Tips on Skates
KEEP YOUR SKATES SHARP!
A lot of goaltenders I've talked with tell me that they like to keep their
skates as dull as possible. Their rationale is that they're more able to
perform their post-to-post movements this way. To that, I say "SHARP SKATES!"
Have you ever heard the mantra "the goaltender needs to be his/her team's
best skater"? Well, it's true, and with the number of things a modern
goaltender does with their skating (playing the puck, challenging the
shooter, etc.), it's imperative to have your skates sharp. But what about
lateral movement, you say? Work on it! You'll find that your movements
are just as crisp with sharp skates; maybe even sharper, now that your skates
are sharp enough to push off with. What do I recommend? Well, I use a
3/4" radius on my goal skates, and have them sharpened about once per month.
Your mileage may vary, though, so try a few hollows and see what you like.
(Doug Norris)