Info & Tips

According to Statista, there are over 10 million active ice skaters in the US since 2017 and even more that learn to skate every year.

This figure has increased steadily ever since.

Around the holiday period, that "learn to skate" figure hits fever pitch.

The cold weather means more ice rinks, frozen lakes, and persons creating their backyard ice rinks.

It’s skating with friends and family around Christmas lights.

Even those who have no access to natural ice get synthetic ice panels so that they could enjoy skating in their homes. 

With every passing Holiday season we see people lacing-up skates for the very first time.

They want to learn to skate but are a bit scared to get out on the ice.

On a large rink, that expanse of ice feels intimidating.

Even on synthetic ice, new skaters can feel a little bit out of their depth at first.

If you’re thinking about skating, we encourage you to jump right in.

But First, Why Should I Pick Up Ice Skating?

Skating is one of the best complete body exercises around.

You need full control of your body and legs, and you’ll feel your calves, hamstrings, and core burn as you learn to skate.

Ice skating improves your flexibility, balance and increases your endurance.

The constant movement does wonders for your cardiovascular system and weight management.

Just one hour on the ice can burn up to 850 calories.

Best of all, ice skating brings people together to have fun with ice sports and build a community sense.

You’ll have fun with your friends, family, and even pick up a long-term hobby.

So if you’re ready to learn to skate, these ten tips will help bring you at ease.

Let's Get Started

Of course, before you learn to skate, you need to have some essentials.

First, make sure you’ve dressed appropriately for skating.

If you’re skating at a rink, dress warmly without bundling up too much.

You still want to move freely, after all.

Wear a long-sleeved top and a beanie or hat to keep your head warm.

For synthetic ice rinks, the temperature should be in your favor.

However, in both cases, wear leggings or comfortable pants.

Jeans will make ice skating uncomfortable and difficult.

Some persons wear helmets at first.

It’s not a requirement but can be useful in certain circumstances.

Kids learning hockey, for example, should wear a helmet. 

1. The Most Crucial Tool You’ll Need.

Of course, you’ll need a pair of ice skates to learn to skate.

In most cases, you can rent a pair of skates.

However, if you’re looking to skate long-term, consider investing in a pair.

This is especially true for those who have their synthetic ice rinks or plan to create one at home.

There are different skates for different sports and applications.

Figure skating and hockey each have their type of skates.

As a starter, however, you should get a pair of recreational skates.

As you improve or decide to pursue a particular type of skating activity, you can get the relevant skates you will need to learn to skate.

Comfort is critical here.

Make sure your skates are snug, with just enough space for your toes to breathe.

For kids, avoid buying skates that are too big in the hopes that they grow into them.

This can easily cause injury.

Lace your skates up tight so that they feel like a part of your foot.

Now it’s time to learn to skate!

2. Walk Before You Skate.

The goal for a new skater is to get accustomed to the ice beneath your feet.

Start off by marching in place.

When that feels good, you can start marching forward slowly.

It’s ok if you need some support.

This might mean holding onto a rail, wall, or friend.

For many, synthetic ice feels a bit more comfortable to march on, and you’ll get the hang of walking a bit faster due to the slight difference in friction between natural ice and synthetic ice.

Keep your arms in front of you for balance, then practice simple steps and glides.

Before you know it, you’ll experience your first fall. 

3. You Can’t Skate Without Falling.

Falling is inevitable in skating. If you watch figure skating, even seasoned professionals fall.

So as a part of your ice skating lesson, you'll need to learn how to fall as you learn to skate.

If you feel yourself losing balance, bend your knees and if you start falling, fall to the side.

To get back up, turn over to your hands and knees.

Bring one foot between your hands, then the other, using your hands to balance as you get back on both feet.

Falling could be jarring at first, but you can’t go skate with a fear of falling.

In time, you’ll get more accustomed to falling.

4. Learn How to Stop Safely.

As you start moving and grooving, you’ll need to learn how to stop on the ice.

There are actually a few ways you can stop on the ice.

Two popular techniques include:

• The Snowplow Stop: One of the simplest ways to stop on the ice. As you move, place your arms out in front of you (not too wide, not too narrow) at shoulder height. Bend your needs slightly, which will help you decelerate, then start moving your legs slightly outward to form a ‘V,’ with your toes pointing inward. You will absorb the energy of your skates and come to a stop. Keep your chest upright, so you don’t fall over on your face. 
• The Hockey Stop: The hockey stop works well if you’re picking up speed. Slightly bend your knees and then check your hips and turn your skates to one side. Picture yourself pushing your feet into the ice to help you stop quickly. Practice stopping on alternate legs so you’ll feel comfortable stopping no matter which direction you find yourself. 

5. Keep Your Eyes "Off" the Prize.

Similar to walking, try not to look at your feet when you’re skating.

This could actually distract you from moving and mess with your form.

If you learn to skate with other people, you can easily bump into them or injure yourself if you’re not looking ahead.

