I have been on the ice more times than I can count, and I have watched countless friends buckle into their first pair of skates. The truth is simple: the best ice skates for beginners are not the cheapest ones on the shelf, and they are not the most expensive boots in the pro shop either. They are skates that fit well, support the ankle, and feel comfortable enough to keep you coming back for another session.
Our team spent six weeks testing, researching, and comparing beginner ice skates across figure, hockey, and recreational styles for both adults and kids. We checked fit, ankle support, blade quality, comfort, and how each pair held up after repeated use. This guide covers the top 10 beginner ice skates for 2026, including budget friendly picks, adjustable skates for growing kids, and the trusted Jackson, Riedell, and Lake Placid models that skating coaches actually recommend.
If you are starting figure skating lessons, signing up for a Learn to Skate class, or just want comfortable ice skates for the public session, this guide will help you skip the guesswork. We also built a buying guide, fit tips, and an FAQ at the end so you can pick the right pair on the first try.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Ice Skates for Beginners (September 2026)
American Athletic Tricot Lined Ice Skates
- Reinforced ankle support
- Tricot padded lining
- Stainless steel blade
- Beginner toe pick
Jackson Figure Ice Skates JS180
- Medium support soft boot
- Ultima Mark I blade
- Reinforced vinyl upper
- Warm inner lining
Jackson Classic 200 Figure Skates
- Padded Nylex lining
- Mark I stainless blade
- Reinforced vinyl uppers
- Padded felt tongue
Best Ice Skates for Beginners in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| American Athletic Tricot Lined Ice Skates |
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| Jackson Classic 200 Figure Skates |
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 Lake Placid Summit Adjustable Youth Ice Skates |
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| Jackson Figure Ice Skates JS180 |
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 Jackson Ultima Excel Figure Skate |
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 Lake Placid Boys Nitro 8.8 Adjustable Ice Skates |
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 Xino Sports Adjustable Ice Skates |
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 5th Element Stealth Mens Recreational Hockey Skates |
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 Riedell Soar Recreational Ice Skates |
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 Lake Placid Cascade Womens Figure Ice Skate |
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1. American Athletic Tricot Lined Ice Skates for Women – Comfortable Beginner Pick with Ankle Support
American Athletic Tricot Lined Ice Skates for Women – Recreational Figure Skates with Ankle Support, Padded Lining, Stainless Steel Blades – Suitable for Indoor & Outdoor Ice Skating (White, 6)
Stainless steel 3.5mm blade
Tricot foam padded liner
Reinforced ankle support
PVC beginner boot
Pros
- Built specifically for beginner and entry level skaters
- Reinforced ankle construction provides stability while allowing flexibility
- Comfortable tricot liner with extra foam padding reduces break in pain
- Beginner friendly toe pick for proper edge work
- Trusted American Athletic heritage since 1959
Cons
- Laces can run long and tongue feels flimsy
- No padding at tongue may cause blisters without thick socks
- Not suitable for competitive skating or advanced jumps
The American Athletic Tricot Lined Ice Skates earned our top spot because they have the highest review count of any beginner figure skate in our lineup, with more than 2,700 reviews and a 4.4 star average. When I laced these up for the first time, the reinforced ankle immediately gave my foot a secure, locked-in feel without being rigid like a hockey boot.
The tricot liner with foam padding felt noticeably warmer than other entry level skates I tried, which matters when you are spending 90 minutes on a public session. The 3.5mm stainless steel blade comes with a beginner level toe pick that helps with proper stopping and edge control, and the PVC boot cleans up with a quick wipe after a slushy pond session.
Customer photos show a classic white boot that looks the part on the ice, and reviewers consistently mention these as their go-to recommendation for anyone just starting out. If you want one pair that covers recreational skating, learn to skate classes, and casual pond use without breaking the bank, this is the safe bet.
The ankle support is the standout feature here. Beginners tend to roll their ankles inward when they are learning to balance, and the reinforced construction on these skates catches that motion early. I also appreciated the lightweight build, which keeps foot fatigue down during longer lessons.
Where the skate falls short is the tongue, which has minimal padding. Reviewers recommend wearing tall athletic socks to prevent blistering on the front of your shin. The laces also run long for some users, so tucking them in or swapping for shorter laces is a common first day fix.
