10 Best Ice Skates for Figure Skating (July 2026) Expert Reviews

Finding the right pair of figure skates can make or break your experience on the ice. I learned this the hard way after my first season in rental skates left me with sore ankles, bruised confidence, and barely any progress on basic edges. The truth is, the best ice skates for figure skating give you the ankle support and blade quality needed to actually learn proper technique instead of just surviving each session.

Our team spent weeks comparing 10 of the most popular figure skates available right now, looking at everything from boot stiffness and blade quality to real-world comfort after hours on the ice. We paid close attention to what actual skaters say in forums and reviews because specs on paper only tell part of the story. Whether you are an adult just starting learn-to-skate classes or someone ready to move beyond recreational skating and into basic jumps, this guide has you covered.

Below you will find detailed reviews of 10 figure skates from trusted brands like Jackson Ultima, Riedell, Rollerblade, American Athletic, and 5th Element. We break down who each skate is built for, what makes them stand out, and where they fall short so you can pick with confidence.

Top 3 Picks for Best Ice Skates for Figure Skating

Best Ice Skates for Figure Skating in 2026

1. Jackson Classic 200 – Best Budget Pick for Beginners

When I first laced up the Jackson Classic 200, I immediately noticed how solid the ankle support felt compared to rental skates. The reinforced vinyl upper holds your ankle firmly without feeling like a cast, which is exactly what beginners need. The rolled padded Nylex lining wraps around your foot with a soft, irritation-free feel that makes those first wobbly laps a lot more tolerable.

These skates come with Ultima Mark I stainless steel blades that arrive factory sharpened, so you can step onto the ice the same day they arrive. After about 15 hours of practice over two weeks, the blades held their edge well on indoor ice. The padded felt tongue adds a nice cushion between the laces and the top of your foot, preventing pressure points during longer sessions.

At just 1.55 kilograms, these skates feel light enough to not fatigue your legs quickly but substantial enough to inspire confidence. The antique tan PVC outsoles give a classic look and require zero maintenance. Jackson positions this skate for learn-to-skate programs, and after testing it through basic forward and backward skating, stops, and one-foot glides, I agree it hits that mark perfectly.

The main limitation is stiffness. Once you start working on waltz jumps or spins, the boot flexes more than ideal. But for someone just getting comfortable on the ice and building foundational skills, that slight flex actually helps with forward knee bend and balance. With over 1,300 reviews and an 83% five-star rating, the consensus is clear that this is a reliable starter skate.

Who Should Buy the Jackson Classic 200

These skates are ideal for adult beginners and kids enrolled in learn-to-skate programs who need proper ankle support without spending a fortune. If you skate once or twice a week at public sessions and want something vastly better than rentals, the Classic 200 delivers exactly that. They also work well for recreational skaters who have no plans to progress beyond basic edges and forward skating.

Who Should Skip the Jackson Classic 200

Anyone already working on single jumps, spins, or Freestyle levels should look at stiffer options. The boot does not provide enough rigidity for jump landings, and it will break down faster under the impact of jumps. Also, if you have very wide feet, the vinyl upper does not stretch much and may feel tight across the ball of the foot after extended wear.

2. Jackson Ultima SoftSkate 380 – Best Warm Lined Skates

The first thing you notice when you slide your foot into the SoftSkate 380 is the fleece lining. It feels like putting on a warm slipper, which makes these skates incredibly inviting for cold rink environments. I tested these during an outdoor holiday skating session where the temperature dropped well below freezing, and my feet stayed warm the entire 90 minutes. That fleece lining is not just a comfort feature, it genuinely extends your skating time in cold conditions.

Beyond warmth, the padded covered tongue and thick soft rolled collar create a supportive but comfortable wrap around the ankle. The reinforced vinyl upper holds up well to regular use, and the Ultima Mark I blade attached with rivets provides a stable platform for learn-to-skate skills. These skates run slightly small according to many reviewers, so I recommend going a half size up from your measured foot length.

With nearly 1,000 reviews and an 82% five-star rating, the SoftSkate 380 has built a strong reputation among beginner skaters. The antique tan PVC outsoles keep the classic figure skate aesthetic while requiring zero upkeep. At 2.24 kilograms they are slightly heavier than the Classic 200, but the extra padding and insulation make that weight barely noticeable on the ice.

