Frequently Asked Questions
Equipment List
Which practice session is right for me?
Skate Sharpening
more questions? contact Vancouver Speed Skating Club
Equipment List
Some of our members own their own skates, beginners and juiors generally rent them from the club for the season. Our rental fee is cheap but there is a security deposit required!
Speed skating can be dangerous activity if proper precautions are not taken. Skaters are expected to wear proper protective equipment at all times on the ice.
- helmet - this can be a ’proper’ speed-skating helmet; but beginners may want to start with an existing bicycle or ski/snowboarding helmet.
- neck guard - with bib front.
- shin guards - soccer pads are ideal
- gloves - these should be proper speed-skating gloves or other tough gloves such as gardening gloves. Knitted woollen or cotton gloves do not provide sufficient protection from skate blades.
Top of Page...
Which practice session is right for me?
The Wednesday and Sunday practices are open to all members. Our two hour ice time is currently split into two groups.
- The early group is for kids and absolute beginners. Adults trying out speed skating for the first time will skate at this time, but seperately from the kids. The coach conducting the practice will tell them when they are ready to go up to the next group.
- The second group is for competent adults and fast kids.
Top of Page...
Skate Sharpening
Speed-skates are very different to hockey skates in their construction and care. DO NOT sharpen them as you would a hockey skate. Full instructions are included here: "Skate Sharpening Instructions". Big thanks to the VSSC coaches for composing this excellent document.