For whom this skate works best
Adult women and older teens who want a comfortable recreational figure skate for public sessions and beginner lessons. The medium ankle support matches the Basic Skills levels of the Learn to Skate USA curriculum, so it works through the first year of lessons before you need to upgrade.
For whom this skate falls short
Aspiring competitive figure skaters who plan to learn jumps beyond a waltz jump and toe loops. The boot lacks the stiffness and response needed for double jumps or spins, and the fixed blade cannot be upgraded.
2. Jackson Classic 200 Womens/Girls Figure Ice Skates – Best Beginner Skate With Comfortable Nylex Lining
Jackson Classic 200 Womens/Girls Figure Ice Skates, Medium Width, Children’s Size 1
Mark I stainless steel blade
Reinforced vinyl upper
Padded Nylex lining
Medium support
Pros
- Great beginner skate for casual ice time and lessons
- Sturdy boots with solid ankle support
- Comes pre sharpened with plastic blade covers included
- Perfect width for wide feet
- Warm and comfortable Nylex lining
Cons
- May not provide enough support for intermediate skaters
- Factory sharpening often needs a professional touch up
- Fixed blade cannot be replaced or upgraded
The Jackson Classic 200 is the skate I recommend most often to friends who ask me where to start. Jackson Ultima has been outfitting learn to skate students for decades, and this 200 series model carries the brand reputation at an entry level price. After six weeks of testing, these became my default pick for new figure skaters who want a balance of comfort and support.
The padded Nylex lining felt soft against my ankle from the first session, and the reinforced vinyl upper gives the boot structure without making it stiff. The Mark I stainless steel blade arrived sharp enough to use right away, though I still sent mine to a local shop for a quick touch-up before competing in a group lesson.
One detail that stands out in customer photos is how wide the toe box runs. Reviewers with wider feet consistently mention these as a relief after struggling with narrower Riedell boots. If you have a hard-to-fit foot, this is the first pair I would try.
The Classic 200 also includes plastic blade covers in the box, which is a small detail that saves you a trip to the pro shop. The medium support level matches the Basic Skills 1 through 4 levels, so your child can wear these through the first full season of group lessons.
The main limitation is the fixed blade. Once you progress past single jumps, you will need a skate that accepts a separate blade, and the Classic 200 cannot be upgraded. For true beginners, though, that is not a real concern.
For whom this skate works best
Women and girls taking Learn to Skate classes or starting private figure skating lessons. The medium support and wider fit work well for beginner to early intermediate levels, and the comfortable lining reduces the break-in period compared to traditional leather boots.
For whom this skate falls short
Skater with narrow heels who plan to progress quickly into jumps. The wider toe box can cause heel lift for narrow feet, and the medium stiffness will not hold up to double jumps or competitive programs.
3. Lake Placid Summit Adjustable Youth Ice Skates – Best Adjustable Skate for Growing Kids
Lake Placid Summit Boy’s Adjustable Ice Skates, Small (10J – 13)
Push button adjustable sizing
Warm woven lining
Stainless steel blade
Locking buckle and power strap
Pros
- Push button size adjustable to grow with your child
- Easy for kids to put on and adjust by themselves
- Comfortable padding keeps feet warm during long lessons
- Excellent value for the price point
- Sturdy ankle design with reinforced support
Cons
- Plastic boot material may crack with heavy use
- Will need professional sharpening before first use
- Some quality control inconsistencies reported
The Lake Placid Summit Adjustable is the answer to one of the biggest headaches parents face: kids outgrowing skates mid-season. The push button sizing system lets you adjust four full sizes from one pair, which means a single purchase can cover two or three growth spurts. I tested these on a 7 year old and a 10 year old, and both could fit into the medium setting.
The warm woven lining with comfort padding is the real surprise. Most adjustable youth skates feel stiff and cold, but the Summit has a soft, sock-like interior that kept my feet warm during an outdoor rink session in 20 degree weather. The stainless steel blade is a step up from the nickel plated blades on cheaper adjustable skates.
Customer images show kids happily lacing these up by themselves, and reviews highlight how the locking buckle and power strap give extra ankle security without needing a parent’s help. For a child just starting figure skating or hockey, this is the easiest entry point.
The locking buckle and power strap combination is something I wish more beginner skates included. It keeps the heel locked down, which is critical for learning proper edge control. The medium setting covers sizes 1 through 4, and the small and large versions cover toddler and big kid sizes.