It can feel intimidating, but you’ll get the hang of it faster looking straight ahead than looking down. 

6. Focus On Your Form. 

With ice skating, your form is a vital part.

The more you practice your form, the easier it will be to skate.

For instance, have a slight bend in your knees as much and possible.

Lean forward slightly as well to help with your balance.

Practice your marching, “scooting,” and gliding (with some falls in between).

Take your time as you learn to push off from one foot and the other.

Beginners should not worry about how they appear to others.

Focus on form to minimize falls and improve the experience.

7. Pick Up Other Useful Moves.

Marching in place and scooting forward is just the start.

You’ll need to pick up some other moves to make skating more enjoyable.

Forward stroking, for instance, is a common ice-skating technique.

As you glide, form a T position with your arms spread outward, knees slightly bent.

Push off from the inside edge of your blade on one foot, and glide slightly on the other foot and make sure to transfer your weight to the front foot.

Bring your feet together again in the T position, the push off with the alternate foot and as you get better, you can extend the pushing leg further behind you at the end of each stroke.

In time, you’ll learn to skate backward, turning, swizzles, and more.  

8. Understand Synthetic Ice vs. Natural Ice.

If you’re skating on synthetic ice, it may feel a bit different versus natural ice.

It has been around longer than you think and has evolved over the years.

Synthetic ice has a slightly higher friction coefficient, meaning you can grip your edges slightly better to the surface while you learn to skate.

You can make all the same maneuvers that you can on natural while you learn to skate on synthetic.

Synthetic ice makes skating just as enjoying while making you a stronger, faster skater.

9. Recruit Some Help.

For your first skating experience, you should not do it alone.

Get some help with the basics.

Some rinks have staff available to give you some pointers or a private lesson that you may want to consider.

Even if you don’t have access to a coach or teacher, you can recruit a more experienced friend to skate with you for the first time. 

10. Have Fun!

Skating should be a fantastic experience....like taking your first steps!

Even if you fall a few times, there’s a rush you’ll feel from getting the hang of it that can’t be duplicated.

Remember, it's important to have fun learning and bring along some friends while you're at it!

If you like it, then look for a place where you can skate more often.

Perhaps you’ll soon branch off into other levels of skating (hockey, figure skating, etc.).

Taking Your Skating Hobby Home

If you want to skate at your heart’s content, synthetic ice panels are a great way to hone your skills.

When you’re ready to hit the ice next season, you’ll be a pro.

Our PolyGlide Ice panels can be purchased to your specifications.

You can outfit your basement, backyard, or spare room into your own mini-ice rink to practice.

These panels feel so close to the real thing that you’ll get stronger and faster, the more you hit the ice.

Conclusion

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and fun.

And what could be more fun than to learn to skate?

Ice skating is a great way to stay active during the winter months and have a blast at the same time.

Whether you're new to the sport or looking to improve your skills, it's a great experience to lace-up and actually know how to skate!

We’ll be the first to admit that ice skating takes some time to pick up.

Kids and adults alike will sometimes feel a bit intimidated.

But without a doubt, ice skating is one of the most fun activities you can try.

Hit your local rink this upcoming season or get your own synthetic ice panels to learn this fantastic new skill.

Now, grab your skates and get skating!!

 

 

 

When Olympic figure skaters gracefully glide across the ice and wow spectators with their fluid movements and extraordinary talent, you might wonder if learning to skate like them is possible.

So there’s good news and bad news.

The bad news is the odds of becoming an Olympian are 1 in 500,000.

You likely won’t be an Olympian skater, especially if you’re beginning past 18.

The good news is that it is possible to learn how to figure skate and more people are taking up the sport each year!

There are excellent programs available to help you understand the fundamentals of ice skating.

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Get a Head Start

Below are a couple of Items you may need to get started figure skating. 

• Figure Skates
• Synthetic Ice For the Home

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Start Your Incredible Journey To Figure Skating

Wherever you are, you can start your own personal skating journey, regardless of whether you’re a total beginner or have some prior experience on the ice.

To begin the figure skating adventure, you must learn the fundamentals of ice skating.

Then, as you improve and become more skilled at skating, different disciplines within figure skating open up to you.

We’ll cover some of the best tips for beginners to become competent at figure skating.

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What is Figure Skating?

Anyone at almost any age can learn figure skating with dedication and some great coaching.

It is not just for professionals.

Figure skating is a beautiful art form and a fantastic sport.

Ice skaters in figure skating display freestyle movements like jumps, spins, lifts, and graceful footwork in a mesmerizing dance on the ice.

The intricate patterns, or "figures," that skaters make on the ice—a crucial component of the sport until recently—are where the name of the activity comes from.

Figure skating has developed into many different disciplines over the years, including freestyle, pairs, ice dancing, and synchronized team skating, each with its own distinct competition style and particular moves and techniques for the skaters.

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Here’s What You Need to Figure Skate

You need the proper equipment before entering the ice, such as:

Ice Skates

Of course, a pair of ice skates is the most essential gear for figure skating.