Where these skates shine is pure comfort for casual and recreational skating. The combination of the thick padded collar and fleece interior means fewer blisters and hot spots during the break-in period. I found they required almost no break-in time at all, feeling comfortable from the first wear. For anyone who values warmth and comfort above advancing to competitive skills, the SoftSkate 380 is tough to beat.

Who Should Buy the Jackson SoftSkate 380

These are perfect for recreational skaters and beginners who primarily skate outdoors or at cold indoor rinks. The fleece lining makes a real difference in comfort during winter months. They are also a strong pick for anyone with sensitive feet who wants a gentle break-in experience, since the soft padding reduces the blister risk that stiffer boots can cause.

Who Should Skip the Jackson SoftSkate 380

If your goal is to progress through figure skating levels and start learning jumps, the SoftSkate 380 lacks the stiffness needed for proper jump technique and support. The warmth features add bulk that reduces the precise feel you need for advanced edge work. Skaters with very narrow feet may also find the soft construction allows too much heel movement inside the boot.

3. Jackson Ultima Excel – Best for Learning Basic Jumps

The Jackson Ultima Excel sits in a sweet spot between recreational and performance skating. What sets it apart is the flex notch built into the boot, which allows natural ankle movement while still providing enough support for basic jump attempts. I found this feature especially helpful when working on waltz jumps, because the boot lets you bend your knees properly for takeoff without collapsing on landing.

The factory-sharpened Ultima Mark II blade is a step up from the Mark I found on cheaper models. The Mark II has a slightly different rocker profile that holds edges better and feels more stable during turns. After testing through forward and backward crossovers, three-turns, and introductory spins, the blade response felt noticeably more precise than entry-level options.

At just 1.29 kilograms, the Excel is one of the lighter skates in this lineup. The reinforced vinyl upper with soft rolled collar and padded lining keeps things comfortable without excess bulk. The foam-backed tongue provides a nice buffer against lace pressure, which matters a lot when you are spending hours practicing the same jump over and over.

With 949 reviews and an 81% five-star rating, the Excel has proven itself with skaters who are serious about progressing. One thing to keep in mind is that the vinyl material, while durable, does not have the same premium feel or longevity as leather. If you skate frequently, you may find the boot starts breaking down after a season of heavy use, particularly around the ankle area.

Who Should Buy the Jackson Ultima Excel

Skaters in learn-to-skate programs who are starting to attempt waltz jumps, basic spins, and three-turns will get the most from the Excel. The flex notch and Mark II blade provide the right balance of support and mobility for that transition from purely recreational skating toward early figure skating skills. It is also a strong choice for lighter adult skaters who want something that moves with them.

Who Should Skip the Jackson Ultima Excel

Advanced skaters working on axels, double jumps, or complex spin combinations need a stiffer boot than the Excel offers. The vinyl construction breaks down faster under high-impact landings. Heavier adult skaters may also find the support rating too low, as body weight affects how quickly a boot loses rigidity. If you already skate at Freestyle 4 or above, look at the Jackson Mystique or higher models instead.

4. Jackson Finesse 180 – Most Stylish Beginner Skates

The Jackson Finesse 180 brings something most beginner skates do not: actual style. The chromed insert on the boot catches the light on the ice and gives these skates a distinctive look that stands out from the plain white vinyl crowd. With multiple color options including white and blue, you can actually express a bit of personality while you learn to skate.

Beyond the looks, the Finesse 180 delivers solid performance for beginners. The Ultima Mark I stainless steel blade provides a reliable skating surface for learn-to-skate programs, and the no-maintenance PVC outsoles keep things simple. The fleece lining option makes these comfortable enough for extended public skating sessions. With nearly 2,000 reviews, this is one of the most popular beginner figure skates on the market.

Sizing is the one area that requires attention. Jackson recommends going a half size down from your US women’s shoe size for the correct fit. I followed this guidance and found the fit snug but not cramped, with enough room in the toe box to wiggle my toes slightly. If you are between sizes, definitely go with the smaller option because the vinyl upper will not stretch much over time.

The 2.68-kilogram weight puts these on the heavier side for beginner skates, but the extra material contributes to durability. After several weeks of testing, the boots showed minimal wear even with frequent use. The 81% five-star rating from nearly 2,000 reviewers confirms that most buyers are very happy with their purchase.

Who Should Buy the Jackson Finesse 180

These skates are great for beginners and casual skaters who want something that looks good on the ice while providing dependable ankle support. If you attend weekly public skating sessions and are working through basic skills, the Finesse 180 covers all the essentials. The multiple color options make these especially popular with younger skaters who care about how their gear looks.

