Frequently Asked Questions About Balance Blades
Frequently Asked Questions About Balance Blades
Parent Questions (Learn to Skate and Beginner Skates)
Are Balance Blades good for beginners?
Yes. Balance Blades are designed specifically for beginner skaters. They help prevent rear falls and help children stand, stay balanced, and get moving while learning the basics of skating.
Do Balance Blades help prevent falls?
Balance Blades are designed to help reduce backward falls by adding extra stability at the rear of the blade. This helps beginners feel more secure as they learn to balance on the ice.
What age can kids start skating with Balance Blades?
Most children can start using Balance Blades between ages 2 and 4, depending on their size and comfort on the ice. They are commonly used in parent and tot and early Learn to Skate programs.
Are Balance Blades a real skate blade?
Yes. Balance Blades are a real single skate blade designed with built in assist zones for beginners. When balanced, the blade behaves like a traditional skate. The assist areas engage only when needed and gradually reduce over time, allowing the skate to evolve naturally with your child.
How do Balance Blades evolve into regular skates?
As your child improves, Balance Blades naturally evolve through normal sharpening. The front and rear assist areas gradually reduce over time, leaving a traditional skate blade in the same boot. There is no relearning or switching to a different skate. Your child is skating from day one. The skate simply evolves as their skills grow.
Do children need to relearn skating after Balance Blades?
No. Balance Blades use the same stride and mechanics as a traditional skate. The assist areas simply reduce over time through sharpening. Children are skating normally from the start, so there is no relearning period.
Are Balance Blades allowed in Learn to Skate programs?
Yes. Balance Blades are commonly used in Learn to Skate, CanSkate, and Snowplow Sam programs, as well as public skating sessions. Check with your local program if you have questions.
Do Balance Blades replace regular skates?
Balance Blades are designed for the early learning stage of skating. They help children build balance and confidence first. As skills improve, the skate evolves toward a traditional blade in the same boot. Many families later move into performance hockey or figure skates once their child is fully confident.
Can my child wear Balance Blades for hockey?
Yes. Balance Blades work for both recreational skating and early hockey programs. Hockey style beginner options are available in youth sizes.
Product and Purchasing Questions
Do the skates come pre sharpened?
Yes. Balance Blades come pre sharpened and ready to use. Sharpening instructions are available on the website and in the packaging.
Do the skates fit true to size like figure or hockey skates?
Balance Blades use a plastic molded boot that fits differently than leather or stitched skate boots. They are adjustable in sizes 8 to 11 and 12 to 2 and designed to grow with your child. Please review sizing carefully before purchasing.
When should I start evolution sharpening?
Begin evolution sharpening when your child is confidently skating without assistance. Gradually sharpen the assist areas in stages as skills improve.
How do I adjust the skate sizing?
Push the button on the side of the boot and pull out the toe to adjust the size.
How do I buckle the top strap?
Press the buttons on each side to slide the strap in and out for a secure fit.
How are Balance Blades different from other skates?
Balance Blades are designed specifically for beginners and feature:
Rear assist zones that help reduce backward falls
Front assist zones that support standing and early movement
A flatter middle section for improved balance
Evolution sharpening that gradually reduces assist as skills progress
What stores sell Balance Blades?
Balance Blades are available through selected retailers and online. Please check our website for current purchasing options.
Do you provide replacement parts or accept returns?
Replacement parts are not available. Returns are only accepted for defective products. Policies may vary by retailer. Please refer to the applicable return policy.
What are the shipping options and costs?
Orders ship from Canada to Canadian and US destinations. Shipping rates and delivery times are shown at checkout. Some regions may be excluded.
Do you offer discounts for bulk orders?
For large quantity or program orders, please contact us directly at customerservice@balanceblades.com.