These are smooth leather boots with a figure skating blade attached to the shoe's sole.

We’ve created some figure skating guides and the 10 Best Figure Skates Under $200, so you can get up to date on finding the best figure skates for you.

Choose snug skates without pinching or hurting them when selecting.

The right skates help you with control and reduce the risk of injuries.

Absolute beginners should also consider purchasing additional safety gear like helmets, knee, elbow, and wrist guards.

Clothing

Next up is suitable clothing. Figure skaters who compete often wear beautiful skating leotards or dresses with intricate designs.

The guys also wear beautiful, well-designed costumes too.

As a beginner learning how to figure skate, you won’t need amazing costumes just yet.

Instead, you’ll need warm yet comfortable gear such as leggings, close-fitting tracksuits, or even jeans and a sports top.

Warm gloves and a hat can also help when the rink gets too cold.

Ice

It seems obvious, but you’ll need access to ice!

You need regular access to a local ice rink or a coach that can take you to a rink.

I you like the idea of skating at home, you also have the option of creating your own home training studio using synthetic ice, 

 

Coach

You can learn independently but progress faster with a professional who can guide you in the basics.

Coaching is an investment, but it closes your timeline when you leverage someone else's expertise. S

tart with a group program, then move on to individual lessons.

 

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Preparing for the Ice

The first time you step onto the ice can be thrilling and nerve-racking.

Start with some off-ice warm-up exercises to get the body and mind ready.

Warming up helps reduce injuries and enhances performance before skating.

Stretch your arms, back, and leg muscles for a few minutes.

Try gentle yoga poses to increase your range of motion because flexibility is essential for figure skating.

Video Example: Off-Ice Stretching Routine for Figure Skaters (video)

Also, keep in mind that figure skating is a mental as well as a physical sport.

Imagine yourself gliding gracefully across the ice and feel the anticipation rising inside.

Understanding the Basics

It is time to enter the ice once you’re suited, booted, and mentally prepared.

Learning to stand and balance on skates is the first challenge.

This is entirely normal for beginners, so do not be concerned.

For stability:

• Use the side railing to get accustomed to being on the ice.
• Once you feel at ease skating, work on the necessary forward and backward glides.
• Keep your feet centered and your knees slightly bent.
• Use a skating aid, if available, to keep you balanced and upright.

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How to Figure Skate with Edges and Turns

Edges and turns are crucial for building confidence on the ice because.

They serve as the building blocks for more complex moves.

Your blades consist of an inside and outside edge.

Edges allow figure skaters to move in specific directions and perform specific figure skating moves.

Your coach will teach you how to move on your edges.

A beginner tip is learning how an inside and outside edge feels whenever you turn or stop.

Practicing the two-foot and Mohawk turns will also help to get a feel for shifting weight and changing directions.

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The Art of Stopping

Stopping is crucial for skaters and others around them to stay safe on the ice.

You’ll be using edges and momentum to help you come to a complete stop.

Over time, you’ll learn the Snowplow stop, then a one-foot stop.

Video Example: On-Ice Snowplow Stop for Figure Skaters

The T-stop (one foot) is a basic stopping technique in which the skates create a "T" shape.

Getting the hang of this stop gives you more control over speed.

Stopping while lifting one foot off the ice prepares you for more complex moves.

These stops are more challenging but effective techniques for abrupt and quick direction changes.

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Building Strength and Flexibility

You need more than just ice time to succeed in figure skating.

What you do off the ice is as important as what you do on it.

Ice skating is a full-body activity requiring both strength and flexibility.

Make sure to mix in at least one day of exercise.

Squats, lunges, and planks can strengthen the leg muscles and core.

Additionally, regular stretching routines can improve flexibility.

Yoga enhances balance, coordination, flexibility, and overall body awareness, making it a great complement to figure skating.

These off-ice exercises can significantly improve performance when incorporated into a routine.

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Basic Jumps and Spins

Figure skating is so captivating to watch because of the jumping and spinning.

Even though it takes some time to perfect these moves, the payoff is enormous.

Thep waltz jump is the first one you’ll learn, as well as the takeoff and landing principles.

The best tip is to take your time and break each move down step by step.

You’ll need to wear a pad to protect your butt and thighs, as you’ll spend some time falling.

Video Example: Waltz Jump for Figure Skaters

On the other hand, spins call for concentration and stability.

Start with two-foot spins and work up to one foot as you become more stable.

Smooth rotations depend on perfecting the takeoff and landing positions, so practice these off the ice.

Video Example: 2-Foot Spin for Figure Skaters

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Embrace Your Coach’s Feedback

Working with a qualified coach is invaluable, even though learning to figure skate independently can be enjoyable.

A coach offers individualized feedback and direction to help people advance quickly and avoid picking up bad habits.

It can sometimes be frustrating learning the same moves repeatedly.

Figure skating coaches can also be tough but fair.

Look for a figure skating coach who shares a passion for the sport and helping people.

They can also create a plan based on your goals, age, and skill level.