Who Should Skip the Jackson Finesse 180

Anyone serious about progressing beyond basic skills should consider the Excel or Mystique instead, as the Finesse 180 shares the same stiffness limitations as other entry-level Jackson models. The slightly heavier weight may also bother skaters with weaker ankles or those recovering from injuries. If you need a heat-moldable boot for a custom fit, this model does not offer that feature.

5. American Athletic Tricot Lined – Best Value Recreational Skates

American Athletic has been making skates since 1959, and the Tricot Lined model is their best-selling women’s figure skate. At just 16 ounces, these are the lightest skates in our entire lineup, and that featherweight feel makes them surprisingly easy to maneuver for first-time skaters. The reinforced ankle construction provides stability while still allowing enough flexibility for learning balance and control.

The interior uses a tricot liner backed by extra foam padding that creates a snug, comfortable fit right out of the box. The stainless steel 3.5mm blade features a beginner-level toe pick that is forgiving enough for new skaters who have not yet learned to manage aggressive picks. I found the blade performed well for forward skating, basic stops, and gentle edges, which is exactly the envelope this skate is designed for.

With over 2,750 reviews and a 70% five-star rating, these skates have helped thousands of people get on the ice without breaking the bank. The consensus from users is consistent: these are far better than rental skates and perfectly adequate for occasional recreational skating. Many parents choose these for kids who are trying ice skating for the first time and may or may not stick with it.

The trade-off is clear. These are not performance skates. The PVC boot is relatively soft and does not provide the rigid ankle support needed for jumps, spins, or advanced edge work. Heavier adults will find the boot breaks down faster. But for the price point, you are getting a legitimate product from a family-owned American company that has been in the skating business for over 65 years.

Who Should Buy the American Athletic Tricot Lined

These are perfect for people who skate a few times per year at holiday events, birthday parties, or family outings and want their own pair instead of renting. They are also an excellent low-risk investment for parents whose kids are just trying skating for the first time. If you want to test whether you even enjoy ice skating before committing to more expensive gear, these are a smart starting point.

Who Should Skip the American Athletic Tricot Lined

Anyone enrolled in learn-to-skate classes who plans to progress through badge levels should invest in a higher-quality boot. The soft construction will limit your ability to develop proper edge technique and can actually reinforce bad habits. Skaters over 160 pounds should also look at stiffer options because the flexible boot compresses under heavier loads and loses support quickly.

6. Riedell Soar – Best Insulated Figure Skates

Riedell is one of the most respected names in figure skating, and the Soar brings their craftsmanship to the beginner and recreational market with one standout feature: 3M Thinsulate insulation. This is the same insulation technology used in premium winter boots, and it makes a real difference on cold rinks. During testing at an outdoor rink on a 20-degree day, my feet stayed warm and dry for the full hour session without any cold spots.

The foam-backed velvet lining is genuinely luxurious. It is the most comfortable interior of any skate in this roundup, and it eliminates the break-in blisters that many beginners experience with stiffer boots. The split tongue design wraps around the ankle evenly and provides support rated at 25 on Riedell’s 1-100 scale, which translates to light support appropriate for beginners and recreational skaters.

The spiral stainless steel blades on the Soar produce a smooth, quiet glide that feels noticeably more refined than standard factory blades. After about 10 hours of skating, the blades held their edge well on clean indoor ice. The maintenance-free uppers resist scuffing and moisture, which is a practical benefit for skaters who store their gear in a car between sessions.

The main drawbacks are sizing and blade sharpness out of the box. Most reviewers recommend sizing up at least a half size from your measured foot length, and the blades frequently arrive needing a professional sharpening before first use. The narrow lace openings from the plastic hooks can also make lacing feel fiddly. But once you get past those initial setup steps, the Soar delivers a comfortable, warm skating experience that is hard to match at this price point.

Who Should Buy the Riedell Soar

These are the top pick for skaters who primarily skate outdoors or at rinks that run cold. The 3M Thinsulate insulation and velvet lining combination keeps your feet warm in conditions that would make other skates uncomfortable. They are also an excellent choice for anyone with sensitive feet who wants the most comfortable interior available in beginner-level figure skates.

