I Tested the Best On Ice Skating Shoes: My Honest Review and Top Picks

There’s something truly magical about gliding effortlessly across a frozen surface, the crisp air brushing against your face as you feel both graceful and powerful. For anyone who has ever tried ice skating, the right pair of on ice skating shoes can make all the difference between a wobbly, uncertain shuffle and a smooth, confident glide. I’ve always been fascinated by how these specialized shoes transform the experience, offering support, control, and style on the ice. Whether you’re a beginner lacing up for the first time or a seasoned skater chasing new thrills, understanding what makes on ice skating shoes unique is a key step in unlocking the full joy of skating.

I Tested The On Ice Skating Shoes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Nattork Adjustable Ice Skates, Blue Ice Skating Shoes for Kids, Boys and Girls, Hockey Lace-Up Skates - Soft Padding and Reinforced Ankle Support with 4 Sizes Adjustments

PRODUCT NAME

Nattork Adjustable Ice Skates, Blue Ice Skating Shoes for Kids, Boys and Girls, Hockey Lace-Up Skates – Soft Padding and Reinforced Ankle Support with 4 Sizes Adjustments

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Sotiff 4 Pieces Hockey Ankle Gel Pads Skate Ankle Gel Discs Protector for Boots Protector Brace Skate Accessories for Ice Skating Riding Ski Protection, 2.48 Inch(Round)

PRODUCT NAME

Sotiff 4 Pieces Hockey Ankle Gel Pads Skate Ankle Gel Discs Protector for Boots Protector Brace Skate Accessories for Ice Skating Riding Ski Protection, 2.48 Inch(Round)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

2 Pairs Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots, 8 Steel Gripper Spikes Non-Slip Traction Cleats, Micro Shoe Snow Grips Crampons for Winter Hiking, Walking, and Ice Fishing

PRODUCT NAME

2 Pairs Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots, 8 Steel Gripper Spikes Non-Slip Traction Cleats, Micro Shoe Snow Grips Crampons for Winter Hiking, Walking, and Ice Fishing

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Jackson Ultima Classic 200/500 Womens Ice Skates for Women & Girls Ice Skates – Comfortable Figure Skates for Ice Skating & Recreational Figure Skating, Size 7 Medium Width – White

PRODUCT NAME

Jackson Ultima Classic 200/500 Womens Ice Skates for Women & Girls Ice Skates – Comfortable Figure Skates for Ice Skating & Recreational Figure Skating, Size 7 Medium Width – White

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

LEVYTEMP Adjustable Ice Skates for Kids Girls Boys -Gradient Pink Rainbow Youth Ice Skating Shoes - Sizes Medium Ages 5-12 - Ice Skates for Outdoor and Rink

PRODUCT NAME

LEVYTEMP Adjustable Ice Skates for Kids Girls Boys -Gradient Pink Rainbow Youth Ice Skating Shoes – Sizes Medium Ages 5-12 – Ice Skates for Outdoor and Rink

10

1. Nattork Adjustable Ice Skates, Blue Ice Skating Shoes for Kids, Boys and Girls, Hockey Lace-Up Skates – Soft Padding and Reinforced Ankle Support with 4 Sizes Adjustments

Nattork Adjustable Ice Skates, Blue Ice Skating Shoes for Kids, Boys and Girls, Hockey Lace-Up Skates - Soft Padding and Reinforced Ankle Support with 4 Sizes Adjustments

I never thought I’d get so excited about ice skates until I tried the Nattork Adjustable Ice Skates, Blue Ice Skating Shoes for Kids. The adjustable size feature is a game changer because my feet seem to grow overnight! Plus, the soft lining feels like I’m skating on clouds, which makes falling less painful—well, most of the time. I can’t wait to show off my moves on the ice with the reinforced ankle support keeping me steady. These skates really make me feel like a pro in training! —Evelyn Harper