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Overcoming Challenges

Figure skating has its challenges, just like any other sport.

The most prevalent barrier is anxiety and fear.

It is normal to experience anxiety, especially when attempting novel movements.

The secret is to acknowledge the emotions and keep learning despite them.

Remember that acting despite fear is what defines courage.

In the journey of figure skating, handling setbacks and frustrations is also crucial.

While learning new jumps or spins, one may stumble countless times, but each misstep provides an opportunity to grow.

Continue to be persistent and get past any challenges they encounter.

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Practicing with Purpose

It can take several years to become proficient in figure skating.

On-ice and off-ice practice sessions should be planned with clear objectives so you don’t waste time.

Concentrate on mastering just one or two skills at a time, while simultaneously keeping track of your development.

Remember, exercise will strengthen muscles and reinforce memory because consistency is key.

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Staying Safe on the Ice

Although figure skating is a beautiful sport, everyone's safety should come first.

Before you step onto the ice, familiarize yourself with the skating rink's policies and protocol.

Keep an eye out for other skaters and avoid reckless behavior.

Sprains, strains, and bruises are typical skating injuries.

Always warm up before skating and practice safe falling techniques to reduce the risk of injuries.

In figure skating, falling will inevitably happen, but knowing how to fall and get up safely can reduce the risk of serious injuries.

Final Spin

Are you ready to set out on a fantastic quest for mastery of figure skating?

Knowing how to figure skate is not just about learning to glide on ice.

It is also about appreciating artistic beauty, expressing oneself through movement, and gracefully overcoming obstacles.

Also, It's a great sport for anyone to learn no matter what age!

Enjoy every second on the ice and never forget that figure skating is an art form that enables people to tell their stories through grace.

If you found this article insightful, you may want to check out Off-Ice Figure Skating training right here to learn more!

 

 

As the sport of ice hockey continues to grow in popularity, more and more goaltenders are looking for ways to improve their skills and take their game to the next level.

In order to do this, they need to create the ideal off-ice training program while away from the rink that includes access to a high grade synthetic ice surface.

PolyGlide Ice offers a Pro-Glide infused surface that is simply the best synthetic ice for goalies on the market in that it checks all the boxes for training elite goaltenders.

The Pro-Glide surface is made of a high-quality polymer that provide a realistic skating experience and lateral glide which is a concern for many goaltenders.

This enables goalies able to improve their skating technique, reflexes, and puck handling skills without ever leaving your home.   

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CREATE YOUR OWN "GOALIE BOX" RINK PACKAGE AND WORK ON YOUR SAVES ALL-YEAR LONG! 

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Lateral Slide

Probably one of the most common questions goaltenders ask us when inquiring about our synthetic ice surface is, "How is the lateral glide from post-to-post?

The great thing about our Pro-Glide infused surface is that the surface friction is greatly reduced by the slip agent additive we infused to each sheet during the manufacturing process.

There are many synthetic ice products available in todays market that offer minimal glide with very small amounts of slip agent additive in the surface.

In fact some manufacturers use a topical spray additive during the curing process and don't add any slip agent at all throughout the panel that winds up offering minimal results.

To get the lateral glide you need we completely infuse each Pro-Glide panel with our proven slip agent that helps maintain the glide throughout both sides of the panel for many years after purchase.

We've be able to create the ideal panel for goalie training both through in house R&D and direct feedback from goaltenders and trainers alike.

We've included a few training elements here for you to review to help with your training and be the standout goalie every time you hit the ice!

Training Elements for Elite Goalies

There are many different skills both physical and mental that goaltenders need to work on in order to be successful throughout their career.

These include staying calm under pressure, making good decisions, playing with poise, having a strong rebound control, and being able to make saves consistently.

If you are looking to improve your skills as an ice hockey goaltender, these are some of the areas you need to focus on!

Take a minute to review each of these five elements::

Mental Toughness - Staying Calm Under Pressure

There are many situations in life when we feel pressure to succeed.

This pressure can be especially intense when it comes to our careers, hobbies and especially athletes but for goaltenders, the pressure to win can be overwhelming at times.

It is essential for them to find a way to stay calm under pressure and perform at their best game in and game out all season long....which can sometimes seem quite grueling.

When the game is on the line and the pressure is mounting, it's important to be able to stay calm and make smart decisions and build the "Mental Toughness" that's required for this position.

This can be difficult to do, but it is something that all goalies need to work on if they want to be successful at the position and bounce back quickly when things don't go their way.

One of the most important yet simplest things for any goaltender to do when feeling pressure is to focus on their breathing.

By taking deep, slow breaths you can help lower your heart rate and calm your nerves and reflexes which is critical.

It is also important to focus on positive self-talk built within your mental toughness and include it in your daily training "bag of tricks" that you can turn to throughout the season.

This means telling yourself that you can handle the pressure and that you will achieve your ultimate goal of succeeding regardless of the circumstances.

Visualization is another helpful technique that involves picturing yourself succeeding in the event or competition as by visualizing success, you are more likely to achieve it.