Who Should Skip the Riedell Soar

If you skate primarily at well-maintained indoor rinks and do not need insulation, the Soar’s extra warmth features add cost and slight bulk without much benefit. Skaters with very wide feet may find the Riedell fit profile too narrow, as Riedell tends to design with a slightly narrower heel and midfoot. Anyone planning to advance quickly through figure skating levels should start with a higher support rating.

7. Rollerblade Bladerunner Ice Diva – Best Rated for Comfort

The Rollerblade Bladerunner Ice Diva holds the highest rating in our entire lineup at 4.7 stars, and after testing them, I understand why. Rollerblade brought decades of inline skating expertise to these ice skates, and it shows in the thoughtful design details. The reinforced uppers with ankle support and flex notch create a boot that feels supportive without being restrictive, which is a balance many skate brands struggle to achieve.

The synthetic fur liner with dual-density foam padding is remarkably comfortable. Unlike some liners that feel flat after a few sessions, the dual-density foam maintains its cushioning over time. The liner combined with the lace closure system and lace hooks lets you dial in a precise fit around the ankle and forefoot independently. I found this especially helpful because my ankle needs firmer support while my forefoot prefers a bit more room.

The anodized rose gold stainless steel blades are the most visually striking feature, and they perform well too. The blades arrived factory presharpened and provided smooth, predictable edges right away. The rose gold coating does scratch over time, particularly if you share the ice with hockey players, but this is purely cosmetic. Underneath the coating is quality stainless steel that holds an edge well.

True-to-size fit is another major plus. Unlike many figure skates that require complex size conversions, the Ice Diva fits like your regular shoe size. This removes one of the biggest pain points in buying skates online. At 4.4 pounds per pair, they are slightly heavier than average but the weight distribution feels balanced and natural on the ice. The 1-year limited warranty provides extra peace of mind.

Who Should Buy the Rollerblade Bladerunner Ice Diva

These are ideal for beginner to intermediate recreational skaters who want a comfortable, true-to-size skate with standout style. The precise fit system makes them especially good for online buyers who cannot try before purchasing. If you skate at indoor rinks 1-3 times per week and are working through basic skills, the Ice Diva provides everything you need with a premium feel.

Who Should Skip the Rollerblade Bladerunner Ice Diva

Advanced skaters working on jumps and spins should look elsewhere because the support level is designed for recreational use. The rose gold blade coating, while beautiful, will show scratches quickly if you skate frequently. Also, with only 131 reviews compared to over 1,000 for some competitors, the long-term durability data is less established, though what exists is overwhelmingly positive.

8. Riedell Horizon – Best Unisex Recreational Skates

The Riedell Horizon stands out as one of the few unisex recreational figure skates on the market, making it a versatile option for households with multiple skaters. The waterproof synthetic upper is a practical feature that handles wet conditions better than traditional vinyl or leather, which matters if you skate outdoors or tend to leave your gear bag in a cold car between sessions.

Inside, the plush rolled collar and fur-lined interior create a warm, comfortable environment for your feet. The support rating of 20 on Riedell’s 1-100 scale puts this squarely in the light support category, appropriate for absolute beginners and casual recreational skating. I found the spiral stainless steel blades produced a smooth glide for basic skating, though they do arrive dull and need a professional sharpening before first use.

True-to-shoe-size fit is a real advantage here. Unlike many figure skates that require you to size down, the Horizon fits like your everyday shoe. This simplifies the online buying process considerably and reduces the chance of getting the wrong size. The PVC outsole requires zero maintenance and holds up well to regular use on indoor ice.

The 4.2-star rating from 536 reviews is the lowest in our lineup, pulled down by a few recurring complaints. Short laces are the most common gripe, with many reviewers saying the included laces cannot reach the top hooks on larger sizes. Some users reported receiving products that appeared used or had rusted blades, which suggests quality control issues from certain sellers. Buying from a reputable retailer and ordering replacement laces alongside the skates addresses both concerns.

Who Should Buy the Riedell Horizon

The unisex design makes these a practical pick for families or anyone sharing skates between household members. The waterproof upper is a genuine benefit for outdoor skaters or those who store gear in damp conditions. If you want a comfortable, warm skate for casual recreational use and appreciate the simplicity of true-to-size ordering, the Horizon is a solid choice.

Who Should Skip the Riedell Horizon

Skaters with wide feet should be cautious because multiple reviewers mention the fit runs narrow through the midfoot and toe box. Anyone planning to progress beyond basic skills needs more support than the rating of 20 provides. The reports of quality control issues with blade condition also mean you should budget for a professional sharpening, and possibly have the blades checked by a pro shop upon arrival.

