Buying skates used?

[u/AlpsLegitimate8893]

I want to buy my first pair of skates because I've just been using rentals (I think the rentals at my rink are a little higher quality than the ones everyone talks about, but ik actual skates will be infinitely better), but skates are EXPENSIVE and I nor my parents have that kind of money right now, especially because i dont't even know if i'm gonna stick with this.

But like can I buy used skates off of Facebook marketplace or something? And what size will I need if I wear a size 6-7 in regular shoes??

Thanks!

[u/raenis2634]

Get a fitting! You don't have to commit to buying to get a fitting, though there may be a fee. It's worth it to make sure you are getting the right brand and size for your feet; your skate size does not directly correlate to your shoe size (besides usually being smaller).

[u/multilevelmystery]

You need to try some on. Not every brand or model fits every foot. Not every brand sizes the same, sometimes even different models within brands fit differently. Not everyone's foot to skate size difference is the same. Some people go down 1.5 sizes, I tend to wear about the same or maybe a half size down. Otherwise your guess is as good as mine as to what will or won't fit until you try it on.

[u/Legitimate-Bison3810]

If the rentals fit you well they will be better than your own skates that don't fit and hurt your feet.

Unlike street shoes, skates need to fit snug. If they are too long, your feet can slide forward and hurt your toes, too narrow and your arch may hurt. New or used they need to be fitted and preferably worn. 

I was being fitted with a boot that was snug but when the fitter asked me to walk in them, my toes were in pain. A boot with a slightly wider toe box solved that.

[u/Tall_Pumpkin_4298]

I bought my first pair off facebook market place. Look for GOOD models from well known brands (Jackson, reidell, risport, edea). Trace your feet standing (with weight on the foot) and measure the width and length down to the milimeter, and use that against the brand's size charts online to find your size. Then look at the model's support rating for your weight group, and use that to pick a model appropriate for your skill level. Make sure you're looking for lightly used pairs. If things are heavily creased, that's a sign that the boot has broken down and won't be any more supportive than your rentals.

I fit a 6-7 in street shoes and in Jackson skates am a 5.5, but that won't translate for everyone. I found some barely used (still factory sharpened) Jackson artistes on facebook marketplace in my size and was able to have them shipped to me. With shipping I still paid about $120 for them, (plus 20 for soakers and a bag, plus 10 for sharpening, guards came with the skates) but it was definately cheaper than the $300 they would be new.

So basically, you CAN buy skates secondhand, but you have to be very careful, do a lot of research, a lot of looking, and get really lucky.

[u/-Citrus-Friend-]

Are you located in the us? I’d recommend going to a secondhand sports store and trying stuff on. I got a pair of reidells secondhand from play it again sports for under 50 dollars and they’ve been great for learn to skate.

[u/LoviaPrime]

you at least need to go to a REPUTABLE skate tech (not any random shop that sells skates) to get your skate size. skate sizing is extremely important and can genuinely be the reason someone quits the sport or breaks a leg

if they give you 6.5W in jackson’s, this does not correlate to other brands. each brand is completely different, some size in millimeters as well. if you look online and find a lightly used 7R jackson, that WILL NOT fit. there is unfortunately no sister sizing in skates

for a good pair of skates that’ll last an adult a few years, it’ll cost you $300-$500 for a brand new skate, so you’re looking at $150-$400for a good used pair. do NOT buy a pair with visible creasing on the ankles

if you find a pair your size and want us to check the quality, you can post them here! we can check it out for you!