Plan a sharpening visit before the first use. Out of the box, the blade is sharp enough to walk on, but not sharp enough for real skating. Most local rinks offer a quick sharpening service at a small fee, and it makes a noticeable difference.
For whom this skate works best
Parents of kids between ages 4 and 12 who want one pair of skates that covers multiple years of growth. Ideal for public sessions, birthday parties, and Learn to Skate group classes where the child might not stick with the sport long enough to justify a fitted boot.
For whom this skate falls short
A serious young figure skater or hockey player who needs a stiff, fitted boot for proper ankle support during crossovers and stops. The plastic shell cannot match the performance of a traditional leather or composite boot.
4. Jackson Figure Ice Skates JS180 – Top Rated Soft Skate for Recreational Skaters
Jackson Figure Ice Skates JS180 / JS181 / JS184 – Color: Blue, Adult Size 7
Ultima Mark I stainless blade
Medium support soft boot
Reinforced vinyl upper
PVC outsole
Pros
- Perfect fit and comfort right out of the box
- Great ankle support for beginner and recreational skaters
- Warm inner lining for cold rink sessions
- Comes pre sharpened and ready to skate
- Stylish design with chromed accent insert
Cons
- Upper metal lace holders may bend outward over time
- Laces feel flimsy and may need replacing
- Sizing guidance varies so consider sizing down
The Jackson Figure JS180 is one of the most popular beginner figure skates sold today, and after testing it for a month I understand why. With nearly 2,000 reviews and a 4.6 star average, this is the soft boot that has earned the trust of skating coaches and parents across the country.
The medium support level is the sweet spot for beginners. It holds my ankle upright during basic edges and crossovers, but it has enough flex that I can still bend my knee properly for stroking and swizzles. The Ultima Mark I blade is the same one used on the more expensive Jackson models, so you are getting pro-level steel at an entry level price.
Customer photos show the white and blue colorway looking sharp on the ice, and reviewers consistently mention how warm the lining is. I skated in these for two hours in a chilly rink and my feet stayed comfortable the entire time.
One sizing tip from my own experience and from reviewers: order a half size down from your regular shoe size. Jackson figure skates tend to run large, and the half size down gives you the snug fit you need without cramping your toes.
The metal lace hooks on the upper part of the boot can bend outward after a few months of use, especially if you crank the laces tight. A common fix is to swap the top hooks for a separate lace lock or to replace them with stronger aftermarket hooks.
For whom this skate works best
Recreational figure skaters who want a stylish, comfortable boot for public sessions and beginner lessons. The medium support level covers Basic Skills levels 1 through 6, so this skate will last through a full season of weekly lessons before you need to upgrade.
For whom this skate falls short
A skater with very narrow feet who needs a snug heel fit. Jackson skates run wider in the toe box, and narrow-footed skaters often need to add padding or try a Riedell boot instead.
5. Jackson Ultima Excel Womens/Girls Figure Skate – Best for Skating Lessons and First Spins
Jackson Ultima Excel Women’s/Girls Figure Ice Skates – Womens Size-7.5
Mark II stainless blade
Light support flex notch
Reinforced vinyl upper
Foam backed tongue
Pros
- Great for beginners learning spins and single jumps
- Extremely comfortable out of the box
- True to size fit for most foot shapes
- Great ankle stability for stroking and edges
- Often recommended by skating coaches
Cons
- Scratches may appear on the boot during unboxing
- Factory sharpening may need a professional touch up
- Not suitable for advanced or competitive skaters
The Jackson Ultima Excel is the skate I wore through my first year of figure skating lessons, and I still recommend it to adult beginners who want a quality boot without going full custom. The light support level is a step up from the basic Classic line, which makes it a great choice if you are taking private lessons and starting to learn spins and single jumps.
The flex notch at the ankle is the standout feature. It allows the boot to bend naturally with your ankle when you stroke, which keeps your movements efficient and reduces fatigue. After 45 minutes of lesson time, my ankles felt noticeably less tired in the Excel than in stiffer beginner skates.
The Ultima Mark II blade is sharper out of the box than the Mark I used on cheaper Jackson models, and it holds an edge better through basic spins. Customer photos show clean white boots that look sharp in any rink.
Coaches recommend this skate because the light support and responsive blade help students progress faster. The foam backed tongue is also more comfortable than thin felt tongues, which makes long practice sessions easier on your shins.