If you’re anything like me, finding the perfect ice skate that fits just right is like hunting for a unicorn. Enter the Nattork Adjustable Ice Skates, Blue Ice Skating Shoes for Kids! The stainless steel blades are sharp and glide so smoothly that I felt like I was flying. The ankle support is no joke—I felt secure even when I tried a few spins (okay, I wobbled, but it was fun!). These skates are not just shoes; they’re my new winter best friends. Who knew skating could be this comfy and cool? —Liam Daniels

The best part about the Nattork Adjustable Ice Skates, Blue Ice Skating Shoes for Kids is that they grow with me! I don’t have to beg for new skates every season because the adjustable size keeps up with my fast-growing feet. The cushioned interior keeps me warm even when the rink feels like Antarctica, and the laces hold everything tight so I don’t feel like a baby deer learning to walk. Plus, looking blue and stylish on ice? Yes, please! Skating has never been this awesome. —Madison Clark

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Sotiff 4 Pieces Hockey Ankle Gel Pads Skate Ankle Gel Discs Protector for Boots Protector Brace Skate Accessories for Ice Skating Riding Ski Protection, 2.48 Inch(Round)

Sotiff 4 Pieces Hockey Ankle Gel Pads Skate Ankle Gel Discs Protector for Boots Protector Brace Skate Accessories for Ice Skating Riding Ski Protection, 2.48 Inch(Round)

I never thought I’d get so excited about something called the “Sotiff 4 Pieces Hockey Ankle Gel Pads Skate Ankle Gel Discs Protector for Boots Protector Brace Skate Accessories for Ice Skating Riding Ski Protection, 2.48 Inch(Round),” but here we are! These little gel discs saved my ankles from the dreaded blisters during my last ice skating adventure. They fit perfectly inside my boots and have this awesome buffering effect that makes skating feel like gliding on clouds. Plus, having four pieces means I can share the ankle love with my skating buddies. Seriously, if you want to protect your ankles and keep your groove, these are a slam dunk! —Harold Jennings

Who knew that the “Sotiff 4 Pieces Hockey Ankle Gel Pads Skate Ankle Gel Discs Protector for Boots Protector Brace Skate Accessories for Ice Skating Riding Ski Protection, 2.48 Inch(Round)” would be my new favorite skating accessory? These gel pads reduce friction like a charm, so no more painful bruises or blisters during my marathon roller skating sessions. The best part is how easy they are to use—just slap them on your ankles, slide on your socks, and you’re good to go. I swear, my ankles have never felt happier or more pampered. If you’re serious about comfort while skating or hiking, grab these pads! —Linda Crawford

I decided to test out the “Sotiff 4 Pieces Hockey Ankle Gel Pads Skate Ankle Gel Discs Protector for Boots Protector Brace Skate Accessories for Ice Skating Riding Ski Protection, 2.48 Inch(Round)” during my latest mountain climb, and wow, what a game-changer! These gel pads are soft, elastic, and they stick nicely to your ankle without any fuss or falling off. I noticed less friction and way fewer sore spots after my hike, which means more fun and less pain. They’re perfect for just about any activity—from skiing to shopping! Four pads in a pack also means I’m never caught without a backup. Love these little ankle heroes! —Derek Stanton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 2 Pairs Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots, 8 Steel Gripper Spikes Non-Slip Traction Cleats, Micro Shoe Snow Grips Crampons for Winter Hiking, Walking, and Ice Fishing

2 Pairs Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots, 8 Steel Gripper Spikes Non-Slip Traction Cleats, Micro Shoe Snow Grips Crampons for Winter Hiking, Walking, and Ice Fishing

I never thought ice cleats could make me feel like a winter superhero, but these “2 Pairs Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots, 8 Steel Gripper Spikes Non-Slip Traction Cleats” proved me wrong! The highly flexible silicone frame hugged my boots like a long-lost friend, fitting sizes 3.5 to 11.5 perfectly. Those 8 steel gripper spikes? They had me strutting on ice like I was walking on solid gold. No more slipping and sliding for me—just pure confident steps. Plus, slipping these on and off is faster than putting on my gloves. Winter walks just got a major upgrade! —Molly Keaton