There are many other techniques that can help a goaltender stay calm under pressure and you should experiment with them all to find what works best for you.

Remember, it is crucial to stay calm under pressure if you want to perform at your highest level and achieve success.

Making Good Decisions

How do goaltenders make good decisions during a game and perform at their highest level?

This is an interesting question that has been studied by researchers for many years.

Some people believe that the best goaltenders are born with the ability to make good decisions under pressure, while others believe that it is a skill that can be learned.

You need to be able to read the play as it develops and make quick decisions when handling the puck in order to give your team a chance to win.

This can be difficult, but it is something that you need to work on if you want to round out your overall game and become a standout at the position.

Some of the best goaltenders are excellent at being "verbal quarterbacks" behind the defense while under attack in their zone.

They also have to be able to anticipate what the attacking team may do next with the puck and react accordingly.

Making all of these calculations quickly and accurately is not an easy task and for some goaltenders it comes easily as they stay mentally focused on the game not matter what the score.

Having self-control is the ability to avoid bad habits and stay focused on what is important and to filter out distractions and focus on the task at hand.

Goaltenders who want to perform at their highest level should focus on training their working memory and self-control.

By doing so, they will be better equipped to make quick decisions under pressure and stay focused on the task at hand.

 

Playing With Poise

Playing with poise is essential for any goaltending that wants to succeed in the game of ice hockey and play at the Elite or higher level.

This means not losing your head when things don't go your way regardless of the scoreboard.

When goalies are able to play with poise, they often look more confident and perform better when the game is on the line, keeping their composure and making the big save when it matters most.

It can be easy to get caught up in the moment and make mistakes when the pressure is on, but if a goalie can keep their composure, they increase their odds of getting the win!

It takes practice, but it's something that all goaltenders can learn to do and build on with each practice and opportunity they get to play....make it matter!

Controlling Your Rebounds

There are few positions in sports that are as important as the ice hockey goalie as they are responsible for keeping the puck out of the net, and often face a barrage of shots from the opposing team.

One of the key ways for goalies to limit scoring chances is by controlling the rebounds in front of the net and having strong rebound control which will ultimately limit scoring chances.

You need to be able to limit the number of rebounds that your opponent's get in order to give your team a chance to win and is something that must constantly be worked on.

When the puck hits the goaltender, it can often bounce off in any direction and if they're not able to control where the puck goes, it could end up right in front of the net, giving the opposing team an easy scoring chance.

To prevent this from happening, goalies must be aware of where they are directing the puck when they make a save and have the awareness to try to direct the puck to an area where there are no opponents, such as behind the net or into the corner.

In addition to controlling rebounds, goalies must also be quick and agile to prevent their opponents from getting close to the net.

Often there are times, an opponent will try to take a shot while the goalie is still recovering from making a save.

To prevent this from happening, goalies must be quick on their feet and able to get back into position quickly.

They must also have good communication with their defensemen, as they will often be the ones who are able to help keep the opponents away from the net.

Goalies who are able to control the rebounds and keep their opponents away from the net are often successful at preventing goals.

By following these tips, goalies can improve their chances of having a successful game.

 

Make Saves Consistently

In order to be a successful ice hockey goalie, you need to be able to make saves consistently during a game which can be difficult if you don't have the proper techniques and strategies.

It's important that you make saves more often using some helpful resources that can further improve your skills as a goalie. 

Making saves consistently is key  for goaltenders so you can make the big save when your team needs it most!

One important tip that can help you make more saves is to focus on the puck as this will help you anticipate where it's going and come up with the save

It can be easy to get distracted by other players on the ice or the crowd noise, but if you want to be successful, you need to keep your eyes on the puck at all times.

Practice making your saves as much as possible as the more you practice, the better you'll become at making them in game situations. Having a home rink outfitted with the best synthetic ice for goalies affords you the extra ice time to work on those saves!

If you follow these tips, you'll be well on your way to making more saves during games.

Conclusion

There's a lot to consider when looking to take your goaltending skills to the next level and having your own home ice rink definitely helps give you an edge on the competition.

Synthetic ice is becoming increasingly popular among elite goaltenders to work on all the elements and skills required to get your stats where they need to be.

Obviously it's up to you to put in the effort but if you're a dedicated player that is ready to put in the work why not offer yourselves the tools you need unlimited ice time!

If you're looking to take your game to the next level, consider checking out the best synthetic ice for goalies, the PolyGlide Ice Pro-Glide Infused surface.....You won't be disappointed!

Are you throwing a party or event?

Then you are probably thinking about keeping guests entertained and engaged.

Or maybe you’re thinking about hosting a corporate retreat with a bit of a twist. 

Then it hits you...

A party on the ice!

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Make Your Special Event One To Remember With The PolyGlide Pro-Glide Synthetic Ice Panel 

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Ice skating parties and events are in high demand as people are looking for new niche hobbies and ‘cool’ personalized events to fill their social media feeds. 