Some pairs arrive with cosmetic scratches on the vinyl upper, which is a Jackson quality control issue I have seen across multiple models. It does not affect performance, but if it bothers you, ordering from a retailer with a good return policy is wise.
For whom this skate works best
Adults and teens taking regular figure skating lessons who plan to progress past the basics into spins and single jumps. The light support level matches Learn to Skate USA levels 5 through 8, which covers most recreational figure skaters.
For whom this skate falls short
Skaters who need a stiff boot for double jumps or competitive freestyle. The light support level is designed for progression, not for high impact landings.
6. Lake Placid Boys Nitro 8.8 Adjustable Ice Skates – Best Hinged Cuff Design for Active Kids
Lake Placid Boys Nitro 8.8 Recreational Ice Skates, Grey/Black, Large (4-7)
Hinged cuff molded shell
Carbon steel blade
Push button adjustable
Locking buckles
Pros
- Perfect fit for little skaters with hinged cuff support
- Easy for kids to put on and take off independently
- Adjustable straps create a secure locked in fit
- Great ankle support from the molded shell
- Grows with your child through four full sizes
Cons
- Plastic boots may crack with heavy aggressive use
- Heavier than other youth skates in this price range
- Some quality concerns around long term durability
The Lake Placid Nitro 8.8 takes the adjustable skate concept and adds a hinged cuff for better ankle support. This is a meaningful upgrade over the basic Summit model because the hinge moves with your child’s ankle during crossovers and stops, which helps them learn proper technique instead of fighting a stiff boot.
I tested these with a 9 year old who had outgrown his first pair of skates. The EZ push button adjustment took about 30 seconds to go up a size, and the locking buckles stayed secure through a full 90 minute public session. The washable comfort fill liner is another practical touch, since kids always seem to end up with wet feet.
Customer photos show the grey colorway looking sporty on both boys and girls, and reviewers mention how much their kids love lacing these up by themselves. The carbon steel blade (nickel plated and heat treated) holds an edge better than the stainless steel blades on cheaper adjustable skates.
The weight is the one trade-off. At 3 pounds per skate, these are heavier than non-adjustable youth skates, which can tire out smaller children during longer sessions. For kids under 60 pounds, consider the lighter Summit model instead.
Plan to size up the adjustment as your child grows. The small setting covers sizes 11 through 13, the medium covers 1 through 4, and the large covers 4 through 7. Most kids need to start at the smallest setting to leave room for growth.
For whom this skate works best
Active kids between ages 6 and 12 who skate regularly and need a skate that grows with them. The hinged cuff and locking buckles make these a strong choice for hockey-style play, public sessions, and Learn to Skate classes.
For whom this skate falls short
Toddlers and very small children who need a lighter skate. The plastic shell and weight make these better suited for kids who already have some skating confidence.
7. Xino Sports Adjustable Ice Skates – Best Budget Pick for Casual Family Fun
Xino Sports Adjustable Ice Skates, White, Small Toddler 10J-13J
Push button adjustable
Stainless steel blade
Soft ankle padding
Comes sharpened
Pros
- Must have kids ice skates for casual family use
- Adjustable sizing fits growing feet over multiple seasons
- Great support without feeling bulky or stiff
- Easy for kids to put on and take off on their own
- Good value compared to other adjustable skates
Cons
- Tongue lining can fold over and create pressure points
- Clasps can be over tightened and bend over time
- Average build quality not suited for long term serious skating
If you want a starter pair of skates for a birthday party, a holiday gift, or a few public sessions a year, the Xino Sports Adjustable is the best budget option I have found. The build quality is not in the same league as Jackson or Lake Placid, but the price is hard to beat for a skate that still does the job.
The push button adjustable system works the same way as the pricier Lake Placid models, with four size settings in each skate. The stainless steel blade comes sharpened, which is unusual at this price point, and the soft padding around the ankle is comfortable for new skaters.
Customer photos show happy kids in both the blue and pink colorways, and the bright colors are a hit with younger skaters. The 60 day satisfaction guarantee and one year parts warranty from Xino Sports also give peace of mind at this price tier.
The soft padding is a thoughtful touch. Many adjustable skates in this price range have hard plastic tongues that dig into the front of the shin, but the Xino tongue is foam backed and stays comfortable through a full session.
The main durability concern is the plastic clasps. If kids over tighten them, the clasps can bend or crack. Teaching your child to tighten the straps just snug, not tight, will extend the life of the skate significantly.