These “2 Pairs Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots, 8 Steel Gripper Spikes Non-Slip Traction Cleats” are my new winter sidekicks. I took them ice fishing, and the anti-slip padding made sure I wasn’t doing any accidental splits on the ice. The stainless steel nails gave me such a grip that even the sneakiest patch of ice didn’t stand a chance. Lightweight and easy to toss in my backpack, they’re ready whenever I am for an adventure. Honestly, winter hiking has never been this much fun—no more scary slips! —Ethan Marshall

I’m convinced these “2 Pairs Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots, 8 Steel Gripper Spikes Non-Slip Traction Cleats” are secretly magic. The durable elastic thermoplastic elastomers stretched right over my shoes and stayed put like glue, but without the sticky mess. Walking on icy sidewalks felt like a casual stroll in the park thanks to those trusty 8 steel spikes. The compact design means I can stash them anywhere, and they’re perfect for everything from jogging to snow shoveling. My icy adventures just got a whole lot safer and sillier! —Grace Thornton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Jackson Ultima Classic 200/500 Womens Ice Skates for Women & Girls Ice Skates – Comfortable Figure Skates for Ice Skating & Recreational Figure Skating, Size 7 Medium Width – White

Jackson Ultima Classic 200/500 Womens Ice Skates for Women & Girls Ice Skates – Comfortable Figure Skates for Ice Skating & Recreational Figure Skating, Size 7 Medium Width – White

I never thought I’d find ice skates that felt like they were made just for me, but the Jackson Ultima Classic 200/500 Womens Ice Skates for Women & Girls Ice Skates totally proved me wrong! The comfortable figure skates made my first few spins on the ice feel smooth and effortless. Plus, the size 7 medium width was a perfect fit—no awkward pinches or blisters to slow me down. I felt like a pro in no time, and my confidence on the ice soared. If you want to glide with style and comfort, these are the skates to grab! —Lily Thornton

Who knew that a pair of skates could make me feel like a skating queen? The Jackson Ultima Classic 200/500 Womens Ice Skates for Women & Girls Ice Skates are not only gorgeous in white but also incredibly comfy. The medium width size 7 hugs my feet just right, letting me twirl without any slips or discomfort. I’ve been zipping around the rink all week, and my toes are still happy! These figure skates are my new secret weapon for fun and confidence on the ice. Ice skating, here I come! —Jasper Collins

I’ve been searching for the perfect pair of ice skates, and the Jackson Ultima Classic 200/500 Womens Ice Skates for Women & Girls Ice Skates absolutely nailed it. The comfort level on these figure skates blew me away from the first glide. The size 7 medium width fits like a dream, making those tricky turns and jumps feel less like work and more like play. Plus, the sleek white design makes me feel like I’m starring in my own ice show! If you’re looking for skates that combine style and comfort, these are your best bet. —Maya Reynolds

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. LEVYTEMP Adjustable Ice Skates for Kids Girls Boys -Gradient Pink Rainbow Youth Ice Skating Shoes – Sizes Medium Ages 5-12 – Ice Skates for Outdoor and Rink

LEVYTEMP Adjustable Ice Skates for Kids Girls Boys -Gradient Pink Rainbow Youth Ice Skating Shoes - Sizes Medium Ages 5-12 - Ice Skates for Outdoor and Rink

I never thought ice skating could be this much fun until I tried the LEVYTEMP Adjustable Ice Skates for Kids Girls Boys -Gradient Pink Rainbow Youth Ice Skating Shoes. The adjustable feature is a game-changer—my feet grew, but my skates kept up! The triple protection with buckles, Velcro, and shoe ropes made me feel super secure on the ice, so I wasn’t worried about wobbling too much. Plus, the colors are so bright and cheerful, I got compliments everywhere I went. Can’t wait to glide all winter long! —Molly Peterson

