So after everything I've done to help my daughter with her current skates, the ones she has are just not cutting it. I can't tie the top hook or they cut into her legs above the ankle bone, even with the gels/athletic tape.
She went from soft (stiffness 20) reidell skates to jackson freestyle (40 rating?) freestyles which maybe my mistake with the big jump in stiffness. However, the soft skates are just too soft and loosen up in minutes. Both pairs are the same size (length) but she says the reidells pinch her toes and she likes the stiffer skates because she can do more.
I've found reidell f21 and 33 models on clearance (not wanting to invest hundreds at this point) in her size but wide width. Both are a step down in stiffness but better than her original pair. I'm wondering if either may work. There's also the 29ts.....
I'm going to be honest, I have jackson artistes so I can take her to Public skate, and they cut my ankles too and I agree with the notion they are glorified rec skates. I'm not dumping $150 into them for my kid.
I know everyone is going to tell me to find a fitter, so if anyone knows someone near Philadelphia/southern NJ, let me know.
Oh and she's still basic skills, she's all over the map though with what skills she can do (most forward skating skills for example).
I'd suggest the Jackson Elle if she is happier with the fit of the freestyles than her prior riedells. The Elle is a softer boot than the freestyle but not lower quality like the artiste/classique and such are. My daughter complained of pinched toes even in wide width riedells, but she has been comfortable in Jacksons - her only complaint ever was a spot on one ankle that we had punched out.
I will look into that style! Is the Elle heat moldable?
Yes it is :)
I believe there is a Jackson fitter at the Philadelphia Skating Club and Humane Society rink in Ardmore, PA.
Love their hours - m-th 9 to 5... I'll have to call and see if they will fit on a Saturday.