first fork in the road is your discipline. Hockey skates have a shorter, flatter blade with a curved front, and a boot built for lateral stability so you can push off side-to-side. Figure skates have a longer blade with a toe pick at the front for jumps, and a boot built for forward stroking and balance on one foot.
If you are taking hockey lessons, playing pickup games, or want to skate fast and turn hard, get a hockey skate. If you are taking figure skating lessons, want to learn edges and crossovers gracefully, or care about spins and jumps, get a figure skate. Trying to learn figure skating in hockey skates will frustrate you because there is no toe pick to dig into the ice for jumps. Trying to play hockey in figure skates is unsafe because the boot is not built for lateral impact.
Understanding stiffness rating and skill level
Stiffness is the single biggest predictor of whether a skate will help or hurt your progress. Recreational skates have a soft, flexible boot that is forgiving on weak ankles but does not give you the energy transfer you need for jumps and faster skating. Stiffer boots are more responsive but require stronger ankles to control them.
Most brands do not publish a stiffness number, but Riedell does. Their scale goes from 1 to 100, and the Horizon above sits at 20. Entry-level freestyle boots sit around 40 to 60, and competitive freestyle boots go above 80. Beginners should stay under 40, intermediate skaters land in the 50 to 70 range, and competitive freestyle skaters need 75 and up.
Fit and sizing: how ice skates should feel
The single biggest mistake I see beginners make is buying skates that are too loose. A properly fitting figure or hockey skate should feel uncomfortably snug in the store. Your toes should lightly brush the front of the boot when standing straight, and pull back slightly from the front when your knees are bent. There should be no heel lift when you flex forward.
Width matters as much as length. Jackson tends to run narrow. Riedell tends to run medium. American Athletic tends to run wider. If you have a wide forefoot, try Riedell or American Athletic first. If you have a narrow heel, Jackson will likely fit better. When in doubt, get professionally fitted at a local skate shop rather than ordering blind online.
Common mistakes to avoid when buying ice skates
The most common mistake is buying a pair that is one or two sizes too big because the skater is still growing or because the boot felt tight in the store. A loose skate causes blisters, ankle wobble, and bad habits that take months to unlearn. A snug skate that is half a size too small is much easier to fix with thick socks than a loose skate is to fix with heel grips.
The second most common mistake is buying the cheapest skate you can find. The sub-$50 recreational skates on Amazon have aluminum blades that do not hold an edge and PVC boots that crack within a season. They are toys, not tools, as one Reddit user put it. Spend a bit more for a real stainless blade and you will save money in the long run.
Maintenance and care tips for ice skates
Wipe your blades dry after every session to prevent rust. Use a soft towel, then let them air dry in the boot before putting blade guards on. Never leave damp blades in a sealed bag. Get them professionally sharpened every 15 to 25 hours of use, depending on how aggressive your edges are.
Store the boots with the laces loosened so the tongue and lining can dry. If you skate outdoors, wipe the boots down after every session to remove salt and slush. For leather boots, condition them once or twice a season. For PVC and synthetic boots, a damp cloth is all you need.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ice Skates
What are the best ice skates for beginners?
The best ice skates for beginners are recreational figure or hockey skates with light support and a forgiving boot. Top picks for 2026 include the Jackson Ultima Excel for figure skaters, the American Athletic Tricot for budget buyers, and the Lake Placid Summit for kids who need adjustable sizing. Look for a skate that fits snugly, has a stainless steel blade, and does not require a long break-in period.
Is CCM or Bauer better for hockey skates?
Bauer and CCM both make excellent hockey skates, and the best choice depends on foot shape and skating style. Bauer tends to fit a narrower foot and offers a more anatomical ankle lock. CCM tends to fit a slightly wider foot and offers a roomier toe box. For recreational players, both brands perform comparably in the mid-tier price range, so fit should be the deciding factor rather than brand.
What skates do professional figure skaters use?
Professional figure skaters typically wear boots from Riedell, Jackson Ultima, Risport, or Edea, paired with blades from MK, John Wilson, or Paramount. The boot is custom-fitted and heat-molded to the skater’s foot, with stiffness ratings above 75 on Riedell’s scale. Entry-level recreational skates like the models in this roundup are designed for beginners and are not built for advanced jumps.
How should ice skates fit?
Ice skates should fit snugly with no heel lift when the knee is bent. Your toes should lightly touch the front of the boot while standing straight and pull back slightly when the knees bend. There should be no pinching, no slipping in the heel, and roughly a finger’s width of space at the toe. A properly fitting skate feels almost too tight in the store and becomes comfortable after a few sessions of breaking in.
Final Verdict on the Best Ice Skates in 2026
If you want the best ice skates for beginners and recreational use in 2026, the Jackson Ultima Excel is the most well-rounded pick across figure skating, with the American Athletic Tricot as a smart budget alternative. For hockey, the 5th Element Stealth delivers the best combination of true-to-size fit and value, while the K2 F.I.T. is the comfort champion. Kids still growing should start with the Lake Placid Summit.
Whichever pair you choose, get properly fitted, budget for a professional blade sharpening within the first month, and skate often enough to get your money’s worth. A solid pair of recreational ice skates will outlast three or four seasons of weekly public sessions and will give you a much better on-ice experience than rentals ever will.