Equipment Checklist - Pre-School

To ensure our youngest skaters stay safe, warm, and comfortable on the ice, please follow these equipment guidelines for the Pre-School Learn to Skate program.

Mandatory Helmet Policy

Safety is our top priority. All pre-school skaters must wear a proper helmet with full facial protection at all times while on the ice.

• Mandatory Requirement: A CSA-approved hockey helmet with a full face cage or shield is required for all pre-school skaters.
• Prohibited Styles: Cycling helmets, ski helmets, or hockey helmets without a cage are not permitted in this program.
• Fit: The helmet must fit snugly, sit low enough to cover the forehead, and have both the chin strap and cage straps securely fastened.

Skate Recommendations

Pre-school skaters may wear either hockey skates or figure skates for this program.

• Hockey Skates (Highly Recommended): We strongly recommend hockey skates for pre-school beginners. Hockey skates encourage children to learn proper skating technique from day one by pushing to the side to stride, rather than relying on a toe pick for balance.
• Figure Skates: Figure skates may be worn if preferred by the skater or family.
• What to Avoid: We strongly discourage skates with plastic shells, buckles, or Velcro (including soft-boot or plastic models from Softec, K2, etc.), as they lack the ankle support and blade structure necessary to learn proper technique. Double bladed "bob skates" are not permitted.
• Fit & Sizing: Skates should fit snugly with one pair of thin-to-medium socks. Do not purchase skates multiple sizes too large for "room to grow," as loose boots lead to weak ankles and painful blisters.

Clothing & Accessories

Young skaters spend time on the ice and may fall or sit down frequently while building balance. Proper outer gear keeps them warm, dry, and happy:

• Waterproof Outerwear: Waterproof snowsuits, snow pants, or splash pants are strongly recommended to prevent clothes from getting cold and wet.
• Waterproof Handwear: Waterproof snow mitts or gloves are mandatory. Regular knit gloves absorb water quickly, leading to cold hands.
• Layering: Dress your child in warm, flexible layers underneath their outerwear so they can move freely.
• Hair: Long hair must be tied back securely so it stays out of the eyes and does not interfere with the helmet cage.

Skate Care & Maintenance

• Sharpening: Ensure new or used skates are sharpened before the first session. Properly sharpened blades provide better grip and stability.
• Guard Use: Always use hard plastic guards when walking off the ice (such as in hallways or on concrete).
• Drying: Wipe blades completely dry with a towel after every session and store them in soft cloth soakers to prevent rust.