I actually have two questions, but I don't know how to separate them so they're not rather redundant...
1. Does one blade size go with one boot size? I have new boots in the same length, same width, same brand, but I only just noticed today that the blades are 1/4" shorter! Does that matter? I don't have any trouble with them (so far).
2. Can old guards used on previous blades still fit on new blades that have a slightly different size? As in, since the length is different, the position of the rocker and the curvature along the length of the blade would be slightly different too, right?
I have the Guarddog two-piece skate guards, and with my old blade (10"), I did not have to cut any bit off, I needed the longest it could be. But now on my new 9+3/4" blade, it only loosely fits. I can feel it wobbling as I walk around. Does anyone have the manual and know if it is necessary to cut a bit off for this blade size? I never thought I'd need to do anything with them again and chuck out the manual.
I don't know if it's a length problem though, or a curvature problem like aforementioned, because the guard doesn't fall off the end, it sort of rocks like a boat (but lengthwise). The guards may have conformed to the shape of the previous blade? Any advice please?
Quote1. Does one blade size go with one boot size?
Not necessarily. Some fitters/skaters prefer blades mounted flush toe to heel, some fit blades 1/4 shorter than the toe to heel length. Much shorter than 1/4 (or too long) and the rocker etc will be in the wrong place making things harder for the skater.
Quote2. guards
Guardog guard instructions (http://www.guardog.ca/instructions.html). It just sounds like they are just a bit too long now and need trimmed!
Thank you taka!! That was extremely helpful!!