Women’s Hockey Skates 2025
Last week one of my hockey buddies asked me an interesting question…
“Does anyone make women’s hockey skates? Or do women players wear men’s hockey skates?”
I really wasn’t sure, so I reached out to some female friends of mine, who play hockey, to get some answers.
Are There Women’s Hockey Skates Lines?
No. Not really.
My non-scientific research turned up some interesting answers.
Major hockey skate brands like CCM, Bauer, Graf, and True don’t have a specific “women’s” hockey skate line.
Instead, some offer skates in a ‘fit profile’ that is more suitable for female hockey players. This profile is based on the anatomical differences between male and female feet.
The key difference is in the sizing.
The general rule for women players is to subtract 3 from their regular women’s shoe size in order to find their proper hockey skate size.
For example, if a player wears a size 9 women’s shoe, that is about equivalent to a men’s size 7, which would mean that a size 6 senior hockey skate would be the right size fit for women.
The Importance Of Sizing
It is vital for women to find the best-fitting hockey skates to provide the best performance, comfort, and safety while on the ice.
If a skate is the wrong size and uncomfortable, it may lead to foot and ankle problems, blisters, and other more serious issues.
It can also damage the boot structure leading to a worse fit which will only make the problems worse.
To avoid these problems and get the ideal fit, I have included a section on sizing tips to help women make the right choice in skates.
Image credit: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Women’s Hockey Skate Fitting Tips:
1. General Guideline: As mentioned above, subtract 3 from your regular women’s shoe size in order to find your proper hockey skate size. If you are making an in-store purchase you can and should try on your skates first. If you’re buying online, reference the manufacturer’s size chart and guidelines that are frequently posted on hockey websites.
2. Types of Fit:
Hockey skates come in different fit profiles: narrow (low-volume), standard (medium-volume), and wide (high-volume).
- Narrow fit: This is best for players with slender feet
- Standard fit: Suits the majority of foot types
- Wide fit: Ideal for players with a wider forefoot or a higher instep
3. Fit Assessment:
- Heel: Your heel should fit snugly against the back of the skate without any significant movement
- Forefoot: The widest part of your foot should align with the widest part of the skate. Make sure there isn’t too much or too little space on the sides of the skate
- Toe: Your toes should lightly touch the front of the skate when standing, but they shouldn’t be cramped or tight
4. Lacing: Hockey skates should be laced firmly from the toe up, ensuring there are no loose sections. The top 3-4 eyelets can be tied tighter or looser to adjust for comfort and performance based on your personal preference.
5. Ankle Support: Your ankles should remain straight, without significant inward or outward leaning. If your ankles lean, it can be due to either a poor fit or weak ankle muscles. Weak ankle muscles can be strengthened with the right exercise.
6. Flex: Skates come in varying degrees of stiffness. Professionals often opt for stiffer skates for better energy transfer, while recreational players usually choose something softer for comfort. Consider your level of play, weight, and personal preference when choosing the skate flex.
7. Insoles and Footbeds: Many skates come with standard footbeds, but consider upgrading to performance or orthotic insoles for better comfort and foot alignment.
8. Heat Molding: Many modern skates are heat moldable, allowing for a custom fit to your foot shape. Follow manufacturer guidelines or consult with a pro shop for heat molding services.
9. Break-in Period: New skates can be uncomfortable initially. It takes a few ice sessions for the skates to mold to your feet naturally. Wear them frequently for quicker break-ins. It’s not unusual to get blisters during this period.
10. Maintenance: Dry your skates after every session to prevent the buildup of bacteria and prolong their lifespan. Regularly check for signs of wear and tear. Damaged skates can impact performance and safety.
Best Women’s Hockey Skates