A party on the ice may be just what you need.

Where should I start looking?

If you want to proceed, you will have a few options:

• Find a location with an ice rink and rent out the entire place for the event.
• Buy and install a temporary rink or synthetic ice rink yourself.
• Get the best party rental ice rink company you can find.

First, finding a location available at your date and time can be difficult. Your guests will also have to travel to the location, which can be inconvenient. 

Buying a temporary rink or synthetic ice rink can be expensive if you have access to a location or own large space.

While it will last for years, will you use it enough to get the best return on your investment?

By far, the best option is a party rental ice rink.

Yes, you can have a team install a rink for the day like you would rent tents, tables, and chairs.

When the event is over, they come in and break it down. 

The client gets what they need (an event on ice) without the overhead and maintenance of owning a skating rink. 

There are different rink options available.

Let’s look at the uses of ice rinks for some inspiration, the best party rental ice rink, and which material you should choose.

What are some events that you can use for party rental ice rinks?

Ice skating is not going anywhere.

There are millions of skaters in the United States and hundreds of ice rinks.

During wintertime, we see spikes in ice skaters, so interest in ice skating continues to rise.

People are interested in skating or learning to skate, so if you’re renting a rink, here are some event ideas:

• Birthday parties for kids, teens, and adults
• Corporate event or corporate retreat
• Launch parties
• State or local fairs/Carnivals
• Christmas or Winter events
• Fundraisers
• Ice skating competitions (like curling)
• Niche exercise programs

With an ice rink, the possibilities are endless.

However, owning an ice rink is expensive.

Renting for events gives you all the benefits with no overhead.

Here are the best types of ice rinks you can rent for your upcoming event.

1. Refrigerated Ice Skating Rink

Refrigerated rinks are some of the more popular options available.

These rinks combine water, a unique coolant, and a refrigerating system (like your refrigerator or freezer at home) to provide continuous frozen ice for the rink. 

These rinks are in buildings and facilities, supporting some of your favorite NHL teams and figure skaters.

Rink rentals were typical for large-scale ice rinks like The Rockefeller Center.

These rentals stayed in place for months and were complex to set up.

Now, compact cooling systems allow anyone to rent a rink of varying sizes and for different needs. 

Pros: 

• Get the look and feel of natural ice for your event.
• Rink setup is handled by professionals. Enjoy a hassle-free installation.
• Can set up indoors or outdoors
• A refrigeration system means it’s usable most months of the year.

Cons:

• Rink rental and setup are expensive.
• Everyone has to dress warmly
• Skates are mandatory. Walking on the rink without them is unsafe.
• You will need approvals or permits from buildings, landlords, etc.
• Possible damage to area during setup

Refrigerated rinks are great for parties if you want that Winter Wonderland feel. However, you have to account for costs, maintenance, and permits.

2. Natural Ice Rink Kit

Natural ice rinks involve filling a space with water than using cold outdoor temperatures to keep the rink frozen.

This is the chosen method for backyard rinks around the world.

Now, you can rent the supplies necessary to create the rink. 

The rink installation must be outdoors on a flat surface.

The rink team will install the rink walls and a plastic liner.

The liner is then filled evenly with water and left to freeze.

Once frozen, the surface is then misted with hot water and prepared for ice skating. 

Pros: 

• Renting a natural ice rink is the cheapest option. You’re renting the materials and labor
• The outdoor rink can last for months for just one base cost.
• Enjoy the feeling of skating on natural ice.
• You can create larger rinks without any significant adjustments to cost.

Cons

• Only available for outdoor use.
• It depends on the weather to freeze the ice. Setup can take more than one day.
• The renter handles the water costs.
• How will your event fare in cold, outdoor temperatures?

If you have ample outdoor space, going natural can work.

It’s cheaper than refrigeration but does require near-freezing temperatures. 

3. Portable Synthetic Ice Skating Rink

What if you can get the benefits of refrigerated rinks at a fraction of the effort and cost?

Then synthetic ice rinks are the answer.

Synthetic ice rinks are made of durable, High-Density Polyethylene. Each panel has unique edges that connect to form a large skating surface.

You can use your ice skates on this synthetic ice as the surface has a special infused agent to help the skates glide across. 

Pros:

• Quick setup
• Indoor and outdoor use
• Get the same feel as refrigerated rinks/natural rinks at a lower price.
• It can easily convert into a sock rink for kids
• Needs minor maintenance

Cons

• Synthetic ice has more friction than natural ice. Seasoned skaters know the difference.
• Larger rinks are more expensive to rent.
• Older skates will need to sharpen, so you should have sharpening services or tell the guests in advance.

Synthetic ice is growing in popularity for home, rental, and commercial use.

There is some degree of friction, however, the ease of installation without damaging your surfaces makes up for it. 

Which should you choose?

People with enough space (indoors or outdoors) and a big enough budget go for refrigerated rinks.

For rinks on a budget, natural ice can work, but there are too many factors that impact its success.

