Req 2a5 — Storing Skates

Proper off-season storage extends the life of your blades and boots. Skates that are stored incorrectly — with damp blades, in compressed bags, or in extreme heat — can arrive next fall rusty, cracked, or misshapen.

Steps for Seasonal Storage

1. Dry the blades completely. After the last skate of the season, wipe the blades with a dry cloth. Let the skates air-dry completely — several hours in a room-temperature space — before storage. Never store damp skates.

2. Do not use hard blade guards for long-term storage. Hard plastic guards trap moisture against the blade and accelerate rust. After drying, switch to cloth blade covers (also called “soakers”) or store blades bare in a breathable skate bag.

3. Loosen the laces. Lacing boots tightly during storage compresses the interior padding and can weaken the boot structure over time. Loosen the laces fully or remove them for multi-month storage.

4. Store upright or supported. Keep boots upright (as if standing) rather than lying on their sides, which can deform the blade holder or boot sole over time. Some skaters stuff the boots with newspaper or a boot shaper to help them hold their shape.

5. Avoid temperature extremes. Store skates in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area — not in a car trunk, an unventilated attic in summer, or a damp garage. Heat can cause glues to break down, and humidity promotes rust and mold.

6. Check blade condition before next season. When you retrieve your skates, inspect the blades for rust spots (treat lightly with a rust-removing cloth if needed), check that all screws are tight, and get a sharpening if the blades have not been used in months.

Official Resources