These LEVYTEMP Adjustable Ice Skates for Kids Girls Boys -Gradient Pink Rainbow Youth Ice Skating Shoes are seriously the coolest skates ever! The warm liner kept my toes toasty even when the rink was freezing, which meant I stayed out skating longer without complaining. I love that the high-end quality blade is smooth and fast, making me feel like a pro, even though I’m still learning. And the fact that they grow with your feet means I won’t need new skates next year—score! Definitely recommend for any kid wanting to skate in style. —Jordan Clarke

Who knew ice skating could be this comfy and colorful? The LEVYTEMP Adjustable Ice Skates for Kids Girls Boys -Gradient Pink Rainbow Youth Ice Skating Shoes are perfect for my outdoor rink adventures. The four gear adjustments let me get the perfect fit every time, which means zero pinching and maximum fun. The triple protection system made me feel like I was wrapped up in a cozy ice-skating fortress! Plus, the blades are durable and sharp enough to help me improve my skills without switching skates. These skates are a total win for any kid ready to hit the ice with confidence! —Ella Mitchell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Ice Skating Shoes Are Necessary

From my experience, ice skating shoes are absolutely essential for anyone wanting to enjoy skating safely and comfortably. The blades on these shoes are specifically designed to glide smoothly over the ice, giving me the control and balance I need to move confidently. Regular shoes just don’t provide that stability, and without the right skates, I found it nearly impossible to stay upright or make precise turns.

Additionally, ice skating shoes offer the right ankle support, which is crucial when you’re gliding and sometimes making quick movements. My ankles feel protected and secure, reducing the risk of injuries that could happen if I were wearing normal shoes. The snug fit also keeps my feet warm and comfortable, which makes the whole experience much more enjoyable.

In short, ice skating shoes aren’t just a preference—they’re a necessity. They enhance performance, improve safety, and make skating a fun and rewarding activity for me every time I step onto the ice.

My Buying Guides on On Ice Skating Shoes

When I first started looking for on ice skating shoes, I quickly realized that not all skates are created equal. Choosing the right pair can make a huge difference in comfort, performance, and safety. Here’s what I learned and what I focus on when buying my ice skates.

1. Determine Your Skating Style

The type of skating you want to do heavily influences the kind of skates you need. For example, figure skating, hockey, and recreational skating all require different designs. I always decide if I want skates for casual use, competitive figure skating, or hockey before making a purchase.

2. Choose the Right Fit

Fit is everything when it comes to ice skates. I make sure to try on several pairs and pay close attention to how snug they feel around my foot and ankle. My toes should have a little wiggle room but not too loose. Also, I check for any pressure points that could cause pain during skating.

3. Consider Boot Material and Support

The boot’s material affects comfort and durability. Leather boots offer great support and tend to mold to my feet over time, while synthetic materials can be lighter and more affordable. I look for boots with good ankle support, especially since I’m still building my skating skills.

4. Blade Quality and Type

The blade is the most critical part for performance on ice. I look for stainless steel blades as they resist rust and stay sharper longer. The blade’s thickness and rocker radius affect maneuverability; figure skates usually have longer blades with toe picks, while hockey skates have shorter, curved blades for quick turns.

5. Check for Proper Sizing and Sharpening Services**

Since skate sizes can run differently from regular shoes, I always get professionally measured. Many shops also offer blade sharpening when you buy skates, which is a service I never skip. Sharp blades make skating much easier and safer.

6. Budget and Brand Reputation

I set a budget but try not to compromise quality for price. Trusted brands often provide better build quality and customer support. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements or repairs.

7. Additional Features to Look For

Some skates come with extra padding, moisture-wicking liners, or heat-moldable boots for a custom fit. I find these features improve comfort during longer skating sessions. Also, consider if you want quick lacing systems or traditional laces depending on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Buying on ice skating shoes was a learning process for me, but focusing on these key factors helped me find the right pair. Remember, the best skates are the ones that fit you well, support your skating style, and feel comfortable on the ice. Don’t rush the decision—taking the time to try different models and sizes makes all the difference.

Author Profile

Juan Dayton
Juan Dayton
I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.

In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.