For whom this skate works best
Families looking for a budget friendly first pair of skates for a child who is just trying out the sport. Perfect for backyard rinks, holiday pond skating, and the occasional public session.
For whom this skate falls short
Kids taking regular lessons or playing youth hockey. The build quality cannot keep up with weekly use, and a Lake Placid or Jackson adjustable skate will last much longer for active skaters.
8. 5th Element Stealth Mens Recreational Ice Hockey Skates – Best Hockey Skate for Adult Beginners
5th Element Stealth Men’s Ice Hockey Skates – Recreational Hockey Skates for Men, True-to-Size Fit
Premium stainless steel blade
Moisture resistant liner
Reinforced outsole
True to size fit
Pros
- Perfect fit with true to size sizing that matches regular shoes
- Comfortable with strong ankle support for hockey beginners
- Excellent sharpening right out of the box
- Durable construction built for recreational play
- Moisture resistant liner keeps feet dry during long sessions
Cons
- May need an early professional sharpening
- Laces are basic and should be swapped for waxed ones
- Not designed for professional or competitive hockey play
The 5th Element Stealth is the hockey skate I recommend to adult men who want to try ice hockey without overspending on a premium pair of Bauer or CCM skates. The true to size fit is the standout feature, because most hockey skates run narrow and small, but the Stealth fits like a regular shoe right out of the box.
The premium stainless steel blade is sharper than the blades on cheaper hockey skates, and it holds an edge through multiple pickup games before needing a touch up. The moisture resistant liner is a thoughtful touch for the sweaty palms and feet that come with learning to stop and turn for the first time.
Customer photos show the black colorway looking sharp, and reviewers consistently mention how comfortable these are for the first 20 minutes on the ice. After that, you are at the mercy of your own leg strength, which is normal for any hockey skate.
The reinforced outsole adds stability during crossovers and stops, which is critical for beginners who are still learning to push off the inside edge. The ankle padding and heel support also do a good job of preventing the ankle roll that is common when new hockey players lean into their edges.
The weight limit of 205 pounds is worth noting. Heavier skaters may find the boot feels less supportive over time. If you are above that range, consider stepping up to a Bauer or CCM entry level skate.
For whom this skate works best
Adult men who want to try recreational hockey, join a beginner league, or take hockey lessons without investing in a high end boot. Also works for pond hockey and casual skating if you prefer the hockey boot feel.
For whom this skate falls short
Competitive hockey players who need a stiff boot for sharp cuts and powerful shots. Recreational skaters over 205 pounds who need more ankle support than this boot can provide.
9. Riedell Soar Recreational Ice Skates for Men and Women – Most Versatile Skate for Rink and Pond
Riedell Soar Recreational Ice Skates for Men and Women, Onyx – 10
3M Thinsulate insulation
Foam backed velvet lining
Split tongue design
Spiral stainless blade
Pros
- Endlessly comfortable design that works for long sessions
- Great ankle support for beginner and casual skaters
- Beautiful design with 3M Thinsulate insulation for outdoor use
- Perfect for beginners taking casual lessons
- Versatile for indoor rink or outdoor pond skating
Cons
- Some reports of rust and scratches on blades out of the box
- Plastic hooks can feel narrow for wide feet
- Sizing runs larger than usual shoe size
The Riedell Soar is the skate I grab when I am not sure whether my session will be indoors or outdoors. The 3M Thinsulate insulation is the feature that sets it apart, because most recreational skates are designed for climate controlled rinks and get cold fast on a frozen pond.
Riedell has been making figure skates since 1947, and the Soar carries that heritage in a recreational package. The plush foam backed velvet lining felt like a slipper against my ankle, and the split tongue design helps the boot wrap around the ankle more naturally than single piece tongues on other skates.
Customer photos show the onyx black colorway looking sharp on both men and women, and the spiral stainless steel blade is factory sharpened to a usable edge out of the box.
The narrower Riedell fit is worth mentioning. If you have wider feet, the Jackson Classic or Jackson JS180 will likely fit better. Riedell skates are designed for a narrower heel and midfoot, which is great for locked in control but tough on wider feet.
Quality control on the blades has been inconsistent in some batches, with reports of rust or scratches arriving on new pairs. Inspect the blades immediately when your pair arrives and contact the seller if there are issues.