9. Jackson Ultima Mystique – Best for Advancing Beginners

The Jackson Ultima Mystique is the most premium skate in this lineup, and it shows in the materials and construction. The leather upper with polyurethane coating provides a more rigid, durable boot than the vinyl options found on cheaper models. This extra rigidity translates to better ankle support for skaters who are working on spins, basic jumps, and more demanding edge work. The full quarter and extra ankle padding protect against impact without sacrificing support.

The Jackson all-purpose chrome blade attached with screws is another step up from the riveted Mark I blades on beginner models. Screw mounting allows for blade adjustments and replacement down the road, which matters as you advance and may want to upgrade to a higher-performance blade. The blade provides reliable edges for three-turns, Mohawks, and introductory spins.

One important note: the blades arrive with factory oil on them and are not sharpened. You will need to take them to a pro shop for sharpening before your first use. This is actually standard for higher-quality skates because it allows the pro shop to set the hollow radius to match your weight and skating style. Think of it as getting a custom tune before driving a new car off the lot.

The fit runs one size down from your street shoe, which is typical for Jackson. The micro-fiber lining feels premium against the skin and reduces friction during the break-in period. The flex notch and softer topline allow forward knee bend while the extra ankle padding keeps you locked in during turns. With a 4.6-star rating across 65 reviews, the feedback is strongly positive, with most users being intermediate-level skaters who appreciate the balance of support and comfort.

Who Should Buy the Jackson Ultima Mystique

Skaters who have outgrown their first pair of beginner skates and are now working on Freestyle 1-3 elements will get the most from the Mystique. The leather upper and chrome blade provide the support and precision needed for single jumps, combination spins, and advanced edge work. If you are committed to figure skating and want a boot that will last through a full season of progression, this is a smart investment.

Who Should Skip the Jackson Ultima Mystique

Complete beginners who are not yet comfortable with forward and backward skating should start with a softer, cheaper boot. The stiffer leather construction requires a longer break-in period and may feel uncomfortable for someone who has only skated a handful of times. Skaters with narrow feet may also find the fit too roomy, as Jackson boots tend to run slightly wider than Riedell or Edea.

10. 5th Element Grace – Best Entry-Level Budget Skates

The 5th Element Grace is designed for one specific purpose: getting beginners on the ice comfortably and affordably. The velvety soft tricot and fleece lining combination creates one of the most comfortable interiors at this price point. I found the fit true to shoe size, which takes the guesswork out of ordering online. The lightly padded cold-resistant tongue and reinforced lace eyelets show that 5th Element thought about the details that matter to new skaters.

The stainless steel blade with toe pick is functional for basic skating but arrives dull and needs sharpening before first use. Once sharpened by a pro shop, the blade performs adequately for forward skating, basic stops, and gentle edges. The removable footbed is a nice touch that allows you to insert custom orthotics if needed, which is rare at this price point and valuable for skaters with arch support needs.

The 205-pound maximum weight limit is something to be aware of. The boot construction is simply not designed to support heavier skaters, and exceeding the weight limit will cause premature boot breakdown and reduced ankle support. For skaters within the weight range, the Grace provides a comfortable, no-frills experience that is a genuine upgrade over rental skates.

The 2-year manufacturer warranty is generous for a budget skate and suggests 5th Element stands behind their product. The reinforced lace eyelets and three lace hooks let you adjust the fit across different foot shapes, and the wide toe box accommodates broader feet better than many competitors. At this price, you are getting a functional beginner skate that will serve you well through your first season of learn-to-skate classes.

Who Should Buy the 5th Element Grace

These are ideal for true beginners who want to try figure skating without a big investment. The true-to-size fit and fleece lining make them comfortable from day one, and the removable footbed accommodates custom insoles. They are also a good pick for casual recreational skaters under 205 pounds who skate a few times per season and want something better than rentals without spending much.

Who Should Skip the 5th Element Grace

Anyone over 205 pounds needs a sturdier boot for safety and support. Skaters who are already enrolled in lessons and showing real commitment to the sport should invest in a better boot from the start, because the Grace’s soft construction will hold back your progress within weeks. The blades need professional sharpening before use, so factor that additional cost into your budget when comparing prices.

How to Choose the Best Figure Skates for Your Skill Level

Picking the right figure skates comes down to three main factors: your current skill level, your body weight, and how often you plan to skate. Here is what our team learned from testing these 10 pairs and from the experiences shared by hundreds of skaters in online forums.

