Heat Molding for a Better Fit

[johnallocca]

From the Riedell Website: http://ice.riedellskates.com/learn/fitting/

Heat Molding for a Better Fit

If there is one thing almost every figure skater can relate to, it's the period right after you purchase a new pair of boots—the "break-in period!" Every pair of Riedell boots is manufactured with the finest materials and components that allow the skate to conform and shape to the exact form of your foot. And remember, as you continue to skate, the more quickly your boots will continue to mold to meet your foot's unique shape. To get the most out of your boots, have them sized, prepared and heat molded by a trained Authorized Riedell Dealer for minimum break-in. This 10-step process ensures maximum heat activation of boots for effective skate fitting.

1. Have a trained Riedell skate fitter measure your feet.

2. Skate oven should be preheated to between 165-180˚F.

3. Skates should be heated in oven for 4-7 minutes. Medium temper boots will need to be heated for a shorter time of 4-6 minutes. Firm and extra-firm temper boots will need to be heated 5-7 minutes.

4. Remove boots from skate oven and flex heel counters open so foot can easily be placed in skate.

5. Place foot in boot and lightly tap heel of foot back into heel cup of the boot. Lace the boot up with firm, snug tension on the laces starting at the throat area over the top of the toes. Maintain the same lacing tension to the top of skate. You can stand and put pressure on skates, but do not walk in the skates if blades are not attached.
6. Leave skates on for approximately 10 minutes. This will allow skates to shape and contour to your foot.

7. Remove skates and let your feet and skates relax for several minutes. Put skates back on and lace up with normal, comfortable lacing pressure.

8. If discomfort or specific pressure points exist, heat area of boot with heat gun and adjust boot with boot press or shoe stretcher as needed.

9. Re-fit skates using normal lacing pressure.

10. Hit the ice!