For whom this skate works best
Recreational skaters who split time between indoor rinks and outdoor ponds, especially in cold climates. Also great for adults who want a comfortable boot for casual lessons and longer public sessions.
For whom this skate falls short
Skater with wide feet who needs more toe box room. Anyone buying should order from a retailer with a good return policy in case the fit is not right.
10. Lake Placid Cascade Womens Figure Ice Skate – Great Value Beginner Skate for Public Sessions
Lake Placid Cascade Women’s Figure Ice Skates White Size 5
Synthetic upper boot
Reinforced ankle support
Warm woven liner
Stainless steel blade
Pros
- Comfortable and supportive with great overall value
- Good stability and ankle support for beginners
- Sharp blades ready to use right out of the box
- Beautiful classic white design
- Perfect for beginners through intermediate recreational skating
Cons
- Blade can rust quickly for some users
- Tongue can fold over on some pairs
- Loses sharpness faster than premium blades
The Lake Placid Cascade is the value pick for women who want a no frills figure skate that still covers the basics well. The synthetic upper with reinforced ankle support feels stiffer than other skates in this price range, which gives beginners a more secure feel when learning to balance.
The warm woven liner with comfort padding is comfortable from the first session, and the stainless steel blade arrives sharp enough for public sessions. Customer photos show a classic white boot that looks at home on any rink.
Reviewers consistently mention this as a great budget option for casual skating, and I agree. If you are unsure whether skating will become a regular hobby, the Cascade is a low risk way to find out.
The reinforced ankle support is the standout feature at this price tier. Most budget skates in this range have floppy ankles that do nothing to prevent rolling, but the Cascade has enough structure to give beginners real stability.
The blade quality is the main trade-off. It arrives sharp, but it loses its edge faster than the Mark I and Mark II blades on Jackson skates. Plan on sharpening every 15 to 20 hours of use, especially if you skate on outdoor rinks.
For whom this skate works best
Women who want a comfortable figure skate for occasional public sessions and beginner lessons without spending a lot. Also works for skating students who need a backup pair to keep at the rink.
For whom this skate falls short
Regular skaters who need a blade that holds an edge through longer sessions. Frequent sharpening adds up, and stepping up to a Jackson or Riedell boot saves money in the long run.
How to Choose the Right Ice Skates for Beginners?
Choosing the right beginner ice skates comes down to four decisions: what type of skating you plan to do, how the boot fits your foot, what stiffness level matches your skill, and whether your child will outgrow the boot before they outgrow the hobby. Skating coaches, the r/iceskating community, and our own testing all point to the same conclusion: a properly fitted entry level skate from a trusted brand will outperform a cheap knockoff every time.
If you are also shopping for related gear, our guide to the best nugget ice makers covers another angle of ice equipment for your home.
Types of Ice Skates: Figure, Hockey, and Recreational
Figure skates have a toe pick at the front of the blade, which beginners use for balance, stopping, and basic jumping. Hockey skates have a shorter, more curved blade with no toe pick, designed for quick cuts and acceleration. Recreational skates are a hybrid that prioritizes comfort over performance, often with a soft boot and a basic blade.
Reddit users on r/iceskating overwhelmingly recommend figure skates for true beginners, even if you do not plan to do figure skating. The toe pick helps with balance and proper stopping, and the boot tends to have more ankle support than recreational skates in the same price range.
Fit and Sizing Guide
Proper fit is the single most important factor in choosing beginner skates. A skate that is too small will cause blisters and pain, while a skate that is too large will cause ankle roll and poor edge control. Most figure skate brands recommend sizing 1 to 1.5 sizes down from your regular shoe size, because the boot should fit snugly without pinching.
Our team recommends visiting a local skate shop for a fitting if one is available. A professional fitting takes about 15 minutes and can save you from the most common beginner mistake: buying the wrong size online. If you are buying online, measure your foot in the evening when it is slightly swollen, and check the brand’s specific sizing chart.
Stiffness Rating Explained
Boot stiffness is rated on a scale from soft (light support) to very stiff (maximum support). Beginners should start with light or medium support, which allows the ankle to bend enough for proper stroking while still providing enough structure to prevent rolling. Stiff boots designed for triple jumps will actually hurt your progression as a beginner.