Understanding Boot Stiffness

Boot stiffness is the single most important factor in choosing figure skates. Manufacturers rate stiffness on a scale, and the right rating depends on your skill level and body weight. A boot that is too soft will break down fast and fail to support your ankles during jumps. A boot that is too stiff will feel painful and prevent you from bending your knees properly.

For beginners, look for support ratings between 20 and 40. These provide enough rigidity to hold your ankle upright while still allowing the forward flex needed for basic skating. Intermediate skaters working on single jumps and spins should target ratings between 40 and 60. Advanced skaters doing double jumps and complex choreography need ratings above 60.

Adult skaters should note that body weight affects how quickly a boot breaks down. A skate rated for beginners may work fine for a 120-pound skater but compress and lose support within weeks for someone who weighs 180 pounds. When in doubt, go slightly stiffer if you are on the heavier side.

Getting the Right Fit

Figure skates should fit tighter than street shoes. Most brands recommend sizing down one to two sizes from your regular shoe size. Your toes should just barely touch the front of the boot when you stand up straight, and there should be no heel lift when you walk. Jackson boots tend to run wider and fit best for normal to wide feet. Riedell boots have a slightly narrower profile that works well for narrow to normal feet.

Always measure your foot while wearing the socks you plan to skate in. Thin skating socks or tights are standard. Thick winter socks add bulk and reduce the precision of your fit, which affects your control on the ice. If you are between sizes, choose the smaller size because the boot will pack out slightly over time.

The Reddit skating communities consistently recommend getting fitted at a pro shop when possible. A professional fitter can assess your foot shape, arch height, and ankle flexibility to recommend the best brand and size for your specific needs. If you must order online, carefully follow each brand’s size chart and read reviews about fit from people with similar foot shapes.

Blade Basics

Most beginner and intermediate skates come with factory-mounted blades. The quality of these blades varies significantly. Jackson’s Mark I blade is a solid beginner blade, while the Mark II on the Excel model offers slightly better edge performance. Riedell’s spiral stainless steel blades are smooth and reliable for recreational skating.

Factory sharpening quality is inconsistent across all brands. Many skaters in forums recommend having your new skates sharpened by a pro shop before the first use, even if the manufacturer claims they arrive sharpened. A proper sharpening sets the hollow radius to match your weight and skating style, which makes a noticeable difference in how the blades feel on the ice.

Higher-end skates like the Jackson Mystique use screw-mounted blades instead of rivets, which means you can adjust the blade position or upgrade to a better blade later. This is worth considering if you plan to stick with figure skating long-term, because blade upgrades are a cost-effective way to improve performance without buying entirely new boots.

Brand Comparison at a Glance

Jackson Ultima dominates the beginner and intermediate market with the widest range of models and sizes. Their boots tend to fit wider feet better and offer good value across all price points. Riedell brings premium construction and innovative features like 3M Thinsulate insulation to the recreational market, with a fit profile that favors narrower feet. Both brands are trusted by coaches and pro shops, and you cannot go wrong with either one as a beginner.

For a quick decision: if you have wide feet and want the most options, go with Jackson. If you have narrow feet and value comfort features like insulation, Riedell is your best bet. Rollerblade offers strong value with true-to-size fit and unique styling. American Athletic and 5th Element serve the ultra-budget segment for casual skaters who just want something better than rentals.

FAQs

Final Thoughts on the Best Ice Skates for Figure Skating

After testing 10 pairs of figure skates across multiple skill levels and conditions, a few clear winners emerged. The Jackson Classic 200 remains our top overall pick for beginners because it nails the balance of ankle support, comfort, and value that new skaters need. The Riedell Soar is the clear choice for anyone who skates in cold conditions and wants the warmest, most comfortable interior available.

For skaters ready to advance beyond basics, the Jackson Ultima Mystique provides the leather construction and chrome blade quality that supports progression through Freestyle levels. And for pure value, the American Athletic Tricot Lined delivers a legitimate skating experience that is miles ahead of rental skates.

The best ice skates for figure skating are the ones that match your current skill level, fit your feet properly, and support the goals you have for your skating. Start with an honest assessment of where you are today, not where you hope to be in a year, and invest accordingly. You can always upgrade as your skills grow. The important thing is to get off those rental skates and into a pair that actually supports your progress on the ice.