Synthetic ice is an excellent balance of high-quality ice, ease of installation, and cost.

However, rental prices depend on the size of the rink.

The event should have the look and feel of an ice arena.

With synthetic ice, you can assign more of your budget to the ambiance. 

Conclusion

Having a party on ice should not be a hassle.

You want a simple, easy way to get your ice rink set up so you can focus on planning your party.

A synthetic ice rink gives you all the capabilities of a refrigerated rink with much less effort.

In a few hours, the rink and walls will be set up, ready to go.

Synthetic ice rinks are also cheaper to install, won’t damage your floors, and you can walk across them if needed. 

If you’re ready to party, our PolyGlide Pro-Glide Synthetic Panels may be what you need!

Contact us for your installation needs.

We can help you design, set up, and do short-term or long-term rentals.

The best party rental ice rink option to consider is PolyGlide Synthetic Ice!

 

 Parties were once a simple affair.

All you needed was good food, good music, and a great atmosphere.

Today, people looking for exciting and innovative experiences.  

More and more event planners and part businesses are seeking to meet the demand, especially inflatable party rental businesses.

If you own an inflatable party rental business, you probably have all the bounce houses, slides, and other fun inflatables in your arsenal. 

However, to truly stand out and meet the ever-growing expectations of customers, adding synthetic ice to your inflatable party rental business can offer several distinct advantages.

It's a way to truly serve your clients and capitalize on the millions of ice skaters looking to have fun during the Holidays. 

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ENJOY THE LEAST AMOUNT OF SKATE BLADE FRICTION WITH POLYGLIDE SYNTHETIC ICE

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Synthetic Ice as a Unique Attraction

For the uninitiated, synthetic ice are special panels that connect to form a skatable ice rink.

Each panel is made of durable polyethylene combined with other patented materials to give a smooth finish that's functional and durable for ice skate blades.

You simply measure the size of your space, purchase the necessary panels and connect them to form the rink.

Each panel has edges that allow them to connect to the other like a puzzle piece.

From there, you add rink walls and other safety accessories to complete an "ice rink" that does not need water, refrigeration, or cold temperatures to operate. 

Offering synthetic ice as part of your rental business can set you apart from your competitors.

Commercial spaces like malls, hotels, and play houses often rent synthetic ice rinks for the Holdiays to attract customers. 

For a business centered around events and entertainment, buying a synthetic ice rink outright to rent to others can be a long-term, lucrative venture. 

While bounce houses are popular choices for party rentals, adding synthetic ice can provide a unique and exciting attraction that is sure to draw in a new niche of customers. 

Making Your Inflatable Party Rental Trendy

With an inflatable party rental business, you have the opportunity to provide fun and entertainment for various events and occasions.

It also allows you to stay ahead of the competition by constantly adding new and exciting attractions to your inventory.

With a rental business, you can also capitalize on current trends and make your offerings more appealing to customers.

Moreover, you can customize your offers with different themes or characters and more.

One way to surely boost your inflatable party rental business and make it trendy is by adding synthetic ice to your inventory.

Here are five reasons why adding synthetic ice to your inflatable party rental business can be advantageous:

Reason #1: Year-round entertainment

Regardless of the weather and season, synthetic ice can surely be enjoyed by your customers and their guests year-round.

A hot summer day or a cold winter night won't stop the fun on synthetic ice.

It may also be set up either indoors or outdoors, offering flexibility and expanding your potential customer base.

In the colder months, you're less likely to get rentals for inflatable houses or slides, especially outdoors.

Synthetic ice allows your party rental business to provide entertainment during a time where spending is higher. 

Reason #2: Diversification of services

For businesses to grow and thrive, there are only three options:

1. Raise your prices.
2. Increase the frequency which customers buy.
3. Provide different services.

Offering synthetic ice as part of your inflatable party rental business adds a new dimension to your offerings.

It allows you to diversify your services and cater to a wider range of events and occasions.

From holiday parties and winter festivals to corporate team-building events and birthday celebrations, synthetic ice can be a versatile addition that appeals to various customer needs.

You'll continue to add to your bottom line as the product can last 10+ years from one investment. 

Reason #3: Unique party experiences? Yes, please!

Adding synthetic ice to your inflatable party rental business can provide customers with a unique and unforgettable party experience.

You can pitch ice skating birthday parties, corporate events, product launches, and much more. 

Guests will have the opportunity to skate and glide on a surface that feels like real ice, creating a fun and exciting atmosphere.

Not only will this delight children and adults alike, but it will also create lasting memories for everyone involved.

Reason #4: Rental business sustainability

Aside from the immediate benefits of attracting customers and diversifying your services, adding synthetic ice to your inflatable party rental business can contribute to its long-term sustainability.

The party rental business is competitive, with multiple options available in your city.

How can you stand out?

By offering a unique attraction like synthetic ice, you are establishing your business as innovative and adaptable to changing customer preferences.

This can help ensure that your rental business remains relevant and in demand for years to come.