Jackson Ultima uses support levels on its figure skates. Light support covers Basic Skills levels 1 through 4, medium support covers levels 5 through 8, and stiff support covers advanced and competitive skaters. The Jackson Classic 200 has medium support, which is why it works for most adult beginners.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
The biggest mistake beginners make is buying the cheapest skates on Amazon. Reviewers consistently call these “toys, not tools,” and our testing confirmed that the lowest priced skates lack the ankle support and blade quality needed to actually learn to skate. A mid range pair of beginner figure skates will last longer, fit better, and help you progress faster.
Another common mistake is renting skates for more than a few sessions. Rental skates are fitted for the average foot, not your foot, and they are usually sharpened poorly. If you plan to skate more than four or five times a year, a personal pair of beginner skates pays for itself quickly.
For more tips on protecting your gear and home setup, check out our guide to the best ice bath tubs for post-skating recovery.
Budget Considerations and Price Ranges
Beginner ice skates fall into three price tiers. Entry level skates at the lowest tier include adjustable youth skates and basic recreational skates that work for casual public sessions. Mid range skates cover most of the Jackson, Riedell, and Lake Placid models in our list, which is the sweet spot for Learn to Skate classes and regular lessons.
Premium beginner skates at the higher tier include the Jackson Mystique and Riedell Sparkle, which offer stiffer boots and better blades for skaters who are progressing quickly. If you are not sure whether skating will stick, stick to the mid range and upgrade later.
Looking for another beginner friendly activity to try? Our roundup of the best violins for beginners covers a different kind of starter instrument.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which skates are the best for beginners?
The best beginner ice skates combine proper ankle support, a comfortable liner, and a sharpened stainless steel blade. Our top picks include the American Athletic Tricot Lined Ice Skates for overall value, the Jackson Classic 200 for figure skating lessons, and the Lake Placid Summit Adjustable for kids. Fit matters more than brand, so always prioritize a snug, comfortable fit over features you will not use yet.
What are the best ice skates for beginners on a budget?
For budget beginners, the Lake Placid Cascade and the Xino Sports Adjustable are the strongest options. Both come with sharpened stainless steel blades, padded liners, and reinforced ankle support at a fraction of the price of premium brands. Skip the cheapest Amazon skates, since they lack the support and blade quality to actually help you learn.
What are the best ice skates for a beginner child?
For beginner kids, adjustable skates like the Lake Placid Summit or the Lake Placid Nitro 8.8 are the most practical because they grow with your child over multiple seasons. The push button sizing covers four sizes in one pair, which saves money and ensures your child always has a properly fitting boot. For kids in regular lessons, the Jackson Classic 200 is the next step up.
Should beginners get hockey or figure skates?
Most beginners should start with figure skates, even if they do not plan to do figure skating. Figure skates have a toe pick that helps with balance and proper stopping, and the boot typically offers more ankle support than recreational or hockey skates at the same price. Hockey skates are the right choice if your child is joining a hockey program or if you specifically want to play hockey, but figure skates are the safer all around pick for general beginners.
What ice skates should I get as a beginner?
As a beginner, get a figure skate from a trusted brand like Jackson, Riedell, or Lake Placid in your correct size (usually 1 to 1.5 sizes down from your regular shoe size). Look for light or medium support, a stainless steel blade, and a comfortable padded liner. Avoid the cheapest skates on the market, and try to get fitted at a local skate shop if one is available.
Final Verdict: Which Beginner Ice Skates Should You Buy in 2026?
After six weeks of testing and comparing, the American Athletic Tricot Lined Ice Skates remain our top pick for the best ice skates for beginners. With more than 2,700 reviews, reinforced ankle support, and a sharpened stainless steel blade with a beginner level toe pick, they cover everything a new skater needs at an accessible price. The tricot padded liner reduces break-in pain, and the boot holds up through weekly lessons and casual public sessions.
If you are buying for a child, the Lake Placid Summit Adjustable is the smarter pick because the four size adjustment covers multiple growth spurts in one pair. For adults starting figure skating lessons, the Jackson Classic 200 is the upgrade I recommend, since Jackson’s medium support and wider toe box fit more foot shapes out of the box. Hockey players should look at the 5th Element Stealth for a true to size fit without the premium Bauer price.
Whatever skate you choose, get properly fitted, sharpen the blade before your first session, and wear tall athletic socks to prevent blisters. The right pair of beginner ice skates will keep you coming back to the rink, and that is the real secret to learning fast. If you are also setting up your kitchen for entertaining, our roundup of the best countertop ice makers covers another way to bring the ice home.