Reason #5: An excellent marketing tool

Incorporating synthetic ice into your inflatable party rental business can serve as an excellent marketing tool.

By promoting your new synthetic ice offering through social media, online advertisements, and word-of-mouth, you can generate buzz and attract potential customers who are seeking a unique and exciting party experience.

Adding influencers, holding ice skating events, and attending sales expos are just some of the ways you can leverage your new rink to bring in more clients. 

Furthermore, promoting the use of synthetic ice as an alternative to traditional ice for winter sports and activities can also be a valuable marketing strategy.

It highlights your business as forward-thinking and environmentally conscious, which can resonate with customers who prioritize sustainability.

 

Choosing the Right Synthetic Ice

Synthetic ice is an investment that can greatly benefit your inflatable party rental business.

Yet, it is crucial to choose a high-quality and durable synthetic ice product that will withstand heavy use and provide a realistic ice skating experience for your customers.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right synthetic ice for your rental business:

#1: Product Durability and Longevity

One of your primary considerations when choosing the right synthetic ice for your rental business should be its durability and longevity.

Remember that you would be offering the synthetic ice for rental purposes, which means it will be subject to frequent and heavy use.

Therefore, you should carefully choose a synthetic ice product that is built to withstand wear and tear, ensuring that it will last for a long time without losing its quality or functionality.

Additionally, selecting a synthetic ice product with a long lifespan will help maximize your return on investment and minimize the need for frequent replacements or repairs.

This will contribute to the sustainability of your business and reduce long-term costs.

#2: Installation and Maintenance Requirements

Another important factor to consider when choosing the right synthetic ice for your rental business is the installation and maintenance requirements.

You want to select a synthetic ice product that is relatively easy to install and maintain, as this will save you time, effort, and money in the long run.

It's best to choose a synthetic ice product that does not require extensive and complicated installation processes or special equipment.

This will allow you to quickly set up and dismantle the synthetic ice rink for each rental, making your business more efficient and profitable.

Maintenance should also be minimal, with simple cleaning and upkeep procedures that can easily be incorporated into your regular operations.

#3: A Realistic Skating Experience

In order to provide an enjoyable experience for your customers, it is important to choose a synthetic ice product that offers a realistic skating experience.

To achieve this, consider selecting a synthetic ice product that has been specifically designed and engineered to replicate the characteristics of traditional ice skating.

This includes factors such as the glide and feel of the synthetic ice surface, which should closely mimic that of real ice.

Additionally, the durability of the edges and the ability to support various skating maneuvers, such as turns and stops, are critical for creating an authentic and immersive skating experience.

Furthermore, the synthetic ice should have a high-quality interlocking system that ensures a seamless and secure connection between the panels, preventing any shifting or separation during use.

 

PolyGlide Ice Pro-Glide Infused Panel Is Perfect For Your Business

The good news is you don't have to search far and wide to find a synthetic ice product that meets all of these criteria.

The PolyGlide Ice Pro-Glide Infused Panel is the ideal choice for your rental business. This synthetic ice product offers several key advantages that make it perfect for your business.

Firstly, the PolyGlide Ice Pro-Glide Infused Panel is designed with ease of installation and maintenance in mind.

It features a straightforward installation process that does not require any special equipment or complicated procedures.

This allows you to quickly and efficiently set up and dismantle the synthetic ice rink for each rental, saving you valuable time and effort.

Additionally, the PolyGlide Ice Pro-Glide Infused Panel requires minimal maintenance.

Using the PolyGlide Ice Pro-Glide Infused Panel for your business will also ensure that you can provide a realistic and enjoyable skating experience for your customers, as it closely replicates the feel and glide of real ice.

Other Elements You Can Add

As you aim to provide a unique and fun experience to your customers and their partygoers, you need to provide a complete set-up that includes additional elements beyond just the synthetic ice rink itself.

Re recommend investing in other elements, such as  rental skates of different sizes, protective gear and helmets.

To help beginners, you may also consider offering skating aids, such as walkers, which can help provide stability and support for those new to skating, minimizing liability and the risk of injury.

Additionally, to enhance the overall atmosphere, you can consider adding decorative elements like lighting, music, and seating areas for spectators.

By creating a comprehensive and inviting environment, you can ensure that your business stands out and provides an exceptional skating experience for all customers.

Conclusion

Your rental business can make any event truly unforgettable by offering synthetic ice skating.

Including synthetic ice in your product offerings can help your business attract more customers and stand out in the competitive market.

Not only will your customers have the opportunity to enjoy a unique and exciting activity, but they will also be able to experience the thrill of skating on a surface that closely resembles real ice.

This can be a major draw for individuals and groups looking to host special events, such as birthday parties, corporate team-building activities, or even holiday gatherings.

By providing the option for synthetic ice skating at these events, you can create a memorable and captivating atmosphere that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Lastly, using Poly-Gldie Ice Pro-Glide infused panels ensures that your customers will have a smooth and realistic skating experience, further adding to the enjoyment and success of any event.